Aimed at uplifting high school boys in Nelson Mandela Bay, the seventh annual #MentorTheBoys workshop brought together Grade 11 students in the Hellenic Hall for an enriching experience filled with valuable life lessons recently.
Sponsored by Vodacom, the event provided each learner with 1GB of data to facilitate participation in a fun online activity. The event focused on equipping young men with essential life skills, promoting entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and responsible social media use.
A diverse group of speakers addressed the attendees on various crucial topics. Ryan Morris, Community Development Manager at Atlas Security, spoke on personal safety and crime prevention. He highlighted the importance of staying vigilant, avoiding distractions like phones and earphones in public, and reporting crimes to trusted authorities.
Clayton Goezaar from STANCE shared his entrepreneurial journey, recounting how he began his ventures in photography and videography during high school. He candidly discussed a difficult period involving the illegal sale of fudge mixed with marijuana, a situation reported by his mother. Clayton’s story of redemption and success through Christianity emphasized the importance of faith and perseverance, urging learners to “keep doing the right thing.”
Natasha Moodley from First National Bank (FNB) discussed financial literacy, stressing the importance of saving, budgeting, and responsible spending. She offered practical tips, such as maintaining a budget, seeking lower prices, paying cash, and cutting unnecessary expenses. Natasha underscored how budgeting helps control finances and save for significant goals.
Schools in attendance included Andrew Rabie, Booysen Park, Chatty, Cillie, Douglas Mbopa, Ethembeni, Hillside, Otto Du Plessis, Newell, Paterson, Westville, and Woolhope.
Mr. Xola Speelman of Konvenient Magazine addressed the importance of managing personal digital footprints and using social media responsibly. He encouraged learners to highlight their talents and positive activities on social media, citing the example of Naledi Aphiwe, who gained international attention from singer Chris Brown after he saw her singing video. Mr. Speelman emphasized the potential of social media as a tool for positive change.
The event exceeded the expectations of learners like Ashedon Sibanda from Westville High School, who initially saw it as an opportunity to meet new people but ended up learning about financial fitness, personal safety, and the negative impacts of social media bullying. Ashedon is committed to using social media positively and effectively.
The success of the event was attributed to the support of additional sponsors such as Super Spar in Newton Park, KFC, BLC, Magnetic Storm, Fat Cats Catering, and Caltex Marketer. Event coordinator Michelle Brown received high praise for her excellent organizational skills, ensuring the event’s success.
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