SHARPEVILLE – The third annual Phothiza Holdings Winter Holiday Youth Camp has been the talk of town after it delivered community engagement, growth, and excitement to more than 60 vibrant learners from grades seven to 12. The camp was held at the EL-Bethel Worship Centre.

At the helm of the camp was Director of Phothiza Holdings George Lephoto, who ensured that the camp offered more than just a break from school.
The youth event offered an empowering blend of education, fun, and life skills.
Each day kicked off with a hearty breakfast and ended with lunch, fuelling minds and bodies for a packed programme of activities.
Campers engaged in energetic aerobics, listened to inspiring testimonies, as well as powerful stories of transformation from former offenders.
Pupils also participated in vital discussions on topics including road safety, municipal bylaws, bullying, rape, and teen pregnancy.

Sessions also explored South African heritage and the hazards of cellphone use while walking. Daily debates sharpened critical thinking skills, with a spirited showdown between Grade 12 learners and the sports & recreation team stealing the spotlight.
Constance van Niekerk encouraged all the young participants to pursue their dreams and apply the knowledge they gained throughout the week.
“The third Winter Holiday Youth Camp proved once again that when a village comes together, incredible things happen. With its growing impact, the camp is set to become a cornerstone of youth development in Sharpeville for years to come.”
Khanyi Galela, a grade 11 professional model, children’s book author, and former camper, returned to teach a modelling workshop for the girls. The week was wrapped up with a fabulous mini runway showcase, which gave the girls a moment of glamour and confidence that won hearts.
Lephoto highlighted that the success of the camp was made possible by a truly united community. Stakeholders from across sectors lent their time, skills, and resources, creating a powerful network of support.

Lephoto also gave a heartfelt thanks to all stakeholders, parents, and the hardworking kitchen team. He reaffirmed the camp’s mission to keep youth positively engaged and away from risky behaviours. The five day camp from July 7 to 11, was supported by Sharpeville SAPS, multiple departments of the Emfuleni Local Municipality, Gauteng Departments of Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, and Community Safety, Olwethu Fitness, Sharpeville Library, Lekoa FM, CPF, Men As Safety Promoters, Talk Boychild Foundation, U-Turn Youth Development & Drug Awareness, FAMSA, Just Gospel Radio, Lifeline Vaal Triangle, Tshehlana Cleaning Services, Sedibeng Heritage & Museums, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, Siyabangena, and many more. “Exciting plans are already underway, including potential visits to local heritage sites in collaboration with Sipho Khumalo of Sedibeng Heritage and Museums,” said Lephoto.
To close off the camp, a dazzling talent show that brought the house down was carried out by learners showcasing poetry, dance, and song. Grade eight rapper Tumelo Machabi stole the spotlight with a performance that proved he’s destined for the stage.