The leadership of the newly established Ekurhuleni Junior Council was elected at the Germiston Civic Centre on Friday, August 14.
The leadership was elected following lively deliberations and a lengthy considerate voting process that included representatives from 99 schools throughout Ekurhuleni.
Metro spokesperson Themba Gadebe said the junior council is the first of its kind and will ensure that youngsters at a school level understand what democracy is about and take part in deliberations to ensure that children’s issues are taken into account by the municipality and its council.
In her acceptance speech, the junior speaker of council, Khanyisile Sponzwa from Global College in Kempton Park, expressed her gratitude for the appointment and pleaded with the young councillors to unite in serving the community of Ekurhuleni.
“Making a difference in the lives of people starts with knowing yourself and we, as young people, are faced with many social challenges including teenage pregnancy and substance abuse to name a few,” said Sponzwa.
She continued to say that as young councillors and future leaders they can assist in bettering the lives of the youth. “Together let us serve our generation.”
The leaders of the Ekurhuleni Junior Council are:
*Speaker of Council: Khanyisile Sponzwa from Global College;
*Deputy Speaker: Phumzile Mahlangu from Caiphus Nyoka High School;
* Executive Mayor: Cecile Matabaro from Brakpan High School;
* Deputy Mayor: Melandré Van Lill from Hoërskool Dinamika;
* Chief Whip: Tumelo Mashego from Muriel Brand Secondary School;
* PR Councillor: Njabulo Manyathi from Vosloorus Comprehensive Secondary School.
The young councillors will take an oath before the house as councilors who will hold office for the next two years.
The date of the Ekurhuleni Junior Council’s inauguration has not been announced yet.
