As’Bangene movement launched in Thembisa

As’Bangene movement gives South African youth a space to talk about healthy lifestyle choices and a chance to take part in the development and design process of the movement.

This movement is interactive and uses social media and local events for young people to have space and opportunity to ask any questions about their health, sex, nutrition, chronic medication and relationships.

They launched in Thembisa on March 2.

As’Bangene is an initiative of The Aurum Institute, in partnership with the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the Gauteng Department of Health and Ekurhuleni Municipality.

Wendy Khumalo, Community Media Trust communications officer, said local community events will be held around Ekurhuleni in 2020 where communities will have access to health services, such as testing for diabetes, HIV, TB and other health services.

“Youth, for the youth. Thus the movement is interactive and uses social media and local events so that young people have the space and opportunity to ask any questions relating to their health, sex, nutrition, chronic medication, relationships, etc.”

Khumalo said young artists and talent from Ekurhuleni who have entered the As’Bangene dance and hip-hop vocalists competitions performed on the day. They were required to theme their performances around making healthy choices.

“Dancers Black Spiders from Daveyton and rapper Thobani Hadebe from Thembisa each won R2 500 and a goodie bag,” said Khumalo.

Singer and presenter Rorisang Thandekiso had the crowd inspired, while Amapiano’s DJ Stokie and House DJ Shades got the crowd on their feet and moving.

Thandekiso said she believes young people are always sold the future. But the question of what kind of future are they working towards remains.

“The big house and perfect job won’t mean anything if they are not in good health.

“We should be encouraged to pursue good health the same way we are encouraged to pursue wealth,” said Thandekiso.