TEEN AUTHOR OVERJOYED BY SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

By Precious Mupenzi

• Sixteen-year-old Mosimanegape Leeuw from Kuruman, Northern Cape, has been selected to attend the prestigious Best Diplomats Conference in Malaysia, joining global young leaders to discuss critical issues.
• Despite losing his parents at a young age and facing numerous challenges, Mosimanegape has thrived, becoming a prominent youth leader and publishing three poetry anthologies that address mental health and hope.
• The Northern Cape Department of Social Development and the Premier’s Office have generously supported his journey, covering his conference fees and flights, allowing him to focus on the opportunities ahead.

Sixteen-year-old Mosimanegape Leeuw, a promising young author from Kuruman, Northern Cape, has been selected as a delegate for the prestigious Best Diplomats Conference in Malaysia. From 18–21 July 2024, Leeuw will join hundreds of young leaders from around the world to discuss critical global issues.

Mosimanegape’s journey has not been an easy one. He lost his parents when he was just two years and six months old and is now under the care of his foster parent, Yolanda Slade. Despite these challenges, he has thrived and is currently attending boarding school. Overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement, Leeuw shared his feelings about this incredible opportunity.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement as I prepare to embark on this incredible journey to Malaysia for the Best Diplomats Conference,” he expressed. “I am deeply thankful to the Northern Cape Department of Social Development and the Premier’s Office for their generous support in making this trip possible. Their contributions towards my conference fee and flight expenses have alleviated a significant burden, allowing me to focus on the immense opportunities that this experience presents.”

Leadership is not new to Mosimanegape. At high school, he became the youngest Representative Council of Learners (RCL) President and is currently the Northern Cape RCL President. He also serves as the Public Relations Officer of the National Executive Committee of the RCL and is the Youth Chairperson of RaiseYourVoiceSA. Attending the Best Diplomats Conference will not only enrich him personally but also benefit South Africa, particularly in advancing discussions on water security, a cause he is deeply passionate about.

The frustration of not having secured airfare funding turned to joy when Mosimanegape attended the Youth Month Commemoration held at Rustenburg Kloof on 11-12 July 2024. The conference, organised by the Department of Social Development, brought together youth from across the country to commemorate and empower young people. The Department of Social Development generously covered the conference fees, including meals and accommodation. However, the costs of airfare were not included, and Leeuw was doing everything possible to raise the funds for the flights.

During this two-day session, Mr. Blessing Tshegofalo Mosimane, Manager responsible for Youth Development within the Northern Cape Department of Social Development, ensured that Mosimanegape’s story was highlighted. It was during this conference that the Northern Cape Premier, Dr. Zamani Saul, committed to paying for Leeuw’s flights. The Premier personally contacted the teen to deliver the good news, lifting a significant burden off his shoulders.

Mosimanegape has published three poetry anthologies through PUBLISH’D AFRIKA, a Mpumalanga-based publishing imprint. The poetry collections offer solace and motivation, guiding readers through the shadows of depression and anxiety towards a brighter future. His recently published work, titled “From Darkness to Light,” is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of hope. The launch of his book, “From Darkness to Light,” is set for August.

In celebration of Mandela Month, where we remember our icon and father of South Africa’s democracy who was passionate about children and youth participation, it is inspiring to see young leaders like Mosimanegape making strides. Nelson Mandela’s legacy in education and youth participation is profound, as he believed that “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Mandela tirelessly advocated for the empowerment of young people through education, understanding that the future of the nation rested in their hands. His commitment to nurturing and supporting the youth is evident in numerous initiatives and policies aimed at improving access to quality education and fostering youth leadership.

Mandela’s vision of a society where young people are given opportunities to thrive and lead is brought to life through the accomplishments of individuals like Mosimanegape. As we honour Mandela this month, we celebrate the ongoing impact of his legacy on our youth, who continue to drive change and shape a brighter future for South Africa. He welcomes any support from individuals or organisations interested in contributing towards the launch.