This year, a newly formed youth book club decided to make the festive season both special and educational by hosting a Christmas-themed spelling bee competition.

Hillshaven librarian Lydia van Aswegen assisted the teens in organising the event. She explained that a group of high school learners approached her wanting to do something positive for the community and start a youth book club.

The club meets on Fridays and usually hosts activities such as chess and discussions on thought-provoking topics.

Their main goal is to empower the youth in the community.

“I was amazed by how driven these teenagers are to read and keep the culture of reading alive. Seeing this was truly wonderful,” Lydia said.

Seventeen-year-old Dessie Manuel founded the initiative.

“I’ve always loved reading and thought it would be great to start a book club for young people. I believed it could build unity, resolve conflicts, and offer a safe space for teenagers. I really hope we can grow and take part in more competitions,” Dessie shared.

She added that clubs like these help young people improve their vocabulary, which could also make it easier for them to secure future job opportunities.

To make the end of the year more meaningful, Lydia helped the club host their first event – the spelling bee – ending the year on a positive note.

Learners who participated in the spelling bee are:

• Tlotlo Modise
• Mogomotsi Mabe
• Lethimpilo Ndlovu
• Kgosi Msimango
• Tokoloho Mofama (winner)
• Dessie Manuel
• Charity Mthembu

The judges were Lydia and Ntlhomheng Matabane, a valued library patron.