CAPE TOWN-More than 40 learners across Grassy Park gathered for a meeting at Fairview Primary School on Saturday 1 November to discuss how bullying and gangsterism affected the local youth.
The Youth Service and Awareness Talk was organised by the Grassy Park Community Policing
Forum (GPCPF).
Community leaders, police officers and social media personalities joined forces to deliver messages of hope and empowerment to learners facing multiple daily pressures.
“Our young people need support, guidance and encouragement, now more than ever,” said
GPCPF chair Nicole Jacobus.
“As we enter the final exam period many learners are silently struggling. Our message to them is simple: you are not alone. There is help and there are people who care and are ready to listen.”
Police leadership guidance
Former Grassy Park Police Station commander Col Dawood Laing addressed the importance
of making positive life choices, drawing from his extensive experience in community policing
and youth development.
The main message of the meeting was overcoming challenging circumstances, reminding
learners their current living conditions do not determine their future potential.
“Whether they dream of becoming a doctor, social worker, or anything else, it is all possible through determination and positive decisions,” said Jacobus.
Social media as a positive influence Shewaan Richmind, a well-known TikTok personality, used his platform and influence to encourage young people to stay focused and make choices leading to long-term success.
His participation demonstrated how social media figures can positively impact youth development.
Gender-based violence awareness
CPF secretary Charmaine Arendse addressed the critical issue of gender-based violence, emphasising its impact extends beyond women to include male victims whose experiences often go unrecognised.
She highlighted the importance of breaking the stigma, reminding everyone that men can also be victims of abuse, though their pain often goes unheard due to the belief that “boys don’t cry”.
The inclusive approach to GBV education challenges traditional assumptions while encouraging all victims to seek help regardless of gender.
“Together we remain committed to guiding and empowering our youth to choose a brighter path and believe in their full potential,” organisers concluded, emphasising long-term commitment to youth development,” Jacobus said.
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