Young people from across Mogale City gathered at the Munsieville Sports Complex recently for the Mayor’s Youth Festival of Opportunities, a dynamic event aimed at connecting youth with the tools, information and opportunities needed to shape their futures.
Hosted by Executive Mayor Lucky Sele as part of the June 16 commemorations and Youth Month activities, the festival brought together government, business, development agencies and community partners under one roof to provide practical pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and skills development.
More than just an exhibition, the festival created a space where young people could engage directly with organisations offering funding, training, career guidance and support services.
Setting the tone for the day, MMC for Local Economic Development, Lwando Resha, encouraged attendees to seize every opportunity available to them and view the festival as a stepping stone towards achieving their ambitions.
One of the highlights of the event was the participation of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), which shared valuable information on funding opportunities and the requirements needed to access financial support. Attendees also heard inspiring success stories of local entrepreneurs who have benefited from NYDA programmes and transformed their business ideas into thriving enterprises.
The private sector played a significant role in showcasing real-world opportunities. Companies such as Lepharo, U-Swipe Telecoms and Mogale Tailings Retreatment, alongside several local SMMEs, engaged with young people on career paths, workplace opportunities and the skills required to succeed in today’s economy.
The festival also provided access to essential government services. Stakeholders including the South African Social Security Agency and the Electoral Commission of South Africa interacted directly with attendees, assisting them with important information and encouraging active participation in civic and democratic processes.
As young people moved between exhibition stands, engaged with employers and explored available programmes, the festival reinforced a simple but powerful message: opportunities exist, and with the right support and information, young people can position themselves to take advantage of them.