South Africa, June 12 -- While their counterparts in lower income communities are unfortunately still mired in the unending battle for educational and job opportunities, the country's youth consumer class is largely well-educated or getting there, and 24% of them are already earning R20k per month or more. They are making smart decisions by choosing industries with growth potential, upskilling online, and leveraging digital tools to manage money, build personal brands, and work independently.

According to the latest BrandMapp survey, 77% of our youth consumer class are Black South Africans, reflecting gradual economic transformation. BrandMapp's director of Storytelling, Brandon de Kock says: "Too often, youth are seen only through the l...