The Y20 South Africa Summit 2025, held in Johannesburg from 18–22 August, was a landmark event, the first-ever Y20 convened on African soil under the banner of G20 South Africa 2025. As the official youth engagement group of the G20, the Y20 gives young leaders a direct voice in shaping global policy. This year, Agbiz was honoured to take part in the conversations that not only elevated youth perspectives but also underlined Africa’s pivotal role in global governance.

South Africa’s hosting of the Y20 was far more than symbolic. It represented an opportunity to amplify African youth voices, create frameworks for sustained engagement, and demonstrate how youth leadership can influence the highest levels of global decision-making. The summit brought together delegates from all G20 nations to negotiate the Y20 Final Communiqué, a document handed over to G20 leaders, shaping priorities around climate action, digital transformation, economic growth, social inclusion, and multilateral reform.

The Gauteng Premier’s Office opened the summit with a powerful message affirming the central role of young people in shaping both our national trajectory and the global agenda. This spirit of inclusion and determination carried through every panel, town hall, and negotiation session of the week.

The summit was defined by dynamic panels, critical debates, and negotiations as youth leaders worked tirelessly to forge consensus on key issues.

Rewriting the Rules: Youth Ecosystems Powering Inclusive Economic Growth 

This session explored how youth-led ecosystems are reshaping economies through innovation, education, partnerships, and entrepreneurship. Delegates emphasised that young people are not just beneficiaries of policy but active drivers of inclusive growth.

#TaxTheSuperRich: Africa’s Call for Justice, Equity, and Global Accountability 

Hosted by Oxfam South Africa, this panel focused on fairer global taxation systems, highlighting how progressive fiscal policies could unlock resources for sustainable development. Delegates called for accountability and equity at the heart of the G20 agenda.

Pathways that Work: Youth Solutions for Inclusive Economic Development & Employment 

Anchored by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), this discussion highlighted practical solutions to unemployment, emphasizing entrepreneurship, innovation, and targeted youth policies to ensure inclusive economic growth.

Town Hall & Open Mic Sessions 

Beyond policy debates, the Y20 created inclusive spaces for reflection, dialogue, and creativity. These sessions reinforced the message that youth voices are not symbolic but integral to decision-making processes.

Intensive Negotiations 

From afternoon sessions into late-night hours, delegates engaged in rigorous debates to shape the Y20 Final Communiqué. The collaborative spirit demonstrated the seriousness with which youth leaders approached their role in guiding global priorities.

For Agbiz, participation in the Y20 Summit reaffirmed the importance of youth inclusion in agricultural and economic policymaking. Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most globally competitive sectors, but it faces evolving challenges from climate change, geopolitical uncertainty, and shifting trade landscapes. Addressing these issues requires fresh thinking, innovation, and youth-driven solutions.

By engaging with platforms such as Y20, Agbiz ensures that the voices of young leaders, including those invested in agribusiness and food systems are heard in global dialogues. These conversations are crucial in highlighting the role of agriculture in economic growth, sustainability, and food security, both in South Africa and across the African continent.

As H.E. Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka reminded delegates during the summit:

“Final G20 resolutions should reflect the Y20 Final Communiqué, not only to affirm young voices, but to ensure their full participation now and beyond in shaping global policy.”

This call to action underscores the responsibility of governments, business leaders to create enabling environments for youth to thrive as decision-makers, innovators, and partners in development.

The Y20 South Africa 2025 Summit has proven that young leaders are ready to take on this responsibility. Their ideas, energy, and resilience will continue to inspire the global community.

By Temba Msiza