Jointhewalk,makethedifference
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Capetonians are called to lace up and do their bit to feed a hungry child with the annual Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) Blisters for Bread charity fun walk on Sunday 31 August
According to the organisers, over 700 people have already entered with this year ’ s target being 8 000 walkers
For the past 57 years proceeds from the event have been making a difference in the lives of thousands of hungry children by providing daily nutritious meals to learners across the Western Cape
The walk will start in Stephan Way, Green Point, and finish at the Green Point Common Sports Ground It offers two scenic route options along Cape Town’s iconic Sea Point Promenade A 10km walk which starts at 07:30 and a 5km walk starting at 08:00
Each participant will be presented with a commemorative medal as a token of PSFA’s appreciation for taking part in this meaningful cause
In addition, thanks to the support of Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, complimentary refreshments will be available to all walkers, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and energised throughout the day
Patrons can also look forward to some live music performances from Cape Town’s top local artists, family-friendly entertainment, food stalls and loads of activities for kids and grownups alike
Putting an event like this together requires
EVERY LITTLE BIT HELPS. THE NEED IS GREAT.PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING BECAUSE OF THE COST OF LIVING
many hands
One organisation that has willingly put up their hands to assist for the past 10 years is the Lions Club
Allison Georges, secretary of Cape of Goodhope Lions Club in Plumstead, said members from the club have been volunteering as marshals for over 10 years
“Our members volunteer for most organisations that do events We assist at the Cape Town Cycle tour, the Gun Run, and Blisters for Bread
“Hunger is one of our pillars, we have eight pillars which we work on It is important to us to assist other organisations raising funds
A JOURNO’S VOICE
The late great American poet and songwriter Leonard Cohen once said: “If you don’t become the ocean you’ll be seasick every day ”
In this uncertain age where the world of work and society are shifting rapidly through the breakneck speed of Artificial Intelligence’s (AI) advances and how it’s morphing our jobs, I find these words are becoming eerily relevant, especially for the youth who feel vulnerable to peer pressure and comparisons
They may start doubting their passions to pursue “cushy jobs” that even aren’t spared the threat of retrenchments It only takes one lonesome evening doom-scrolling and you’ll find yourself drenched in endless clips of influencers, giving advice on relationships, fashion, your diet or offering you financial tips to catapult your salary
This habit can become pernicious as we think we lack fulfilment in our careers, love lives and physique and start to loathe the present
time
Now your algorithm can predict your interests and you may return to this feed as a form of therapy like these TikToks and strangers understand you Now you ’ re swimming in a stream of the latest trends in slang, fashion, music and now your conversations and clothing become singular Now you may hide your unique individuality out of fear of rejection as it drowns in the mass of information you consume You keep hearing people say that they heard a new movie was terrible instead of watching it themselves and offering their own unbiased opinion Instead of freely being ourselves more people seem to latch onto the narrative of pop culture and join the “cool club” I’m guilty of this too and I admit there are gems of handy advice glowing amid the “brain-rot”
There’s dates, delicious recipes and funny cat videos available with the swipe of a finger, but when do we stop, reflect and allow some introspection before we fall prey to instant gratification and hits of dopamine?
It often seems more relaxing to
to feed the less fortunate and especially the children ”
According to Georges, about 120 marshals will safely guide walkers on the day
Georges appealed to people to enter and join the walk and help make a difference
“Every little bit helps The need is great People are suffering because of the cost of living There are many children that are going to school without a meal ”
Entries are now open, with flexible registration options available for individuals and groups The R100 entry fee will enable PSFA to provide both breakfast and lunch to 20 hungry schoolchildren for a day Official event T-shirts are available at R150
Patrons can enter online with registration closing at midnight on Sunday 17 August .To register or learn more,please visit www psfa org za For any enquiries,contact Top Events at info@topevents.co.za or via WhatsApp on 066 139 4210
enjoy a whole bag of crisps laying inside a warm bed binging Instagram reels or watching the latest series than finishing that new novel or completing our gym goals As a young adult enduring work traffic, deadlines, loneliness and dating disappointments, it’s easy to become irritable and cynical and let our egos wreak havoc and become addicted to pleasing ourselves No pun intended there
It’s uncomfortable to confront our insecurities and shortcomings
When we consider our dreams we may think have become dusty old toys we left on the shelf, but that’s where the personal growth lies
With every push-up you may feel your arms start to shake as you struggle to pick yourself up from the floor We could wonder why are we making our bodies suffer and yet we forget this pain is microscopic tears which allow muscle fibres to increase in size
When we read a book we unshackle our imagination, visit a character’s world and experience their challenges and understand our heartache is a common thread extending from as far as the 1800’s and will always be relatable We’re
quick to forget our progress when scrolling on social media and seeing someone who already has the kind of lifestyle we desire but hardly consider that we ’ re only seeing a mirage someone has carefully curated to reflect their ideal selves to the world
We’re obsessed with aesthetics and living life like celebrities and fear being seen as “cringe” Especially young artists feeling exhausted about the hustle they endure creating their art and feeling upset about the views they receive and the bills that could care less about harmony and cinematography But remember, my friends, today Vincent Van Gogh’s artworks are priceless despite his struggle in selling those beautiful paintings So enjoy the present tense and understand your work and legacy will live after you There’s a beauty in floating in these chaotic seas of modern life, seeing how technology and social media has connected us to form relationships Artist Tyler the Creator also constantly reminds artists and content creators to forget the numbers and publish their art because “ you never know who’s watching”
All City clinics offer youthspecific services to encourage young people to invest in their health and well-being
While services can be accessed at any time, designated hours of 14:00 to 16:00 were introduced some years ago, specifically for adolescents
More recently, seven clinics have established youth zones - offering dedicated waiting and treatment areas
These clinics are Lentegeur, Dr Ivan Toms, Delft South, Bloekombos, Wallacedene, Langa and Ikhwezi
Youth zone readiness assessments are underway at 11 more clinics, including Adriaanse, St Vincent, Albow Gardens, Elsies
River, Manenberg, Masincedane, Vuyani, Gugulethu, Matthew Goniwe, Wesbank and Sarepta “City Health offers critical services for young people, particularly for sexual and reproductive health, substance abuse treatment and mental health services And, while this group makes up the largest percentage of clients accessing certain services, we can do better Stigma continues to be a stumbling block - hence the efforts to provide safe spaces for our young clients where they can access care without judgment It is a work in progress, but I encourage our young people to please reach out and make full use of the services on offer,” said Mayco member for community services and health,
Francine Higham
The package of services tailored to the needs of young people includes:
· Sexual and reproductive health care
· Access to various contraceptive methods
· TB screening and treatment
· HIV screening and treatment
· Emergency contraceptives
· Provision of Pre exposure prophylaxis and post exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP)
· Substance abuse programme
· Mental health services
“Our clinics also maintain a schedule for regular school outreach visits, where health promotion and screening services are provided In response to a recent
Patrons can also look forward to some live music performances from Cape Town’s top local artists
KEANAN HARMSE
Entrepre
NAMHLA MONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
In the heart of Imizamo Yethu, a densely-populated informal settlement nestled in the hills of Hout Bay, opportunity is often the exception, not the rule Yet from its zinc-roofed maze and unpaved paths, Arthur Yanda Mexico emerged with a vision to turn township-born dreams into scalable businesses and hopelessness into hustle.
Mexico, a social entrepreneur and founder of Access Network Africa (ANA), is using his journey from township to boardroom to empower others As South Africa commemorated Youth Day yesterday (16 June) his story served as a timely reminder of what can happen when young people are equipped, and not overlooked “Growing up taught me to make a plan, especially when resources are scarce, ” said Mexico “There’s a unique kind of creativity and drive that comes from places such as this I knew I had to honour that spirit by building something for young people like me ” Stats South Africa’s Q1 2024 Labour Force Survey reveals the youth unemployment rate (15-34 years) stands at 45,5%, more than 71% having never held a formal job In communities such as Imizamo Yethu these figures are more than data; they’re daily realities “The unemployment crisis isn’t abstract here,” Mexico said “You see it in every second household But instead of sitting back we can channel that frustration into enterprise ” His entrepreneurial journey began in 2014 while pursuing a BCom in Strategic Management A student business mentorship programme introduced him to the power of social entrepreneurship “That programme changed everything,” he reflected “It showed me I could blend business and social impact, that I didn’t have to choose
FROMPAGE1
“These numbers highlight an urgent and ongoing need,” said Herrick “It’s not just about fixing vision, it’s about giving children a fair shot at succeeding in life ” Another challenge has been the reluctance of some learners to wear the spectacles they’ve received
According to the project report, learners who previously received spectacles but refused to use them were not issued new ones this year “Our hope is that they will realise the value of being able to see in the classroom and ask for a new pair next year, ” Herrick added
POWEREDBYCOMMUNITYANDGENEROSITY
The Vision Project is made possible through a blend of local dedication and international support Donors include DHL South Africa, Rotary Clubs from Canada and the United States of America, and individual contributors
In total, the project’s cost for the year came to just over R528 000, a small price to pay for the life-changing impact on more than 500 young minds
“If you are interested in learning how to get involved or support this project, please visit the Rotary Club website, rotaryhoutbay org, ” said Herrick Learners at schools like Silikamva step into their futures with clearer vision
Healing begins when men talk
NAMHLA MONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Mfundo Totana is a 47-year-old father of two boys. Like many men in the city, he carries an invisible weight, one not often spoken about: the silent struggle with his mental health.
“I don’t always feel okay,” Totana admits, his voice steady but sincere “But I’ve learned it’s better to say that out loud than to pretend everything is fine ” June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to break the silence and encourage open conversations around emotional well-being
In a society that often tells men to be strong, to “ man up ” , or to hold it in, this month’s message is simple but powerful: “it’s okay not to be okay”
For Totana, the struggle isn’t new He has faced long spells of unemployment and the crushing pressure of trying to provide for his family while feeling emotionally drained “People say, ‘Just get a job,’ but they don’t see how hard it is when your mind won’t settle When the stress just piles up, ” he says Like many others, he admits to bottling things up “Sometimes I stay quiet because I don’t want to be seen as weak But that silence hurts more than anything ”
This silent suffering is widespread According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), men are significantly less likely to seek help due to cultural stigma and expectations “Men make up nearly 80% of suicide deaths in South Africa They’re taught from a young age to hide their emotions and that’s costing lives ” Mental health professional Yolanda Mhlakela, the 2024 Employee Assistance Practitioner (EAP) Practitioner of the Year, agrees “We need to create safe spaces where men can express themselves without fear or shame,” she
Sakh’indoda organisation in Hout Bay gather and have monthly group sessions togive men a place to be heard PHOTO: SUPPLIED
NPOtacklesyouthunemployment
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
KAYLYNNE BANTOM@NOVUSMED A CO ZA
With the curtain coming down on Youth Day yesterday (16 June) youth unemployment remains a crisis in the country However, a local youth-based organisation is on a mission to address this by providing young people with skills to prepare them for the work environment.
Initiated in the Western Cape, YearBeyond is a national programme that provides unemployed youth between 18 and 25 years with meaningful work experience and a pathway to further studies or work, while encouraging a culture of community service
YearBeyond is a Youth Service partnership between national government, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), donors, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Wayde Groep, manager: Knowledge Management, Communications and Training at YearBeyond, said the organisation operates as a social
franchise with over 50 partners, most of them NGOs, who provide the mentorship and support in communities for the youth, leveraging the YearBeyond Programme resources and curriculum
Groep says the biggest challenge young people face is unemployment, limited access to education and networks, as well as the lack of guidance and support
“YearBeyond tackles these challenges by offering youth a year of meaningful work experience, paired with personal and professional development, mentorship, and pathway support for when they graduate from the programme
“Through this, young people gain valuable experience, build critical skills, and access opportunities that set them up for further study, work, or entrepreneurship ”
Groep says participants receive a curated training programme focused on building their professionalism, emotional intelligence and agency
“They also receive pathway support to identify possible career options, compile a winning CV, prepare for
an interview and pitch themselves to recruiters
“This journey is supported by a mentor whom the youth see weekly 70% plus of our alumni each year remain active in the economy as students, workers and entrepreneurs,” says Groep
He explains that young people are trained to deliver a pre-designed programme, to track their work and are supported with observation visits, feedback and access to online learning materials to supplement the face-to-face training
“Youth can also request help with our well-being eco-system, which includes access to trauma support, counselling, social workers, and other wellness professionals ”
Groep adds that the organisation is constantly adapting to the economic or social conditions affecting the youth “Each year the programme adapts to be responsive to the context – for example, we have a focus on entrepreneurship given the economic climate and identity and inclusion issues as many young people grapple with this ”
Youngpeoplespeakout...
On the cusp of Youth Day, celebrated yesterday, People’s Post talked to some of the young people about their thoughts about South Africa
Riyaan Manan says: Being part of the youth of SA is amazing Being surrounded by so many cultures and such a wide variety of awesome people our country truly is such a wonderful place for oiuryour youth
Esethu Zawukana says: Being a youth in South Africa means being the voice of change We are living in a country with so many opportunities, but also many challenges It’s up to us to speak out, stay informed and push for better education, mental health support and job creation Yes, Youth Month reminds me of the sacrifices made in 1976, but now it’s our turn to lead
John Bulani says: For me, being young in South Africa is about
reclaiming power We are not just future leaders, but leaders now Youth Month isn’t just history; it’s a reminder that we can still fight injustice, whether it’s gender-based violence, inequality or corruption It’s a call to action
Dante Perucatti believes being a youth in South Africa means living in a country full of contrasts: As a young person I see the struggles around me, people fighting to make ends meet and some giving up on their dreams because they don’t see a way forward But I believe that even with the hardships there’s always something worth reaching for And then there’s the view, the one I see every day, whether it’s the sunrise on the mountains, the city lights at night or just kids playing in the street That view reminds me to keep moving forward
Rohan Jhilmeet says: As a young
person in South Africa I feel uncertain and frustrated
The job market seems unfair, with qualifications not guaranteeing opportunities, while connections often pave the way for success Safety concerns also weigh heavily on my mind
Simamkele Sono says: Emerging adulthood can be thrilling, characterised by independence, a career, romance and idea exploration Even though it’s exciting and full of possibilities this stage can lead to anxiety, instability and a sense of not quite belonging
Overall emerging adulthood can feel like a mix of emotions and anxiety
It’s a time of great opportunity for personal growth and exploration, but also a period of navigating the complexities of adulthood with a sense of uncertainty and instability The truth is that we are a sad generation smiling online and dying offline
He explains that businesses can get involved as follows:
. Create opportunities for youth to work in their organisations and partner with YearBeyond for a pipeline of talent
. Create opportunities for job shadowing to expose youth to the careers in their industry
. Support youth to prepare for the market by volunteering time to do mock interviews
. Sign up for one of our Opportunity Expos
. Sponsor YearBeyond via the umbrella NGO YeBo Institute
Cadetsreadyto hitthestreets
Hundreds of metro police cadets are putting their best foot forward to tackle crime as they near the end of an 18-month training programme focussed on growing municipal policing resources
Under the “Project 1 000” skills development programme, the cadets have undergone months of gruelling training to equip them with the necessary skills needed to address crime-related concerns
The initiative offers youth the opportunity of an intense 18 month full-time learnership which includes extensive physical training, training on legislation, theory and practical training, among others
The campaign builds on the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) programme, which has already deployed 1 300 new boots on the ground in crime hotspots via a partnership between the City and Western Cape Government
The training commenced in December 2023 and followed an extensive recruitment process
The cadets have now qualified as fully trained metro police and traffic officers after completing a combined total of 35 modules
Dean of the Public Safety College, Deputy Chief Bradley Lakay, says the gruelling physical training completed each day forms an integral part of developing a competent police force fit for the purpose
“Each day the cadets undergo extensive physical training to prepare them for the field They attend the college for eight hours a day and each day they are required to run 2,4km, complete 40 push-ups in under a minute, complete 20-metre sprints known as shuttle runs, complete 40 sit-ups in just one minute and climb a two-metre high wall The training is intensive but is aimed at providing the residents with the best our service has to offer ” The college boasts a main campus in Observatory and six satellite campuses across Cape Town
“This is the biggest intake we have ever seen at the training college and we are excited about the deployment of the cadets later this year This initiative is a new start for the Safety and Security Directorate as this group has received the best training we have to offer The training is comprehensive and we also place a significant focus on ethics training as we aim to build a competent, well-trained and ethical metro police force
“This deployment will see the newly trained cadets being deployed as dedicated ward officers, facility protection officers and a dedicated escort unit I have been on patrol with some of the cadets and I am very impressed with their willingness to learn and their eagerness to serve the residents of Cape Town,” said Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith
Dante Perucatti
Simamkele Sono
Rohan Jhilmeet
Riyaan Manan
Esethu Zawukana
John Bulani
Participants receive a curated training programme focused on professionalism
Cadets go through their paces PHOTO: SUPPLIED
