In a nation where faith traditions run deep and religious identity often shapes community belonging, South Africa’s non-religious young people face a distinct set of challenges that extend far beyond simple theological disagreements. From family tensions to social isolation, these youth navigate a complex landscape where their worldview can put them at odds with deeply entrenched cultural expectations.
According to Boston University’s 2020 World Religion Database, approximately 6 percent of South Africa’s population is atheist or agnostic, yet their voices often remain hidden beneath the surface of a predominantly religious society.
The Weight of Family Expectations
For many non-religious youth in South Africa, the journey begins at home, where religious observance is often woven into the fabric of family life. As Nosipho, a 39-year-old black South African woman explains, “I grew up having to compulsorily attend church. I therefore became aware of ‘Jesus the Saviour’ early in my life and of course the promise of heaven through Jesus and Hell if you reject him.”
The situation becomes particularly fraught when young people begin questioning these beliefs. Many non-religious youth find themselves caught between their authentic beliefs and family expectations.
Nosipho reveals the delicate balance required: “Only a few of my close family members in the younger generation know. My mother and sister do not know nor my grandma who is now old. I have not informed most of my family.” This secrecy creates a profound sense of isolation during already challenging formative years.
Cultural and Community Isolation
South Africa’s diverse religious landscape means that faith communities often serve as primary social networks. Churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues aren’t simply places of worship—they’re community centres where friendships form, business networks develop, and social support systems emerge. Non-religious youth frequently find themselves excluded from these vital social structures.
One agnostic South African shares on social media: “Most of the time I don’t tell people that I’m agnostic. South Africans in general are conservative and very superstitious. They immediately assume you are an evil psycho or something.” This fear of judgement forces many young people to maintain false personas, creating exhausting duplicity in their daily lives.
The exclusion can be particularly acute in smaller communities where religious institutions play central roles in social life. Young people may find themselves without access to youth groups, community events, or even informal social gatherings that revolve around religious calendars.
The Psychological Toll of Doubt and De-conversion
The emotional burden of being misunderstood, isolated, or criticised for one’s beliefs can take a toll on mental health. Non-religious youth may struggle with anxiety, depression, or identity conflict, particularly if they feel unable to speak openly or access support.
Unfortunately, many formal and informal support systems – from school counsellors to community mentors – are embedded in religious frameworks. While these can be beneficial for some, they may not feel safe or inclusive for a young person questioning or rejecting religion. This lack of secular support options can leave non-religious youth without the tools or allies they need to cope and thrive.
For many young South Africans, this journey involves not just rejecting Christianity but also questioning traditional African spiritual beliefs, creating a double layer of cultural disconnection.
Educational and Professional Challenges
Many of South Africa’s educational institutions maintain religious affiliations or incorporate faith-based teachings into their curricula. As one educator describes: “The school I’m working at right now is very religious (Christian) and all the praying and preaching” creates uncomfortable situations for non-religious staff and students alike.
The professional world can present similar challenges. In sectors where religious networks influence hiring and promotion, non-religious individuals may find themselves at a disadvantage. Business opportunities that emerge from religious community connections may remain inaccessible, creating subtle but significant barriers to career advancement.
The South African Secular Society (SASS) was approached by a Gr 10 learner from Cape Town, who described herself as “an atheist ex-Muslim who left Islam at the age of 12 due to bad experiences with it.” She stated that after doing research on Islam, she came to the realization that Islam is “a danger to me”. She said she’d had “terrible experiences” of abuse in Islamic schools. Her parents are traditional Muslims who expect her to “to follow every law in the Quran”. She appealed to SASS for advice and financial support for future tertiary studies.
Identity Formation without Religious Frameworks
Perhaps most significantly, non-religious youth in South Africa face the challenge of forming their identity without the frameworks that religion traditionally provides. Questions of purpose, morality, and meaning—typically addressed through religious teachings—must be navigated independently.
Young people may struggle to find role models or mentors who share their worldview, making it difficult to envision successful, fulfilling lives without religious faith. The absence of secular coming-of-age traditions or community ceremonies can leave non-religious youth feeling as though important life transitions lack proper recognition or celebration.
Finding Support and Community
Traditional counselling resources may be limited, as many therapeutic services in South Africa incorporate religious perspectives or operate within faith-based frameworks. Support groups for non-religious individuals remain rare, particularly outside major urban centres.
However, some young South Africans are finding ways to connect. Online communities provide some solace, though they cannot fully replace local, in-person support networks. Non-believers find comfort in reading about others’ experiences: they are able to discover stories of people who wrote about how they made sense of their existence after de-converting and those also who had never been religious.
Potential for Positive Change
Despite the challenges, some non-religious South Africans see potential benefits in their worldview. However, they also caution against militant atheism, objecting to the intolerant attitude of some atheists and their lack of tact in trying to win people over from being religious.
Finding Ways Forward
Despite these challenges, non-religious youth in South Africa are finding ways to build identity, resilience, and community. Online platforms and social media have become vital spaces for connection, offering forums where young people can explore secular philosophies, share their experiences, and find solidarity.
There is also a growing movement towards inclusive education and counselling that respects diverse belief systems, including non-religious perspectives. Humanist organisations and secular advocacy groups, though still few in number, are beginning to create resources tailored to the needs of non-religious individuals.
Ultimately, fostering a society that respects both religious and non-religious worldviews will benefit everyone. By promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and understanding, the South African Secular Society tries to create space for young people to grow into their authentic selves – whatever their beliefs may be.