With a presence in 120 countries serving 64 million people, today we’re exploring the Y’s global impact. And when we work together, the impact is exponential. One such example is the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s partnership with YMCA South Africa. Today we are honored to welcome Marcus Van Wyk, CEO of YMCA South Africa to the (Y) Connect podcast. Marcus is a dynamic leader who has spent his career dedicated to social justice and youth development and who emphasizes that the overarching goal of both the South African Y and the US Ys remains the same: to provide a safe place and positively impact children's lives. IN THIS EPISODE: [1:43] Introduction to Marcus Van Wyk, CEO of the YMCA in South Africa. [3:44] Marcus describes his venture as CEO since 2022. [6:27] What are the differences and similarities between the YMCA US and the YMCA South Africa? [8:44] Marcus states how working with the Y Coalition is different from working with others coming from the West. [11:52] Marcus gives examples of programs and outreach done by the Y in South Africa, and he explains the effect that Covid has had in South Africa. [18:20] Marcus speaks to the nation’s history and the current social dynamics of South Africa, and he explains the most pressing issues facing young people. [23:30] Marcus discusses how people can get involved to help and what he sees for the future of the Y and South Africa. [28:27] Marcus shares heartfelt stories of Y’s impact and his thoughts on a partnership between the Y in South Africa and the Atlanta Hawks. KEY TAKEAWAYS: [6:01] The difference between YMCA South Africa and the YMCA US is that in the US, there is a swimming gym model that is reliant on membership to fund, and South Africa does not. The similarities are that both impact people's lives in a positive way. [8:36] Working with the Y Association/Coalition has been positive for the Y in South Africa because it is a true partnership with support to strengthen the capacity to deliver the mission. [11:47] Many Ys in South Africa focus on youth justice, student accommodations, hostels, wellness programs, training, and university partnerships. RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta Volunteer at the YMCA YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports South Africa YMCA - Website BIOGRAPHY: Marcus Van Wyk has a BA in Human Movement Studies and Psychology from the University of the Western Cape. Still, a deep sense of humanity has seen him engage in a myriad of societal sectors as he strives to apply his unique and varied skill set. Marcus boasts further qualifications in Educational Design Programming, Integrated Solid Waste Management Planning through the USA Environmental Protection Agency, Planning and Management of Special Events, Management Programme for NPOs, Project Planning, Corporate Social Investment Programmes, Diplomacy, Health and Safety and Labour Relations, amongst others. His most recent position is Chief Executive Officer of YMCA South Africa. Other positions were Executive Chairperson of Mthunzi Network NPC and the Chief Operating Officer for Youth for Christ South Africa. He has also served as Project Lead for the UNHCR Social Cohesion Project in SA, being Coordinator and co-founder of IAMAFRICA, which involves Ordinary People Transforming Africa, as well as Coordinator of the We Will Speak Out South Africa Coalition of faith communities working together to end Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. As a Consultant to the South African Council of Churches (SACC), Marcus provided protocol and logistical support for the 2013 State funeral of former President Nelson Mandela. He has also served as Advisor to the Chairman of the South Africa Dutch Chamber of Commerce. He has extensive interaction as a Relationship Manager for various enterprises, liaising with all three tiers of Government, Political Parties, Private Sector and Civil Society. His varied commitments have seen him facilitate Waste Management infrastructure for the 2010 Football World Cup in South Africa, from being the Liaison Officer for the State visit by the Indian Prime Minister to being a volunteer firefighter with the Table Mountain National Park. His extensive experience and networks make him ideally suited to engage across sectors and bring key role players together in search of mutually beneficial projects that have the advancement and betterment of communities at their heart.
