The youth is the future, that much is obvious. Developing these future leaders must then be one of society’s most important undertakings. Realising this, the my.voice programme was started to expand school learners’ abilities and teach them the skill of public speaking.
The my.voice West Rand programme, powered by Engage SA and funded by the Embassy of Switzerland in South Africa invited learners from five schools in the area to work with them over the past five months to “… discover the knowledge, skills, platforms and confidence to find their voice as young leaders and assist them in developing their very own youth-led initiatives to address issues they are concerned about in their school and communities,” said Tidimalo Moeketsi from Engage SA.
The programme culminated in the Youth Voices Celebration event on Saturday, September 11 in Muldersdrift in whch Mogale City’s Townview High School, Thuto Lefa Secondary School, Mandisa Shiceka School of Specialisation participated with Cosmo City schools Sgodiphola Secondary School and Blue Eagle High School.
Townview presented a number of short talks about mental health and thinking green, pointing out the various obstacles and providing proposed solutions.
Thuto Lefa learners spoke about hope among teenagers facing issues such as teen pregnancy, and about a book club initiative to promote reading among learners. Mandisa Shiceka also spoke about bullying.
The groups played a few team-building games, had some snacks and received certificates and rewards during the afternoon.
“My.voice is not taught, it’s explored and experienced through games, debates, group work, role plays, reflective activities and a variety of other transformational training and experiential learning methodologies that turn it into a life-changing experience for all participants,” Tidimalo explained.
