Johannesburg is the best place for young people in Africa. This much was confirmed by the 2015 Youthful Cities Index, which recently found Joburg to be the most popular city in Africa overall for young people aged between 15 and 29. The accolade comes as the City celebrates Youth Month.
The index is compiled by Youthful Cities, a Canadian-based organisation that collects data through a survey conducted among 10 000 youths between the ages of 15 and 29 throughout the globe. In its second year, the index surveyed youths in 55 world cities, with New York taking pole position, followed by London, Berlin and San Francisco in second, third and fourth positions respectively.
Johannesburg was ranked the best African city for the youth, ranking highly particularly in terms of diversity, fashion and public space. Overall, Johannesburg ranked 35th on the list of 55 surveyed world cities. Ratings are based on 20 key attributes, including economic status, employment opportunities, digital access, culture and affordability.
By winning the African category of the most-sought after award, Johannesburg beat several thriving, exotic and tourist-popular cities such as Lagos in Nigeria, Casablanca in Morocco and Nairobi in Kenya.
“This is a perfect way for Johannesburg to celebrate its status as a youthful city, a city with a youthful population that contributes to its vibe and diversity,” says Johannesburg Tourism’s Laura Vercueil.
Being a relatively young city, at just 129 years old, Johannesburg’s appeal as a mecca of opportunities has made it a vibey cultural melting pot, one that has uniquely shaped the city into the continent’s ultimate alpha attraction. With an unlimited array of cultural, historical, social, entertainment and shopping opportunities and offerings, Johannesburg’s boundless energy has caught the attention of the international community and local residents alike.
Bursting with youthful exuberance and ingenuity, Johannesburg has several cultural and historical attractions that cater for all ages and interests.
Iconic attractions include Vilakazi Street in Orlando West, Soweto; the Maboneng Precinct on the eastern side of the city; Wits Origins Centre; Gold Reef City, Apartheid Museum, Liliesleaf Farm, and Sophiatown Cultural Centre to mention a few.
Top attractions for children in and around Johannesburg include the Sci-Bono Centre in Newtown, Wits Planetarium, Johannesburg Zoo, Montecasino Bird Gardens in Fourways, Lipizzaners in Kyalami and Johannesburg Youth Theatre in Parktown.
