A learner from Eketsang High School raising her view at the Johannesburg Youth Dialogue earlier this year.

These young leaders who are all high school will discuss relevant issues on a range of topics including; crime, education and healthy lifestyle as well as other issues that affect the country and the continent of Africa as a whole.

                  Learners at the Star For Life Youth Dialogue during the talk show session in Johannesburg in May this year.

Star For Life will be hosting this symposium for the third time where about 16 schools from uMkhanyakude and Umhlathuze District will come under one roof to discuss and express their views freely. Young leaders will not only discuss issues on their own but they will also have an opportunity to discuss issues with the experts from several government organisations, youth agencies and other non-profit organisations.

This symposium aims to provide a platform for youth to come together and unite around issues of community empowerment. It also aims to inspire youth to take a more active role in leadership, to groom and build them and encourage them to participate in overall community development.

The Star For Life Area Manager and organizer of this dialogue; Mr Simingaye Zulu noted that the previous Youth Dialogues have been a success and that this one will be bigger and bolder, “We’re expecting to see learners taking more control of this symposium as this is their day to shine and raise their views on different issues affecting our society.”

Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund will be in attendance and is also sponsoring the event. The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund has been funding this symposium for the past three years.