WATCH: Rewlatch Primary hosts boychild initiative on challenges facing young boys
SANCA Central Rand Rosettenville and AYDF brought learners and community partners together to discuss substance abuse, mental health, bullying, GBV and positive citizenship.
SANCA Central Rand Rosettenville and the African Youth Development Fund (AYDF) recently brought learners, community organisations and youth supporters together at Rewlatch Primary School for the ‘It Takes A Village To Raise A Boychild’ initiative.
The event created a safe space for boys to speak openly about the challenges they face.
The programme encouraged learners to take off the ‘masks’ society often places on them and to talk honestly about their experiences, fears and pressures.
Crucial issues discussed
Important issues affecting young people were discussed, including substance abuse, mental health, bullying, criminality and gender-based violence (GBV), positive citizenship, sexual abuse awareness and healthy lifestyles.
A key moment of the programme was a special appearance by KeMo, the friendly mascot for the Ke-Moja (I’m fine) drug prevention campaign, who shared heartfelt thoughts about the importance of raising boys in a caring and supportive community.
She highlighted the role of guidance, love and positive relationships in helping boys grow into respectful, responsible and emotionally strong men.
She also reminded those present that raising a boychild is not only the responsibility of parents but that families, schools, community organisations and society all have a role to play.
Learners reflect on values
The learners took an active part in the discussions, asking questions and reflecting on important values such as identity, humility, knowledge and respect.
The conversations aimed not only to educate the boys but also to encourage them to make positive choices and understand their role as future members of society.
SANCA, AYDF, Booysens Boxing Club, The Character Company, the City of Johannesburg, the Johannesburg Society for the Blind, and other community stakeholders supported the initiative.
Organisers thanked Rewlatch Primary School for hosting the programme and everyone who helped make the event possible.
The initiative reminds everyone that supporting young boys requires a united community. By creating spaces where boys can be heard, guided and supported, the village can help them grow into responsible citizens and future leaders.
