Authored by: Captain SA |SA Rainbow News | 03 July 2026
ETHAFENI PARK | 26 June 2026 – Ethafeni Park came alive with energy, inspiration and community spirit as young people, parents, government departments, community organisations and corporate stakeholders gathered to commemorate Youth Day through an informative and interactive programme aimed at empowering the youth.
The event, hosted by Muscle Tower Gym in partnership with various stakeholders, successfully combined education, health promotion, sports and family engagement, creating a platform where young people were encouraged to make informed life choices while strengthening relationships within the community.
#YouthDay2026 #YouthEmpowerment #SARainbowNews
The programme commenced with a warm welcome delivered by Noko Thantsha from the Department of Health, followed by the purpose of the day presented by Mosadi Lehoko from the Department of Social Development. Their messages highlighted the importance of investing in young people and creating safe spaces where they can access information, opportunities and support.
#HealthyCommunities #BuildingTheFuture #CommunityDevelopment
A series of informative presentations equipped attendees with valuable knowledge on issues affecting today’s youth. Mittah Selokela delivered an insightful presentation on mental health, encouraging young people to prioritise their emotional well-being and seek support when facing challenges.
The Department of Health, represented by Noko Thantsha, educated participants on maintaining healthy lifestyles, while LoveLife contributed to discussions promoting responsible decision-making among young people.
Representatives from the City of Ekurhuleni, Thoko, Makukhanye, represented by Alfred, Get Informed Campaign representative Hloni Mokoena, POWA representative Brenda Mpyenyane, and Old Mutual also participated in the programme by sharing valuable information and engaging with young people on opportunities, personal development and responsible decision-making. Their contributions complemented the day’s objective of equipping youth with practical knowledge and access to essential support services.
#MentalHealthMatters #EndGBV #DrugFreeCommunities #TeenPregnancyAwareness
One of the highlights of the day was the motivational presentation by Nhlanhla Mabasa of Muscle Tower Gym. His inspiring message encouraged young people to embrace discipline, physical fitness and healthy living as tools for achieving personal success.
Members of Muscle Tower Gym further entertained and motivated the audience through impressive bodybuilding demonstrations and modelling showcases, inspiring many young people to pursue healthier and more active lifestyles.
#FitnessForLife #MuscleTowerGym #YouthInAction
The event also featured aerobics sessions, various sporting activities and interactive games involving parents and their children. These activities strengthened family bonds while promoting teamwork, communication and community participation.
Young people actively participated throughout the programme by engaging with presenters, asking meaningful questions and sharing their experiences on issues such as gender-based violence, drug abuse, stress management and teenage pregnancy. The interactive approach ensured that participants not only received information but also became part of meaningful conversations about the challenges affecting their lives.
#CommunityEngagement #FamilyFirst #YouthVoicesMatter
The organisers expressed sincere appreciation to all partners and sponsors whose generous contributions made the event a success. Gratitude was extended to Exquisite Bakery Café for providing cakes, SPAR Birch Acres for donating bread and oranges, McDonald’s Birch Acres for supplying juice, the City of Ekurhuleni for providing water, and the Department of Health for supplying the sound system and goodie bags.
Special appreciation was also extended to Old Mutual and all participating stakeholders for supporting the initiative and contributing towards youth empowerment through education, awareness and community engagement. Their collaboration with Muscle Tower Gym demonstrated the power of partnerships in creating opportunities that positively impact young people and their families.
#WorkingTogether #CommunityPartners #YouthDevelopment #OldMutual #MuscleTowerGym
The successful Youth Day Commemoration at Ethafeni Park served as a powerful reminder that meaningful partnerships and active community participation are essential in building a healthier, safer and more empowered generation. Hosted by Muscle Tower Gym in partnership with government departments, community organisations and corporate stakeholders, the event showcased the importance of investing in young people through education, health promotion, sport and positive community engagement. The day concluded on a high note, leaving attendees inspired, informed and motivated to become agents of positive change within their communities.
