THE Community Fathers EmpowerU programme was officially relaunched, bringing together learners and their families for an informative evening at the Austerville Community Hall on February 10. The aim of the programme is to support young people in reaching their career goals.

Also read: Community Fathers launch EmpowerU programme to assist matriculants

Community Fathers, in partnership with the South Durban Basin Area Based Management, Fairvale High School, Umbilo High School, Wentworth High School, Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre and the Abbaquar San Dream Centre, hosted the event.

Darian Smith, the founder of Community Fathers, started the session with a strong message encouraging learners and parents to imagine bigger and better plans for themselves despite their current circumstances.

“EmpowerU is not just about accessing university, it is about restoring the soul of a community. When a young person begins to believe in their own future, they begin to walk differently, speak differently and see themselves differently. This is how safer spaces are created, not only through protection, but through purpose. We are part of building young people who do not need to escape their community to find value, but who will return to strengthen it,” he said.

EmpowerU is part of The Ultimate Gift, a Community Fathers plan to build safer, more connected communities by helping young people grow emotionally, socially and mentally. The programme provides learners with career advice and pairs them with mentors who guide them in their studies and personal lives.

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“Each learner who joins EmpowerU is required to give back through community service, so that they understand the importance of reinvesting in the very soil that raised them. In doing so, they do not only prepare for careers, but they also prepare for leadership,” said Smith.

In recent years, EmpowerU has aided many learners in getting into colleges and universities around the country. Programme graduates are now studying applied science, building design, clinical technology, social and health sciences, engineering and law, careers that once felt impossible to reach.

“The turnout at the parent session reflected the growing trust in the programme. The hall was filled with parents who came not only to listen, but to understand. It showed that they realise the future is no longer something distant, but something that is already unfolding,” said Smith.

The evening reminded everyone that change starts with relationships, when young people are seen, guided and believed in. Through EmpowerU, Community Fathers hopes to continue their mission in investing in young people’s lives and careers.

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