World No Tobacco Day in South Africa was held in Kagiso Township, Gauteng, with a focus on the vulnerabilities children face amid the global tobacco epidemic. The event involved 86 children from five local primary schools—Oliphant, Mathlasedi, Schamburg, Athlolang, and Kid Maponya—who participated in a 3km march to raise awareness. During the event, children created posters promoting tobacco-free lifestyles and learned about how the tobacco industry targets them. The awareness campaign educated children about the tactics used by the tobacco industry, such as influencer marketing and creating products that appeal to kids, including cartoon-themed vapes and candy that mimics cigarettes. Y-ACT emphasized that children are especially susceptible to tobacco marketing due to their developmental stage. The event concluded with role-playing activities to teach refusal skills against tobacco use. Various stakeholders, including the Department of Basic Education and SANAC, recognized the project’s importance and expressed commitment to ongoing engagement.

On 31 May 2025, a targeted social media campaign was launched in South Africa to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, featuring a custom "Smoke Out" GIF and a striking poster aimed at exposing the tobacco industry's deceptive marketing tactics toward youth. The campaign, shared on Facebook and Instagram, reached a diverse audience, with Facebook garnering 269 views and strong engagement from non-followers. In comparison, Instagram received 78 views and engaged primarily with existing followers. This digital advocacy effectively raised awareness of the manipulation employed by the tobacco industry through creative visuals. Additionally, a petition regarding the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill was circulated to capture young people's perspectives on tobacco control in South Africa, demonstrating community interest in stronger public health measures. A community session organized by the Y-act subgrantee brought together residents of Thembisa township and learners from Phomolong Secondary School to discuss the harmful effects of tobacco and the industry's tactics aimed at youth. By facilitating dialogue and education, the initiative empowered participants to recognize and resist manipulative strategies, fostering a healthier community that prioritizes the well-being of young individuals.