SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IGNITES DREAMS AS IT LAUNCHES YOUTH SKILLS AND ARTS CENTRE

By Madali Chibambu.

• The Gauteng Department of Social Development launched the Ikusasalethu Youth Development Project and Arts Studio to offer unemployed youth training, mentorship, and support for creative and economic growth.
• Rehab Maokamedi, who was at risk of homelessness, thanked the free web design training project for giving her new hope.
• Celebrating Talent and Community Engagement, the Centre launched the “Ignite Your Dreams” Friday Night Sessions to highlight emerging artists in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. This initiative aims to promote collaboration, creativity, and networking among youth.

Despite facing homelessness, a Soweto woman found renewed hope through the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s funding of the Ikusasalethu Youth Development Project, which offered her free training in Web Design.
On Thursday, 28 August 2025, during the official launch of the Ikusasalethu Youth Development Project and Arts Studio in Braamfontein, Central Corridor, beneficiary Rehab Maokamedi expressed deep gratitude for the life-changing opportunity.
Having endured the loss of her parents and subsequent eviction by her uncle, Maokamedi now lives in a women’s shelter that provides her with a supportive environment and motivation to move forward.
According to Centre Manager, Mac Wayne, the project represents a significant milestone in the fight against youth unemployment.
“This is a special moment for our beneficiaries. The Centre aims to transform lives through mentoring, support, and encouragement, focusing on youth development and poverty alleviation,” said Wayne.
He further explained that the Centre will provide young artists and musicians with a platform to pursue their dreams, while also promoting creativity and diversity through art and music.
The launch also introduced “Ignite Your Dreams” Friday Night Sessions, designed to showcase young artists’ talents in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. These sessions are designed to celebrate creativity, encourage community engagement, and build a vibrant space for collaboration and networking.
“The initiative is not only about showcasing talent, but also about building connections, exchanging ideas, and creating meaningful relationships among passionate young people,” Wayne added.