Independent Youth Press (IYP), a newly formed non-profit organisation, is aiming to empower high school pupils through the art of journalistic storytelling.
IYP was founded in February by Khulani Mhlophe from Masiphumelele, Michela Collett from Glencairn, and Dylan James from Welcome Glen.
One of the founding directors, Mr James, said the organisation partners with schools to establish press clubs that meet twice a week - one session focused on skills training and the other on editorial work.
“This model is designed to be low-administration for schools, where a designated teacher champion acts as a mentor and safety check, while our editors handle technical verification and publishing,” he said.
Mr James explained that pupils are given the freedom to propose story ideas through the teacher champion. Once approved, the articles are published on the IYP website, allowing students to build a credible and verifiable portfolio of work.
He added that IYP provides software solutions for participating schools, including individual Google Workspace accounts for each club member.
“Through this, members can draft articles, communicate with the editorial team, and access technical support, as well as guidance from the Teacher Champion,” he said.
In addition, IYP plans to introduce an AI-powered research and note-taking assistant. This tool will allow users to work with a chatbot grounded in their own uploaded materials, such as PDFs, Google Docs, websites, and audio files.
Currently operating remotely, the organisation is in its rollout phase and is in the process of signing Memorandums of Understanding with schools. More schools are encouraged to get involved.
IYP is also running a fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for devices, data, and equipment for schools, as well as to support editors, technical services, and the continued development of its pupil news platform.
For more information, visit their website, email hello@independentyouthpress.org.za, or call 066 206 2109.
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