Learners at Modiri Secondary School were recently inspired and empowered by a youth-development initiative led by the Ga-Rankuwa YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association), aimed at equipping young people with life skills, leadership abilities and the confidence to shape their futures.

The visit formed part of the organisation’s broader mission to support youth through programmes that promote positive values, responsible decision-making and active community participation.

General secretary Phuthegi Mashigo said the purpose of the visit was to engage learners through several of the organisation’s key initiatives, including the Transformative Masculinity Programme, life-skills training and youth advocacy work. These programmes aim to give young people the knowledge, confidence and values to make responsible decisions, build respectful relationships and contribute actively to their communities.

During the visit, learners took part in interactive workshops and discussions designed to encourage critical thinking and personal growth. Through group activities and conversations, learners explored leadership, respect, gender equality, self-awareness and the importance of speaking up on issues affecting young people.

Mashigo said the YMCA chose Modiri Secondary because communities such as Ga-Rankuwa have many young people who can benefit from programmes that promote leadership, social awareness and personal development. “By working directly with schools, the YMCA is able to reach learners at an important stage in their lives,” she said.

She added that the YMCA supports young people through youth-empowerment programmes, mentorship, advocacy initiatives and leadership development. “These initiatives provide safe spaces where young people can learn essential life skills, discuss social challenges and develop the confidence needed to become responsible leaders,” Mashigo said.

“Through mentorship and motivational sessions, learners are encouraged to set goals, believe in themselves and remain committed to their studies,” she explained.

She noted that young people in areas such as Ga-Rankuwa often face challenges, including peer pressure, unemployment, lack of mentorship, GBV and limited opportunities.

The organisation hopes the initiative will empower learners to make informed decisions, develop leadership qualities and become advocates for positive change. Similar programmes have produced measurable results: many participants have gained confidence, developed leadership skills and shown greater commitment to education, while some former participants have become youth advocates and community leaders.

The YMCA plans to build long-term partnerships with schools in Ga-Rankuwa and surrounding areas so more learners can benefit. Schools and community organisations can partner with the YMCA by hosting youth workshops, collaborating on advocacy projects and supporting leadership programmes that provide guidance and mentorship.

Mashigo said the YMCA is part of a global movement operating in more than 100 countries and continues to work nationally to empower young people. Part of this expansion includes establishing university partnerships as satellite hubs for youth engagement and leadership development, with planned collaboration with institutions such as Tshwane University of Technology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and the University of Johannesburg.

She encouraged learners to believe in their potential and use their voices to bring about positive change.

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