Youth empowerment: “I am a Reward” shapes future innovators
The programme comprised various speakers who engaged with the youth, highlighting essential skills such as personal branding, marketing calling, reimagining the workplace, and developing leadership abilities.
Entrepreneur and community leader Khanyisile Masongwa launched the I AM A REWARD programme, a dynamic youth empowerment initiative designed to equip, uplift, and prepare young change makers for the workplace on June 11 at Protea Glen Ext 29.
The programme comprised various speakers who engaged with the youth, highlighting essential skills such as personal branding, making marketing calls, reimagining the workplace, and developing leadership abilities.
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personal branding, marketing calls, reimagining the workplace, and developing leadership abilities.
Speaking to Urban News, Masongwa said the programme helps young people identify and develop their skills to make a meaningful impact, rather than remain unproductive.
“I have realised that many young people have become demotivated, and I don’t think they fully see how much they can contribute to their communities.
“This is largely because they come from a culture that encourages a linear path – go to school, study, and then get a job – but that is no longer the reality for many of us. Even with a qualification, it doesn’t work like that anymore. The economy needs innovators,” she said.
Masongwa said they plan to initiate more conversations that uplift young people, create symposiums and conferences, and provide platforms for them to share their stories and lead important discussions.
The programme has partnered with We LEAD AFRICA and hopes to attract businesses and additional organisations.
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During the programme, a speaker from We LEAD AFRICA, Sibongiseni Tshabalala, emphasised the importance of young people being responsible and making decisions that will lead to positive outcomes in the future.
An attendee Ntando Mvelase said meeting young people eager to learn and bring change to their communities encouraged him to see life from a different perspective.
“The programme has taught me a lot. The speakers allowed me to speak my mind, and working with teams of people I did not know was one of the best parts of the day. I am excited to see what more the programme has to offer us,” said Mvelase.
