GEP is a non-profit organisation (NGO) that aims to provide personal and career development skills to children and youth between the ages of 12 and 23. The programme was founded by Tzaneen born and raised academics and professionals striving to enhance the skills that mentees acquire in their normal schooling curricula. During this second interaction with the youngsters this year, the focus was on how mental health awareness is linked to self-confidence and self-esteem and how to overcome it.

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Busie Mzandolo, a professional therapist, facilitated the session with the learners who were divided into five teams. “The learners were able to open up and talk about things they face such as gender-based violence (GBV), body changes, and the effects of not being able to afford certain things such as trendy clothing,” she says. “They were able to stand in front of their schoolmates and present what they learned,” she says.

She advises learners to speak up if they face challenges. “They need to acknowledge when they need help from professionals such as the Department of Social Development’s social workers who offer free services. “They need to be involved in sports and life skills activities that will keep them busy and entertained,” she concludes. The foundation will host another session in July to monitor the progress of the learners.