By Staff Reporter
JOHANNESBURG — For many young people, the choices they make while still at school can determine the direction of their lives. This message took centre stage at Denver High School on Wednesday, 12 August, when the City of Johannesburg’s Region F marked International Youth Day with a day of empowerment and career guidance.
Held under the theme “Unlocking Youth Potential for a Brighter Future,” the initiative brought together Grade 10, 11 and 12 learners from Ward 61 for a programme focused on education, careers, life skills, safety and personal development.The event was designed to give learners practical information to help them make informed decisions about their futures while encouraging them to become active contributors to their communities and the city’s development.
A range of municipal departments and educational institutions attended the programme, including Social Development, Emergency Management Services, Library and Information Services, the Public Safety Youth Unit, Pikitup, the Joburg Ombudsman, the University of Johannesburg Community Engagement and Boston City Campus.
Learners had an opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance on tertiary applications, career options, health and wellness, and the requirements for obtaining learners’ and drivers’ licences. They were also given information on recognising abuse, reporting crime and making safer choices. However, it was the personal story of youth motivator Manqoba Nkunzi that left a lasting impression on many of the learners.
Nkunzi spoke openly about his battle with addiction and the consequences of choices that eventually led to him spending four years in prison for fraud and theft. He told learners that his problems began while he was still at school, despite warnings from teachers and his parents. “Drugs and alcohol destroy lives,” Nkunzi told the learners, reflecting on his own experience.He explained that his addiction eventually pushed him towards crime as he tried to sustain his habit, leading to a life that saw him lose his freedom and, at one point, sleep on the streets.
His message to the young audience was simple: the decisions they make today can have consequences far beyond the classroom.“You are the only one who can change your situation,” he said, urging learners to respect their parents and teachers, stay away from drugs and crime, and think carefully before making decisions that could cost them their freedom.
The programme highlighted the importance of giving young people more than motivational speeches. By connecting learners directly with institutions that can provide information and support, the initiative sought to ensure that they understand the opportunities available to them and know where to turn when they need help.
For Region F, the International Youth Day programme was also an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the city, schools and young people in local communities.The event ended with a strong reminder that youth empowerment requires collaboration between schools, government departments, communities and the private sector.
For the learners at Denver High School, the day offered more than information about careers and education. It provided an opportunity to hear a real-life story of adversity and recovery and a warning that the choices made today can shape the future they build tomorrow. Region F thanked the participating departments, institutions, speakers and volunteers for helping turn International Youth Day into a practical experience focused on empowering Johannesburg’s young people.
