Community partners introduce youth to golf, life skills
"Opportunities such as these help broaden young people's horizons and encourage them to believe in their potential regardless of their circumstances."
A collaborative effort between local organisations and community leaders gave a group of young people the opportunity to experience golf while learning valuable life skills at the Benoni Driving Range on June 5.
The initiative brought together Benonian Nolan Pillay, of StraightTalkWithNolan; the NPO Be the Best Version of Yourself; Benoni Driving Range owners Ugan and Renee Pather; and golf coach Gabriel Moses to host youngsters from Sinethemba Hope House, Benoni Christian Church, and Benoni High School.
For many of the participants, it was their first introduction to the sport.
Beyond learning how to swing a golf club, the youngsters were exposed to lessons in discipline, focus, confidence and perseverance while interacting with mentors committed to making a positive impact in their lives.
Organisers said opportunities such as these help broaden young people’s horizons and encourage them to believe in their potential regardless of their circumstances.
The event forms part of the ongoing work of the Be the Best Version of Yourself NPO, which focuses on youth development through mentorship, leadership training, skills development and empowerment programmes.
The organisation’s flagship initiative, Project One Million, aims to positively impact one million young people across Africa by creating opportunities for personal growth and development.
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“We also advocate for inclusion and support for differently abled individuals. Every two years, members take on the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and demonstrate that barriers can be overcome with determination and support,” said Nolan
He emphasised the importance of partnerships between businesses, community organisations and individuals in creating meaningful opportunities for young people.
“We encourage companies, entrepreneurs and community leaders to get involved through sponsorships, mentorship, skills sharing, resource donations or collaborative community projects.
“Creating access to positive experiences and strong role models can play a significant role in helping young people realise their potential and become productive members of society,” added Nolan.
Those interested in partnering with the initiative or learning more about its projects can contact Pillay via WhatsApp on 062 556 7817.
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