We have successfully been integrating volunteers from all over the world (Germany, Austria, USA, Canada, Italy, etc.) into our organization for more than 10 years. We truly believe that everyone benefits from the intercultural exchange: Interns, YB and our kids.
We are always looking for soccer coaches, teachers and marketing experts. But at Young Bafana you’ll not be limited to one area. You’ll get insights into the entirety of our NGO.
You want to actively support the YBSA and get to know South Africa? Go for it! In case of questions, please contact bernd@youngbafana.com.
Fill out the application form.
If there is a fit regarding timing and skills, we will reach out to you by mail in order to arrange a get-to-know call.
You’ll have the time of your life in South Africa!
Young Bafana is a non-profit soccer academy based in Lwandle, Somerset West (South Africa). The organisation combines professional football training, education, and social support to create long-term opportunities for children and young adults. The mission: Changing Lives through sport, consistency, and mentorship.
Interns can work in three main areas:
Coaching (U12–U18, social teams, individual sessions)
Education & Projects (English lessons, workshops, life skills)
Marketing & Sponsorship (content creation, research, presentations)
Interns often support across multiple areas depending on their strengths.
A typical day includes:
Morning: preparing training sessions, documentation, marketing tasks
Afternoon: coaching sessions (4x per week), English classes, team meetings
Weekends: matches or tournaments
Interns also help prepare food for players and take photos/videos for social media. Free days can be taken to explore South Africa.
No. Coaching experience is helpful but not required.
What matters most is motivation, reliability, and willingness to learn. YB coaches will guide and support you throughout your stay.
These qualities help you contribute positively to both football and education activities.
Yes.
Interns stay in the YB Intern House in Somerset West:
3 bedrooms
Bathroom + extra toilet
Kitchen & living room
Small front yard and community pool
Cost: 350 € + electricity & Wi-Fi.
Most interns stay 8–12 weeks, but many choose 3–6 months for deeper experience and impact.
For stays beyond 90 days, a visa extension is required.
Interns contribute directly to:
Professional and structured training sessions
Improved education through English classes
Mentorship and role-modelling for players
Interns are an essential part of YB’s motto: Changing Lives.
Sponsorship helps fund:
Coaching staff
Education programs
Equipment and kits
Meals and nutrition
Transport
Maintenance of the YB Arena
Every contribution has a direct social impact.
Yes.
You can support an individual player, a full team, or join the Young Bafana Family Club.
The Family Club is available in Germany and Switzerland, allowing supporters to contribute monthly and directly fund training, education, equipment, and long-term opportunities for the children.
If you would like to sponsor, join the Family Club, or support in another way, you can contact us anytime — we’re happy to guide you.
Young Bafana is registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC) in South Africa and ensures full transparency through:
Regular updates and communication to sponsors
Clear reporting and documentation
Close oversight by local coaches and international management
Strong governance and internal structures
Young Bafana provides:
Access to high-quality football training
English lessons and academic support
Safe spaces, mentorship, and positive role models
Long-term personal development
Strong social mobility for families in Lwandle
The academy helps children and teenagers build confidence, discipline, community, and future opportunities.
Young Bafana supports around 250 children across teams, education programs, and community initiatives.
You can apply directly via email: fabian@youngbafana.com
Send us your preferred dates, a short motivation, and your CV (for internships).
For sponsorship or Family Club inquiries, write to the same address — we’ll guide you through the next steps.