History was recently made in the metro when the first Ekurhuleni Junior Council was elected at the Germiston Civic Centre.
The council members were elected from representatives from 99 schools in the metro.
The Junior Council is a first of its kind in the metro, and will ensure that students understand what democracy is all about.
It also allows youngsters a chance to take part in deliberations on important issues and ensures that children’s issues are taken into account by the metro.
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.
“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,” she said.
“As young councillors and future leaders we can assist in bettering the lives of the youth.
“Together let us serve our generation,” she continued.
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 Junior Council’s inauguration will take place soon, and will see the young councillors taking an oath before the house.
The councillors will hold office for the next two years.
