EMPOWERING YOUTH: DSD HOSTS TWO-DAY PROGRAMME IN RUSTENBURG

By Justice Malapane

• Continuing Nelson Mandela’s legacy of prioritising the youth, the Department of Social Development is hosting a two-day programme in Rustenburg to empower young people through sports, arts, and culture.
• The programme will feature discussions on various vital topics, including business, entrepreneurship, physical and mental health, unemployment, substance abuse, crime, and gender-based violence prevention.
• Under the theme “Actively Embracing the Socio-Economic Gains of Our Democracy,” the programme aims to inspire youth participation in nation-building activities, culminating in sports events and motivational talks by notable personalities.

When President Nelson Mandela took office in 1994, he recognised the crucial need to nurture and invest in young people as the future leaders of South Africa. In his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), Mandela stated, “The youth of our country are the valued possession of the nation. Without them, there can be no future. Their needs are immense and urgent. They are at the centre of our reconstruction and development plan.”

Continuing this legacy, the Department of Social Development will host a two-day programme in Rustenburg, North West Province, to engage and empower young people through sports, arts, and culture as pathways for youth development. The programme will feature discussions on various topics aimed at empowering the youth, such as:

• Sports
• Business
• Entrepreneurship
• Physical and Mental Health
• Unemployment
• Substance Abuse
• Crime
• Gender-Based Violence Prevention
• Improved Education
• Academic Performance
• Economic Participation
• Solidarity
• Social Integration
• Social Cohesion
• Nation Building

These discussions are designed to inspire the youth to take an active role in South Africa’s commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy.

Under the theme “Actively Embracing the Socio-Economic Gains of Our Democracy,” the programme will conclude with various sporting activities to encourage youth participation in different sports. Additionally, the department has invited notable personalities such as: Zola 7, Ace Ncobo (PSL),  Dudu Busani-Dube (author), Dr Khumalo, Nasiphi Ntabeni (actress), and Obakeng Molekane (entrepreneur) to share their stories about the impact of sports, arts, and culture on youth development, aiming to inspire the attendees to pursue their passions and contribute positively to their communities.