Young changemakers inspired at Embrace Symposium hosted by St Benedict’s

Leaders in their respective fields gathered at the 2025 Embrace Symposium, recently held at St Benedict’s College.

The occasion brought together educators, learners, and changemakers under the theme ‘Small ideas, big changes’.

The event focused on how small, intentional actions can lead to lasting transformation in education, social justice, and youth development across South Africa.

Speakers on the day included South Africa’s most celebrated political cartoonist, Zapiro (Jonathan Shapiro), known for using sharp satire to challenge power and promote social justice.

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His work has appeared in major publications for over three decades and continues to influence public discourse.

Another keynote speaker was Kass Naidoo, South Africa’s first female cricket commentator and the founder of Gsport4girls, a platform dedicated to uplifting women in sport.

The Symposium was initially established in 2019 by Deon Oerson during his time at St Benedict’s.

“I was head of campus wellness and part of the transformation and diversity committee in the independent schools sector.

“I saw a real need for like-minded individuals to collaborate and promote change through social justice in education,” said Oerson.

“It’s through meaningful conversations that we take small ideas back to our schools and make big changes.”

Now at Holy Rosary, Oerson remains passionate about the programme. “There’s still huge relevance for Embrace. These platforms help learners realise they are not just future leaders, they’re leaders right now.”

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He praised the team for a job well done.

The event had facilitated breakaways and workshop style discussions.

Naidoo, the trailblazing founder of Gsport4girls and South Africa’s first female cricket broadcaster, inspired the audience with her journey.

“Everyone has ideas. The challenge is having the courage to start. If you take small, consistent actions, you’ll create incredible impact.”

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Her organisation was born out of necessity.

“I was hosting a radio show in 2006 and realised every woman in sport I interviewed spoke of struggle.

“No one was telling the positive stories, so I quit my job, built a website, and created a platform for women in sport to thrive,” she shared.

Speaking to South African youth, she said, “Use your twenties to jump. Use your energy. Have a plan A, B, and C. And always back yourself. Patience and perseverance bring progress.

“Especially for women, we strive for perfection and don’t give ourselves space to fail. But we must fall off the bike, get up, and move forward.”

Naidoo offered this advice to aspiring changemakers: “Write a plan. Take daily action. Don’t just dream—act, even when it’s hard.”

Renowned political cartoonist Zapiro spoke about how his work intersects with themes of transformation, inclusivity, and diversity.

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“South Africa strives, not always successfully, to embrace those values. That’s what I try to amplify in my cartoons: small ideas that nudge people’s thinking and become part of a bigger social change.”

He noted how young people today face mounting pressures.

“Being a teenager is hard enough. Add social media, shame, and exclusion, and it becomes even tougher. That’s why platforms like Embrace are critical.”

Zapiro, whose work has been instrumental in South Africa’s democratic storytelling, shared advice for future cartoonists.

“Cartooning is more about your ideas than your drawing. Read widely, write often, and absorb the world.

Then express your unique take. Draw what you see, draw from your imagination, and copy marks from others. Always carry a sketchbook.”