Tsakani – A newly established disciplinary camp is giving children and young adults across Ekurhuleni a second chance by equipping them with discipline, life skills and a renewed sense of purpose.

Founded in 2026 by George ‘Uncle Billionaire’ Pholo, the camp was created after he identified a lack of similar programmes within the municipality.

Pholo said many parents were forced to travel to Pretoria and other cities to access disciplinary camps for their children.

“I realised there was no disciplinary camp in Ekurhuleni.

“Parents were struggling to find programmes nearby and had to travel long distances to get help for their children. That inspired me to establish one here in our community,” he said.

The camp aims to address behavioural challenges among children and youth while encouraging them to become responsible and productive members of society.

“Our goal is to help children become the best version of themselves. We want them to leave the camp with discipline, confidence and a positive attitude towards life.

“We also hope that, one day, former participants will return as motivational speakers to inspire others,” he said.

Participants take part in physically demanding activities designed to build resilience and teamwork, as well as counselling sessions and personal development programmes.

“The journey is not easy.

“We challenge participants through discipline, team-building exercises and counselling to help them grow mentally, emotionally and physically,” Pholo explained.

The camp caters for children and young adults aged 10 to 23. Among the core values taught are perseverance, gratitude, integrity and responsibility.

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Pholo said the programme also encourages learners to remain in school while assisting school dropouts and matriculants with planning their futures.

“We motivate learners to understand the importance of education.

“For young people who have completed matric or dropped out, we assist them with university and college applications, creating CVs, searching for learnerships and internships, and helping them identify employment opportunities,” he added.

He added that the initiative contributes to crime prevention by encouraging young people to volunteer in community projects and to focus on education, job hunting, and self-development rather than negative influences.

The camp works alongside SAPS and Plan Act facilitators, who assist with community outreach programmes, youth empowerment initiatives and public events.

Looking ahead, he hopes to expand the programme to accommodate adults aged 23 to 40, following requests from parents whose older children also need guidance.