Empower youth through education in S.A

IkamvaYouth is proud to have hosted a successful Winter School programme across all our regions! The programme was able to provide the much needed support to our learners and our tutors continue to thrive - creating a pathway for these learners to obtain quality secondary school passes and improve their learning experience.

IkamvaYouth’s Winter School programme is a week of rigorous tutoring, educational workshops and fun excursions for all the learners. Various talent shows and games are held.

Our 2018 programme commenced on the 25th of June 2018 and we saw a noticeable success by the large number of attendees. Tutors' and learners' dedication and attendance directly contributed to this success. Over 1,700 learners participated in this year’s activities. This is over 80% of our entire learner cohort in term two. Our Atlantis branch maintained the highest learner attendance, with a whooping 87%.

Moreover, our Diepsloot branch hosted its inaugural Winter School; where life and health skills dialogues around teenage pregnancy and safe sex practices were also a big highlight. IkamvaYouth understands that teen pregnancy has a tremendous impact on the lives of learners - educationally and socially. Early parenting, unfortunately, does reduce the likelihood of young girls completing high school and accessing post-secondary education opportunities, needed to positively contribute to our economy.

While our Joza branch had a lot more returning alumni to pay-it-forward during Winter School, 65% of alumni showed their commitment to the next generation. One such alumnus was Thabang, 21, from the Joza branch 2014 matric cohort. He tutors Maths, Geography and Physical Sciences. Thabang matriculated from Nombulelo Senior Secondary School (where the branch operates from) in 2014. He is currently enrolled for a Bachelor of Education via the University of South Africa. In 2016, he managed to secure a teaching internship with one of South Africa’s top schools - St. Andrews College.

Although Thabang admits he initially had a very reserved character, he said his interest in teaching was borne out of his experience whilst still an IkamvaYouth learner, “I was asked to help my peers by explaining some life sciences concepts.” Asked why he enjoys teaching he answered: “It’s the best career in the world - teaching is one important area to help children reach their optimum level and improve their outcomes, both in terms of academics and life in general!”

We are excited to see more of our beneficiaries wanting to affect positive social change in their communities!

“I love IkamvaYouth because it has helped me and continues to help me with my school work. The programme makes me more determined about my future. I would like to study a B.Ed at the University of Johannesburg next year and become a great teacher. I love IkamvaYouth and what it has done for me!”

~ Viwe - Ivory Park branch, Grade 12 learner

IkamvaYouth would like to thank you all for the incredible commitment and support to make our programmes possible! To get in touch with us visit our revamped website here.