Visual culture plays a significant role in shaping youth identity, particularly in contexts of social diversity such as South Africa. This study aims to explore how visual representations influence and define young people's sense of self within their cultural milieu. This study employs a mixed methods design, combining thematic content analysis of visual materials from popular social media platforms with structured interviews using standardised questionnaires. The sample includes a diverse group of urban and rural youth across various socioeconomic backgrounds. Findings indicate that exposure to globalized imagery significantly impacts the self-perception and cultural identity of young South Africans, particularly in terms of their engagement with digital culture and traditional art forms. The mixed methods approach reveals nuanced insights into how visual culture shapes youth identity, offering a comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted influence on social cohesion and individual expression. Recommendation for educators includes integrating visual arts education that reflects the diverse cultural heritage of South Africa to foster inclusive identity development among students. Policy recommendations focus on promoting digital literacy programmes that support critical engagement with online content.