Empowering Young People for Life, Leadership, and Service

The Soweto YMCA has been serving the Orlando and surrounding communities since 1963, contributing to South Africa's social, political, and economic development.

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A Home Away From Home

Providing a safe, supportive environment for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

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Discover our range of programs designed to nurture the potential of every child and adult.

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About YMCA Soweto

The Donaldson Orlando Community Centre (DOCC) was established on December 17, 1932, and was officially opened by the Honorable Earl of Clarendon PC (Governor General of the Union of South Africa) as a gift to the Orlando East League of Black Boys and Girls.

Since 1963, the Soweto YMCA has been the custodian and manager of the center. This Non-Profit Organization has been serving the Orlando and surrounding communities for years.

The Soweto YMCA has served as a Home Away from Home for many people in South Africa. The Soweto YMCA has contributed to South Africa's development socially, politically, and economically.

"UMUNTU NGUMUNTU NGABANTU...WE ARE WHO WE ARE BECAUSE OF OTHERS"

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Our Programs

At YMCA Soweto, we are committed to nurturing the potential of every individual. Our diverse programs are designed to empower youth, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility within the community.

Y-Zone

The Y-Zone program provides after-school care for kids aged 6-18 in a safe space where they are afforded an opportunity to grow in all areas of life.

Homework supervision in a fun and supportive environment
Sports, Life Skills, Arts, Music, and Dance activities
All programs are facilitated by trained young people.

Y-Arts

By appealing to youth through creativity and fun, Y-Arts has cutting-edge leadership development and life skills at its core.

Contributes directly to moral regeneration
A vehicle for wide-scale involvement of youth in communities
Offers alternative leisure-time activities to youth
Enables skills transfer amongst youth through the peer model
Prepares youth for life, career, and responsible citizenship
Community service at its core
Clear focus on gender and advocacy

Y-Justice

The Youth Justice Program reaches young people who are in conflict with the law, and young people whose social circumstances place them at a high risk of potential legal conflicts.

Transforming young people from subjects to citizens
Integrating youth justice issues into all signature programs
Advocating for and monitoring relevant legislation, policy, and human rights for young people.

Y-Fit

Y-Fit is a Health and Wellness income-generating program.

Y-Fit is a gym, offering a quality, Well-equipped gym facility to the local community.

Our Facilities

YMCA Soweto boasts modern, well-equipped facilities designed to support a wide range of programs and activities for our community.

Main Hall

Our spacious Main Hall is a versatile venue, perfect for large gatherings, community events, conferences, and celebrations. It can be configured to suit various needs, offering ample space and a welcoming atmosphere.

Accommodates up to 300 guests
Ideal for conferences, workshops, and events
Equipped with sound system and projector (on request)
Flexible seating arrangements

Domestic Room

The Domestic Room offers a cozy and intimate setting, suitable for smaller meetings, training sessions, or private consultations. It provides a quiet environment for focused work or discussions.

Capacity for up to 20 people
Suitable for small meetings and workshops
Comfortable and private setting
Whiteboard and flipchart available

Fully Equipped Gym

Our modern gymnasium provides a comprehensive range of fitness equipment, catering to all levels of training. It's the perfect place to achieve your health and wellness goals in a supportive environment.