YOUTH VOICES: INSIGHTS FROM THE LITERACY WORKSHOP

• Young attendees at a recent literacy workshop in West Rand share their thoughts on the event, highlighting its impact on their lives and the importance of storytelling, reading, and perseverance.
• Participants emphasised the empowering nature of the workshop, noting the valuable lessons learned about resilience and the significance of sharing information within their communities.
• The workshop provided a platform for youth to express their challenges and aspirations, fostering a sense of community support and motivation to pursue their dreams.

Excitement and inspiration filled the room at the recent literacy workshop in the West Rand, where young attendees gathered to share their thoughts on the event. Weekly Bulletin Reporter Lorato Modisenyane spoke to several participants to gather their reflections.

Tshepo Madonsela from Swaneville remarked, “The event was well thought out and exactly what we need as a youth. It serves as a reminder that we must never stop telling our stories, as they can motivate others. I plan to incorporate what I learned into my daily life by encouraging others to stay strong, read more, and always maintain a curious mind.”

Keitumetse Paledi from Randfontein found the session empowering and timely. “I think the event was amazing and very much needed as I am still figuring out my life. This session was empowering and eye-opening, emphasising the importance of reading. The timing was perfect, coinciding with Youth Month. A platform like this, where information is shared, is highly appreciated. I intend to share everything I learned today with my peers.”

Michelle Pretorius from Toekomsrus shared her newfound appreciation for reading and listening. “The event was an eye-opener for me. I learned that reading and listening are invaluable. As young people, we are valued, and there is a lot of support from the government, but many youths don’t know where to go or how to get the right information because they are too lazy to read. It was inspiring to hear authors’ testimonies about the challenges they face in pursuing their dreams.”

Samuel Moote from Kagiso praised the initiative. “The event is a good initiative by the Department. Many youths are at the point of giving up, so we needed motivation, especially from people we can relate to.”

Rebecca Ramorula from Kagiso found the event life-changing. “The event was a great idea; it boosted my self-esteem, which I had lost due to my circumstances. I come from a child-headed household, raising my kids and siblings. Life was very hard until I got the opportunity to work as a Data Capturer. Being here today and listening to all the speakers has motivated me a lot. I have learned that my circumstances should not define me. I will share what I learned with my siblings to encourage them to keep sight of their dreams and push until they achieve their goals.”

The workshop provided a vital platform for youth to express their challenges and aspirations, fostering a sense of community support and motivation to pursue their dreams. Through sharing stories and experiences, the event highlighted the importance of resilience, perseverance, and the power of reading and storytelling.