The City of Johannesburg hosted an information sharing event in partnership with external stakeholders to empower, equip, and create opportunities for young people in Soweto, enabling them to be competent and independent members of society. The event afforded Soweto’s youth a platform to collaborate, build networks, and share knowledge and expertise that can change their socioeconomic status and the quality of their lives.

The event was also designed to empower attendees to network with peers, share best practices, and learn from one another.

Nomvula Dlame, the event organiser and coordinator, said the City of Johannesburg is committed to helping young people all year round and not just during youth month in June.

Three councillors from Soweto, in Region D, were present on the day to support and encourage the young attendees. Councillor Bawinile Magwaza (ward 13) welcomed the attendees and said she was happy to see their attendance.

​Magwaza commended the City for hosting such events that provide a platform for young people to access information that can change the quality of their lives.

Councillor Phelelani Sindane (ward 135) encouraged the youth to dream big and think about being entrepreneurs and creating their own jobs, while Councillor Makapani Mokoena (ward 14) who interacts regularly with young people was encouraged by their enthusiastic participation in municipal information sharing events.

“We always notice the ideas they have and how driven they are, and these types of engagements really change young people’s lives,” said Mokoena.

The event also featured exhibitors from external stakeholders who provided attendees with a variety of services like career guidance, interview skills, job opportunities, education, finance, and counselling on substance abuse.

Raymond Zulu from the Department of Economic Development and Keke Rabotho from the Department of Labour both addressed the event, and their eagerness to help was palpable.

Most young people who attended the event said the City was the bridge to closing the skills gap and were grateful for the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and grow together.

Dlame said regular info-sharing events like these give young people a fighting chance at a future to look forward to.

“It is essential to work together to minimize the blow of the socio-economic challenges facing our communities. The City of Johannesburg’s commitment to helping young people all year round is a step in the right direction,” she said.

Written by Lelethu Tyilana

16/03/2023