1873-1958
The Founding Years
Back in 1844, London was a city full of life but also grappling with significant social challenges. Young men moving from the countryside to the city in search of work found themselves living in overcrowded tenements, facing the harsh realities of urban life.
The history of YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay dates back to the early efforts of local community leaders committed to the development of young people. The Port Elizabeth Young Christian Association (PEYMCA) was formally established on 3rd September 1958, with Councillor I.E. Struan-Robertson, the former Mayor, playing a key role in its inauguration. Originally located at the Metropole Hotel, the PEYMCA’s mission has always been to unite young people, particularly young men, for their spiritual, mental, and social welfare.
Transitioning
The Port Elizabeth YMCA changed its name in 2010 to reflect its location and commitment to the Nelson Mandela Bay area. The name change recognised the region's cultural diversity, historical significance, and the desire to more closely align with the local community it serves. It also reflected a more inclusive approach to engaging with various communities in the Bay Area, promoting the values of justice, equity, and social change.
We believe in the power of young people to create positive change, and our work in local schools, as well as our youth-led programmes, provides the tools and resources necessary for young people to thrive. At YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay, we understand the importance of addressing health and education barriers to ensure all young people can thrive. Our Sanitary Towel Campaign provides young girls with essential sanitary towels, supporting their menstrual health and hygiene needs. By ensuring that girls can manage their periods safely and comfortably, the campaign contributes to increased.
2019-2025
YMCA NMB Today
YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay is a community-driven organisation dedicated to empowering young people for life, leadership, and service by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive, supporting their holistic development.
Situated in the Northern Areas of the Bay, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive space for youth to grow, learn, and lead. Our programmes are designed to meet the physical, mental, and emotional needs of young people, offering support in areas such as life skills development, health and wellness, and leadership training.
We are deeply invested in tackling critical social issues, with initiatives focusing on substance abuse prevention, gender-based violence awareness, and promoting social justice.
