Youth empowerment took centre stage at the annual Youth in Action held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
As Youth Month came to an end hundreds of young people had the opportunity to explore various career paths and programmes over the two-day event from Wednesday 25 to Thursday 26 June.
Organised by the CTICC in partnership with various other partners, including humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers, the expo aimed to empower young people with innovative and inspiring programmes.
Among others, the attendees had access to counsellors, bursary options, networking sessions and information on further education and training.
Speaking to People’s Post Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Gift of the Givers founder, said the aim of the programme was to give young people options to see what study opportunities were available to them.
“It’s not just limited to science and medicine. There are options. We brought in a specialist to deal with substance abuse, so we had four workshops for teachers and learners on substance abuse.”
Over 1 000 young people attended, he added.
“It was phenomenal. Many of the young people has never been to the CTICC. The minstrels opened the expo, and the kids went crazy they were dancing. We had kids from many different schools, and they were provided with meals.”
He said it was encouraging to see the optimism shown by the youth.
“We were thrilled by the number of questions that were asked by the kids. They were interested and wanted to learn. They saw that there are so many different careers that they can choose. The stands were busy, and the exhibitors took their time to talk and engage with the young people.”
Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor and Mayco member for spatial planning and environment, attended the event.
“Initiatives such as this youth expo instil a sense of hope and faith in one’s own abilities, regardless of circumstances or where they were born. I also want to thank (teachers) who play an important role and function in building our society. Let’s make sure no opportunities are wasted.”
Andrews urged young people to invest in their future. “I encourage the youth to dream big, choose careers they are passionate about and help us build our city and country in general.”
Nonceba Mhlauli, Deputy Minister in The Presidency, dubbed the expo a “powerful initiative” opening doors to education, skills development and career opportunities.
“We are all well aware of the plight of youth from our communities. Our peers are unemployed, some drowning in depression, susceptible to negative influences and finding themselves in drugs and crime.
“We are working across all sectors of government to strengthen the economy, drive skills development and connect young people with real opportunities.”
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