As young South Africans face stubbornly high unemployment and a rising cost of living, a new youth‑first mobile platform is stepping up with value‑driven bundles, creator challenges and campus programmes to help youth stretch every rand and stay connected to opportunity.
Youth unemployment remains among the highest in the world, while essentials like food, transport and electricity are taking a bigger share of young people’s limited income. The platform is evolving beyond connectivity to become a practical toolkit for getting through the month, building skills and turning data into income and real‑world progress.
“Since launch, young people have told us the same story in different ways: data is how they hustle, study and apply, but it’s also one of the first things they cut when money runs out,” said Gugu Mthembu, Chief Marketing Officer. “We’re responding with offers and experiences that recognise the reality of youth unemployment and the cost‑of‑living crisis, and that turn every gig of data into a chance to learn, earn or move forward.”
Content creator and Plug’d partner Lasizwe added, “Right now, most of us are counting every rand, but we still need to be online to chase opportunities, study, create and stay connected. For me, Plug’d is about making that possible, giving young people data that actually fits how we live, and turning our screens into a place where side hustles, ideas and dreams can grow.”
New moves for 2026
- “Make It to Month‑End” value packs that match real youth routines, from late‑night grind sessions and exam prep to weekend streaming, helping young people manage spend in a tough economy.
- Side‑hustle and skills challenges that reward members with data, vouchers and exposure for using connectivity to build side hustles, portfolios and community projects.
- Campus and youth‑hub activations offering CV clinics, content‑creation labs and financial‑literacy sessions in partnership with organisations tackling youth unemployment.
- Load‑shedding‑friendly offers that make it easier to stay online and productive when power is unreliable.
Plug’d is a free‑to‑join youth‑only space for 18–24‑year‑olds, accessed via the MyTelkom App, www.telkom.co.za/plugd or by dialling *180#, where members unlock tailored bundles, curated content and experiences that live in their group chats, on campus and at culture‑defining moments.
“Connectivity on its own isn’t enough anymore,” Mthembu added. “What counts is what that connection enables, CVs sent, side hustles launched, classes joined and communities found, especially in a country where youth unemployment and the cost of living shape every decision young people make.”
To join Plug’d or learn more, young South Africans aged 18–24 can visit www.telkom.co.za/plugd, download the MyTelkom App or dial *180# from a Telkom SIM. If you’re ready to turn your data into direction, from side hustles and studies to real‑world opportunities, plug in now, share your journey with #PlugdByTelkom and be part of the youth movement shaping South Africa’s next chapter.
