HeronBridge learner aims to inspire youngsters
NIETGEDACHT – When he saw that it is possible to make YouTube your everyday job, 17-year-old Josiah Maponyane decided to help others feel better about themselves and their situations through his videos.
A HeronBridge College learner aims to motivate others by posting weekly motivational videos on YouTube.
Grade 12 learner and Dainfern resident, Josiah Maponyane started his YouTube channel named InspireToMotivateWithJosiah six months ago as a means to help others with their mental health and staying motivated in trying times.
His content is aimed at teens and young adults between 18 and 24. He explained that the videos are set to help people who ‘feel like the world is crashing down on them’. “A lot of students in the Fourways community could be bullied on a day-to-day basis and there might be those that suffer from anxiety and depression,” he told the Fourways Review.
“My YouTube [channel] speaks on social issues, depression, anxiety, and peer pressure. I am just trying to make an impact because I know life is too short and I am trying to make the best of it day by day.”
Videos he has uploaded included tips on to improve your mental health, how to study effectively and the importance of being grateful. Uploading videos weekly, schoolwork and representing his school in first-team hockey has his time management in check. However, Josiah said he has a strategy to keep a constant flow of content on his channel.
“I usually have separate days where I would film and edit my videos [leaving him time for other things]. I record on a Friday then edit Saturday or Sunday, then upload,” said the 17-year-old. Josiah added that he would like to become a motivational speaker so he can ‘make a difference in society.
He said he stays motivated with positive affirmations – telling himself every day that he will be a big creator on YouTube and that it only takes hard work and effort.
