The sky was a steel-grey canvas as the youth of Johannesburg converged at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre, braving the biting cold in their relentless quest for knowledge and entrepreneurship. Their objective was clear: to learn about the myriad opportunities available through the City of Joburg Youth Directorate.
Despite the challenging weather, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and hope. Among the esteemed panellists was Lekau Sehoana, founder and owner of Drip Sportlife, whose journey from poverty to entrepreneurial success inspired many.
Joining him were Katlego Mohamme, a soccer player currently on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns to Sekhukhune United; Siyavuya Madikane, Communications and Public Affairs Manager at Google; Nkosana Ngwenya, an entrepreneur in the construction industry; and the dynamic facilitator, Zandile Ntlokwana, who kept the session lively and engaging.
The session commenced with Pretty Mazibuko from Orange Farm in Region G posing a poignant question to the panellists: “What kept you going when you felt like giving up? The youth are facing so many challenges, and opportunities seem so inaccessible.”
In response, Sehoana shared his tenacious journey: “The business I am in now is probably the 100th one I’ve tried. I started at the age of 15, driven by the poverty we all face. I tried farming, but it didn’t work. I always knew my passion was fashion, so I kept going because I had nothing to lose. Things finally picked up in 2019 when I made my first million from Drip, and I never looked back.”
Lwazi Zinganto from Alex then raised concerns about the difficulties of breaking into professional soccer and the exploitation in the construction industry.
“I’ve tried playing soccer, but it’s tough breaking into the professional ranks. I know many talented young people who never turn professional. I also worked in construction, but I was not paid what I was promised. There is a lot of exploitation. How can it be formalised to protect us as labourers?”
Katlego Mohamme responded with encouragement: “Don’t give up easily. Treat football as work, not just play. It starts on the streets, but it takes discipline and determination to turn professional. Keep going for trials, and don’t get discouraged when you’re not selected. Keep trying and improving where you lack.”
Lucas Sebei, the Deputy Director of the Youth Directorate, thanked all panellists for sharing valuable information with the youth who braved the weather to attend the session and engage.
“This summit is not the last. Our doors are open for the youth to come and engage with us on issues they need assistance with.”
Boitumelo Bapela, the Acting Director of the Youth Directorate, concluded with a powerful call to action: “The youth should not wait for handouts but raise their hands to work with the government to find solutions to challenges like unemployment and substance abuse. Thank you to the panellists and exhibitors, including NYDA, City Parks, City Power, and Pikitup, who formed part of this summit.”
As the session wrapped up, the young attendees left with renewed hope and a clearer path forward, determined to harness the opportunities presented and forge their own futures amidst the challenges.
Written by Luyanda Lunika
10/06/2024
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