On Friday, 16 June, which is celebrated nationwide as Youth Day, the fields of Parkhill Secondary School were abuzz with activity and excitement as scores of young people and youth centred organisations joined the non-profit organisation (NPO), Destiny Fulfilled, to celebrate the future of the community.
“We strongly believe in the value of Ubuntu which hinges on building relationships of respect and integrity while growing communities together,” said Michelle Tryon of Destiny Fulfilled.
and Karl Van Der Merwe – Blue Security Community Manager
She said: “This event formed part of a greater programme of empowerment that Destiny Fulfilled is rolling out at Parkhill Secondary and links into the community development objective.”
The Youth Day event consisted of a mini soccer tournament with five a side teams and 12-minute play offs, motivational talks, performers, artists and DJs from the school as well as local and supporting communities, a flea market, food stalls and all round family entertainment.
“This event aimed to enable positive peer accountability, motivation and involvement. The focus was to highlight the school culture and create school pride among the learners, create a catalyst for them to begin to initiate and enjoy the change management programme that is underway and to create a sense of unity within the community. We are building and supporting our youth in becoming fully functional contributing members of our society and providing opportunities for them to realise their full potential so they can fulfil their purpose and destiny,” added Tyron
Greenwood Park CPF Youth Desk, Sub Forum 2 Chairperson, Ashlin Ellan, thanked Parkhill Secondary and Destiny Fulfilled for bringing the event to the community as well as partnering with them to bring positive spaces for young people.
“The Youth Desk together with various stakeholders played a pivotal role in the safety and security management of the Youth Festival to ensure its success. Together with the CPF they had participated in a Snake Patrol (motorcade) the previous day increasing awareness and vigilance. We look forward to many future partnerships and collaborations with Destiny Fulfilled and our community,” said Ellan.
Michelle Beaumont of Teens Under the Hood South Africa applauded the initiative and said that there was a greater sense of connection that the community felt after they engaged with each other.
“Neighbours meeting in-person presented opportunities for small talk which helps people to find common interests and get to know others on a more personal level. It was great to be part of this initiative. Well done to Destiny Fulfilled and all parties involved,” said Beaumont.
“By actively engaging with the community and supporting such events, we can create an environment where young people can thrive, explore their passions, and build a brighter future,” added Clive Samuels, Regional Director for Blue Security.
