Christo Read
CEO, National Youth Development Outreach.
When musician and local resident Billy Paulson founded Youth Development Outreach as a coffee bar in the community of Eersterust in 1990, his vision was to offer young people a positive alternative to a life of drugs and gangsterism, and to inspire them to become responsible, productive citizens.
More than thirty years later, circumstances have sadly not improved for young people. Gangsterism and crime are rife. Poverty is pervasive and the youth unemployment rate is at record levels.
Billy’s vision is more relevant today than ever, and, although YDO has changed and developed over the years, and has grown beyond Eersterust to include the communities of Mamelodi, Bronkhortspruit and Cullinan, it has always remained true to its original vision: to create opportunities for young people to break free of the cycle of crime and poverty, to achieve their full potential and to become productive, responsible citizens.
I am humbled by the opportunity to be part of a team of dedicated professionals who are wholly committed to realising this important vision.
If you are a young person looking for support and direction in life, if you need a hand-up to make your way through the challenges of life, NYDO is for you. Come join our family. Our friendly and committed team are here to serve you.
