Being young in
South Africa today isn't always easy. Sure, "ama
2000s" seem like they know everything, and our parents keep
reminding us that we have "everything we need," but we're still navigating some
serious challenges, like high youth unemployment rates, mental health struggles,
societal pressures and the constant weight of needing to have it all figured out. The truth is, we don't, and that's completely okay.
Being young isn't about having it all
together. It's about learning, growing, falling and getting wiser each time.
It's more than a history lesson and trending hashtags, it's about honouring
where we come from so that we can shape where we're headed.
Youth Month gives us the space to be
real about our struggles, from career confusion and financial pressure to
identity crises, but also to hype up our wins, no matter how small.
It reminds us that being young
isn't just about age, it's about the possibilities that lie ahead, the fresh
perspectives we bring, and how we see the world differently from our peers,
parents and older generations. It's about tapping into the potential within us
and having the courage to explore it.
And youth empowerment? It's not just
about annual flashy conferences or big-budget campaigns (although we thank the
platforms that are genuinely creating space for youth development). It's
about balancing your nine-to-five occupation while building your five-to-nine. It's knowing that you can be a
boss in the boardroom and still thrive behind a camera, over the microphone, make time
for your hobbies or sell your own creations. We're capable of being both
disciplined and daring.
Empowerment also lives in the everyday things: launching that YouTube channel, freelancing your art, applying for the
job, saying yes to the dream that scares you.
As someone living this journey
firsthand, I am learning how to balance it all and, trust me, it's not always
easy. I have a deep passion for both my career and content creation, and watching it all come together has been rewarding. What started as a simple
TikTok account that I created back in college has grown into real brand collaborations, all
while thriving in my nine-to-five. It's wild in the best way, as
my career aligns with my content creation. The future is looking bright, so the shades are staying on. Be real, follow your passions, and if that
dream keeps popping into your mind, take it as your sign to pursue it.
This Youth Month, I urge you to
step into your potential. Try something new. Make a few responsible mistakes.
Take smart risks. Start that side hustle and pitch that wild idea.
Learn who you really are outside of
how others label you. Live loudly, love your passions and whatever you do,
don't shrink yourself for anyone or anything.
Your story doesn't have to follow a
script. You get to co-write it with courage, creativity and confidence. The
world isn't just waiting for us. It needs
us.
Show up, take up space, and let
your light shine. Always remember: the world doesn't owe you, you owe the world.
This is your time. Own it.
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*Image courtesy of contributor