Publicis Groupe Africa Launches Youth Digital Skills CSI Pilot

Publicis Groupe Africa launches CSI pilot programme with Soma Foundation to equip unemployed youth with future-ready digital skills

Publicis Groupe Africa (PGA), in partnership with the Soma Foundation, has launched a corporate social investment (CSI) pilot programme aimed at equipping unemployed youth with practical, future-ready digital skills. The initiative introduces young people to critical technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and coding, positioning them for meaningful participation in the digital economy.

The three-month pilot programme, launched in late 2025, was hosted at the Riversand Incubation Hub in Fourways, Johannesburg. It targeted unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 26, with 24 participants enrolled in the inaugural cohort. Designed as an intensive learning experience, the programme blended classroom-based instruction with hands-on practical work, mentorship, and career coaching.

Participants were exposed to a comprehensive curriculum covering coding and robotics, software development, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) within the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) context, digital technologies, 3D printing, and entrepreneurship training. This holistic approach ensured that learners not only developed technical capabilities but also gained insight into how digital skills translate into real-world, income-generating opportunities.

Speaking on the importance of early and intentional skills development, Publicis Groupe Africa CEO Koo Govender highlighted the programme’s broader purpose.

“For Africa to compete meaningfully in a technology-driven global economy, we have to start earlier and be intentional about skills development. This programme is about creating access – giving young people the opportunity to build relevant skills, confidence and pathways into the digital economy.”

she said

The programme was delivered by the Soma Foundation, which partnered with Ginini Consulting, an award-winning technology company specialising in technical training and practical delivery. Publicis Groupe Africa oversaw the initiative, providing strategic leadership and contributing its creative and industry expertise. Throughout the programme, PGA executives engaged directly with participants, offering mentorship, motivation, and insights into career pathways within the creative, marketing, and digital sectors.

Neo Selwe, Chief Talent Officer at Publicis Groupe Africa, emphasised that the initiative aligns closely with the Groupe’s long-term commitment to talent sustainability.

“Youth unemployment requires the immediate and collective attention of all stakeholders across both the public and private sectors, as the current trajectory is unsustainable. By equipping young people with relevant, in-demand digital capabilities, we are improving their employability while helping to close systemic skills gaps and build a future-ready talent pipeline for the industry and the economy.”

Selwe noted

For the Soma Foundation, the partnership represents a natural extension of its mission to drive sustainable social change by unlocking human potential. Founder Zintle Tshem underscored the importance of empowerment through skills development.

“Empowered people build stronger communities. This programme equips young people with practical skills and the confidence to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. When individuals are given the right tools and support, sustainable change becomes possible.”

she said

Following the positive outcomes of the pilot programme, Publicis Groupe Africa and the Soma Foundation have already recruited participants for the next cohort in 2026. Plans are also underway to expand the initiative to Durban and Cape Town, with an increased focus on AI-driven training and advanced digital competencies.

The pilot marks an important first step in a longer-term commitment by both organisations to making future-focused skills more accessible to young people. By investing in digital education and employability, the initiative contributes to building stronger, more economically resilient communities while preparing the next generation for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world.