Byline: Captain SA

Winnie Mandela Customer Care Centre, Tembisa – 27th May 2024

On the vibrant morning of May 27th, 2024, the halls of the Winnie Mandela Customer Care Centre were filled with excitement and anticipation as Gauteng Young Vision (GYV) hosted the graduation ceremony for its Girls Empowerment and Mentorship (GEM) program. The event marked the culmination of an intensive life skills training course aimed at empowering young girls to become confident, knowledgeable, and proactive members of their communities.

The graduation ceremony was a celebration of the dedication and hard work of the young participants who have shown remarkable growth and transformation throughout the program. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting the energy and enthusiasm of the girls who were not only proud of their achievements but also excited about the future.

A Community United for Empowerment

The event was graced by the presence of key partners who have been instrumental in the success of the GEM program: Community Media Trust, Shout-It-Now, and SA Rainbow News. Their support has been invaluable in providing resources, expertise, and a platform to amplify the voices of these young girls.

As the guests took their seats, the room buzzed with animated conversations and laughter, showcasing the camaraderie and bonds formed among the participants over the course of their training. The event commenced with a warm welcome from E. Sibeko, Managing Director of Gauteng Young Vision, who praised the girls for their perseverance and dedication.

Empowering Through Education

The GEM program, a cornerstone of GYV’s outreach efforts, focuses on providing adolescent girls with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the challenges of adolescence and beyond. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including sexual health, psychological well-being, HIV prevention, leadership, and personal development. Through interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, and community projects, the girls have gained invaluable insights and practical skills that will serve them well in their personal and academic lives.

During the ceremony, several graduates shared their experiences and reflections on the program. “Before joining GEM, I was unsure of myself and my future,” said Precious Ncube, a 23-year-old participant. “The program has given me confidence and taught me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I’ve learned so much about health, leadership, and how to make a positive impact in my community.”

Another participant, Angel Nkambule, a 20 year old girl expressed her gratitude for the mentorship aspect of the program. “Having a mentor who believes in you and guides you through challenges has been life-changing. I’ve discovered my strengths and learned how to set goals for my future.”

Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead

The ceremony continued with a series of performances and presentations by the graduates, showcasing their talents and the skills they have acquired. From heartfelt speeches to creative skits and musical performances, the girls demonstrated their newfound confidence and creativity. These performances were met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience, further highlighting the supportive and celebratory atmosphere of the event.

Representatives from Community Media Trust, Shout-It-Now, and SA Rainbow News also addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of such programs in fostering the development of young girls and creating a positive ripple effect in the community. They commended the graduates for their hard work and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.

Positive Feedback and Future Aspirations

The feedback from the graduates was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their eagerness to apply what they have learned to their everyday lives and future endeavors. The girls also appreciated the sense of community and support they found in the program.

“I feel empowered and ready to take on the world,” said Keabetswe Mabona, another graduate. “The GEM program has not only educated me but also connected me with a network of amazing peers and mentors who inspire me every day.”

The event concluded with the presentation of waist bags, prep, scuff to the graduates, each one a testament to their commitment and achievements. As the girls proudly received their incentives, the room erupted in applause, celebrating their journey and the bright futures that lie ahead and looking forward to the new facilitator as they advanced to another training called “Girls Club” Training after the votes.

A Commitment to Continued Empowerment

Gauteng Young Vision remains dedicated to its mission of empowering youth and fostering positive change in the community. The success of the GEM program and the recent graduation ceremony are a testament to the organization’s impact and the potential of the young girls it serves. With continued support from partners like Community Media Trust, Shout-It-Now, and SA Rainbow News, GYV is poised to expand its reach and continue making a difference in the lives of young people.

As the ceremony drew to a close, the graduates, their families, and the community members in attendance left with a renewed sense of hope and determination. The future is bright for these young girls, and with the skills and knowledge they have gained, they are well-equipped to become leaders and change-makers in their communities.

In Conclusion

The GEM graduation ceremony at the Winnie Mandela Customer Care Centre was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of the impact of education and mentorship in shaping the lives of young girls. Gauteng Young Vision is proud of its graduates and looks forward to continuing its work to empower and uplift the youth of Gauteng.

For more information about Gauteng Young Vision and its programs, please contact E. Sibeko at cookercaptain@gmail.com or 081 375 349.

Together, we are building a brighter future, one empowered girl at a time.

#GautengYoungVision #GEMProgram #GirlsEmpowerment #YouthDevelopment #CommunitySupport #HIVPrevention #LifeSkillsTraining #YoungLeaders #EmpowermentThroughEducation #PositiveChange #FutureLeaders

About Gauteng Young Vision:
Gauteng Young Vision (GYV) is a non-profit organization committed to youth education, development, and empowerment. Through various programs and initiatives, GYV aims to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.