Thusong motivates Alex youth to take charge of their future

Thusong Youth Centre marks Youth Day with a celebration to encourage young people to take ownership of their future and seize opportunities.

June 28, 2024

Xoliswa Zakwe 2 minutes read

Unbeatable Trouble Makers dance group showcases some of their dance moves. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

There was excitement at Thusong Youth Centre on June 15 as youngsters gathered to commemorate Youth Day with the theme ‘The ball is in your court’ which aimed to inspire and empower the youth to take charge of their destiny.

Founder and CEO of Kazigirl Senior Madubane urges the youth not to put everything onto God's shoulders while they do not make any effort to achieve their goals. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe — Founder and CEO of Kazigirl Senior Madubane urges the youth not to put everything onto God’s shoulders while they do not make any effort to achieve their goals. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

The day’s activities started with a parade, featuring music and dance. The energy was electric as the young participants showcased their talents and enthusiasm, setting the tone for a day filled with laughter, excitement and inspiration.

Wits University graduate Blessing Mncube shares her life story and encourages the youth to chase their dream even when life gives them lemons. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

The main programme featured engaging activities including motivational talks, workshops, and performances. The young attendees were treated to thought-provoking presentations from local leaders and entrepreneurs, who shared their stories of overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

Attendee Wits University graduate Blessing Mncube said, “Youth is a state of mind so do not allow people to tell you what you can and cannot do because at the end of the day, it’s your future and you determine where you want to be in the next five years.

“I lost my dad when I was doing matric in 2020 and I was not okay emotionally and mentally but I asked myself where I want to be in the next life and thought I won’t let any situation hold me back. I finished my matric, went to Wits and graduated with a BA in Law.

Radio workshop and Alex FM young reporter Abigail Meledza motivates young people to take care of their mental health. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

“I want to tell you that no matter how bad the situation is at home, never step back but go for what you want. Young people keep dreaming those dreams and they will come true no matter how long it takes as long as you manifest it.”

Also read: Local squash team coach escapes death at Thusong Youth Centre

Founder and CEO of Kazigirl Senior Madubane said, “One of the things that I faced as a girl child was not to have sanitary pads and I told myself that should I want to start a business, this is where I am going to start. I then started donating sanitary pads to the young girls in my community because I believe charity begins at home.

Colour Via Vyndal Pansula Dance Group enters the stage with an electrifying energy. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

“When I did research, I found out that these businesses that manufacture sanitary pads are multinational companies and we don’t have our local brands. I then decided to open my sanitary pad manufacturing company, Kazigirl.”

Radio workshop reporter Thato Mkansi, Young Black marketing manager Owami Dhludhla, Colour Via Vyndal Pansula dancer Bafana Binda and the Thusong Youth Centre coordinator Thumeka Joos, at the Youth Day commemoration event. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe

She said there were many opportunities out there. “You know the life that you want to live so ask guidance from God but don’t put everything onto God’s shoulder and say He will see me through if you won’t put any effort. You put effort and He will do the rest.”