Young leaders shine at Cosmo City Ignite a leader in you talent showcase
Cosmo City's youth took centre stage recently, as the Ignite a leader in you event gave talented young people from the area a platform to celebrate excellence, confidence, and leadership.
Young people from Cosmo City and surrounding communities, including Ivory Park, Alexandra, and Pretoria, gathered on June 27 at Cosmo Meridian High School for the Ignite a leader in you event, a celebration of talent, purpose, and leadership that gave the area’s youth a powerful platform to grow.
Sifisokuhle Mkhwanazi, of AfterSkoolIsLit, who organised the event, said the day was about more than entertainment. “Ignite a leader in you is more than an event; it is a movement committed to building confident, skilled, and purpose-driven young leaders who will transform their communities.”
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The highlight of the occasion was a pageant competition in which Cosmo City’s own Taimar Khoza was crowned overall winner after impressing judges with her confidence, leadership, discipline, and grace. Mkhwanazi said every contestant walked away a winner, having inspired those around them to dream beyond their circumstances.
The school came alive as music groups from Cosmo City, dancers, and young performers entertained the audience, showcasing the depth of talent within the community. Beyond the performances, the event sparked meaningful conversations among young attendees around purpose, education, and the importance of leadership.
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Guest speaker Shakes Dlutu addressed the gathering with words of wisdom and encouragement, reminding the youth that their backgrounds should never define their futures, while Kamel Kross Confident also played a key role, motivating attendees to walk boldly in their purpose.
The event drew support from several partners and sponsors. Holly Friends of Hope donated prizes and giveaways, while Mofaya Energy Drink kept participants energised throughout the day. All4Youth, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, Nestlé, and the Clear Path Foundation were among the organisations that lent their support.
Mkhwanazi said the vision behind Ignite a leader in you was always rooted in the belief that Cosmo City’s youth deserve a stage of their own. “Every smile, every performance, every lesson, and every opportunity shared reminded us that the future of South Africa is bright, when we invest in its youth.”
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