Before the 2024 General Election, a Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) survey revealed a concerning trend: 47% of young South Africans believed their vote would not make a difference. As the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) gears up for its final voter registration round on 1 and 2 August 2026, we must actively counter this disillusionment. We need to amplify messaging that reassures young people that participating in the democratic process will not break the country. Ultimately, it is far better to cast a vote and risk making a mistake than to abstain completely. Colleen Makhubele spoke to Noxolo Gwala - International Programme Officer at Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa, Goodenough Mashego – Independent Political Analyst and Lulu White - Election Management Consulting Agency of Africa.