South Africa’s drinking culture is strongly embedded in social and cultural practices, where alcohol is seen as a normal feature of gatherings, celebrations, and even day-to-day routines. The result is a widespread tolerance for binge drinking and heavy consumption.  Peer pressure, and the low cost and easy accessibility of drugs and alcohol in South Africa are increasing the risk factors of abuse among adolescents and young adults. According to the World Drug Report 2021 the population most at risk of using drugs, young people aged 15–34, is projected to grow in the next decade, in particular in low-income countries. The average age for drug dependency in South Africa is a staggering 12 with 50% of South African teens drinking alcohol. We speak to Founder, Triumphant Youth Projects, Thontsine Klaas.