South Africa is celebrating Youth Month with young leaders taking centre stage.
Modderfontein resident Lincoln Machaba is chairperson of the DA’s youth Johannesburg region and an industrial relations specialist in the aviation industry.
Lincoln realised he wanted to be a front-runner from a young age.
“My peers regularly chose me to be the spokesperson of the group in whatever trivial matter we were dealing with at the time.”
He said that was when he realised that his purpose was not only to speak for himself but to be the voice of other people who can’t speak for themselves.
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“The best part of being a leader is moving from being an armchair critic to being the man in the arena who sweats, stumbles and suffers defeat sometimes,” said Lincoln.
Every leadership role comes with hurdles and Lincoln spoke about his own challenges.
“Experience has taught me that leadership is not for the faint-hearted. My biggest challenge in youth leadership is the older generation not being supportive of their younger counterparts.”
He referred to more representation of the youth in parliament.
“I hope that the young MPs will advance the interests of the youth and not get distracted by factional politics. The youth should not be spectators while decisions that affect them are being taken,” said Lincoln, who was raised by a single mother and also has his sights set on being the first citizen of SA.
“My mother played a major role in the leader I am today because she is a great leader herself.”
His mother, Zodwa Silinda, taught her son to love and respect people.
Lincoln believes mentorship is critical for professional growth.
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During Lincoln’s spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife and son.
He advised aspiring young leaders to ensure leadership skills development by joining clubs such as the Modderfontein Toastmasters Club.
“This is where aspiring public speakers can sharpen their skills,” said Lincoln.
For more information on the club visit www.toastmasters.org
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