Bokamoso Education Centre
The centre held a music and performance event. The learners wore uniforms to commemorate the youth that earnestly fought for being taught in their own languages, rather than Afrikaans in 1976.
Johannes Majola said they have brought the music and performances to remind people about what the learners of Soweto schools did to oust bantu education.
“Our purpose of hosting this event is to unite people of all walks of life and to remember those who died for the education we now enjoy,” said Majola.
Boksburg SAPS
The Boksburg SAPS held a sports tournament to fight crime and celebrate Youth Day.
According to the spokesperson of Boksburg SAPS, Ntsako Ledwaba, they staged soccer and netball games to activate the youth and encourage them to join the Youth Desk.
“We advised the youth to avoid being involved in crime since they will tarnish the legacy of the 1976 protests.”
Boksburg City FC
Football clubs from Boksburg City, Calula United, Comet and SSP hosted the June 16 tournament.
The coach of Calula United, Phineas Madlala, said their aim was to unify the community of Boksburg North.
Coach of Boksburg City, Ebenezer ‘Shakes’ Mbetse, explained that they hosted the tournament to commemorate the fallen heroes and to attract sponsorships for all the teams.
“I want to thank God for giving us this opportunity to host this tournament. If it wasn’t for God this tournament wouldn’t be possible,” said Mbetse.
Festival
The community of Reiger Park came out their numbers to support the Reiger Park Ward 34 youth committee’s festival at Oos Rand Secondary School.
According to the organiser and ward committee youth portfolio holder, Daniella Lion, the objective of the event was to unite the youth of Reiger Park.
“Most of the youth in our community is lost due to lack of opportunities and substance abuse. We want youngsters to see that there is still talent in Reiger Park,” she explained.
The festival started at 08:00 until 17:00.
Highlights of the event include a street parade and festivities such as sports tournaments, stalls and a DJ line-up.
She described the event as a success adding that about 1000 people, including Ward 34 Clr Edith Klassen, attended the festival.
“Residents from areas such as Springs, Brakpan, Geluksdal and Nigel also supported this initiative.
“The highlight of the festival for me was when I was walking down the street. I stopped at one child who was dirty and disadvantaged. I told him to put on shoes and come with me. The child enjoyed himself during the day.
“To help and encourage the child meant the world to me. My wish is to go out in the community and feed our children.”
Lion expressed her gratitude to Oos Rand Secondary School principal Peter Arendse for allowing them to hold the event at the school and the sponsors.
She added the festival will now be an annual event.
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