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Recently, we had the privilege of visiting our partners, Thembalethu Nkomazi, who hosted us for a training day in Mpumalanga. The session brought together a diverse group of participants, including hospital workers, social workers, and church workers—all individuals committed to making a difference in their communities. It was inspiring to see people from different settings unite with a shared passion for equipping and empowering young people.
Kicking Off the Day
We started the day together by discussing the crucial topic of safeguarding. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the young people we work with is at the core of everything we do. This session laid a solid foundation, reinforcing the importance of creating secure and supportive environments for youth. We also introduced the vision and mission of the Dignity Campaign, helping attendees understand the heart behind our work and how they could play a role in transforming lives.
Breaking into Groups
After the initial session, we split into two groups—men and women—to focus on the practical aspects of running a Dream and Dare day. This approach allowed us to dive deeper into the specific needs and topics that each group would be addressing.
For the women, we covered essential themes such as identity, purpose, puberty and menstrual cycle and management, equipping facilitators with the tools to guide young girls in discovering their value and potential. The men’s group explored topics like manhood, responsibility, and healthy relationships, empowering male leaders to challenge harmful norms and encourage positive masculinity.
Participant Feedback
The training had a profound impact on those who attended. Here’s what some of the participants had to say:
From the Dream training:
"The practical training has impacted me positively because I have learned a lot about girls and topics to teach girls on things that happen in their daily lives."
"It has also helped to motivate me and remind me that God loves me and He created me just the way I am."
"Positively because I learned so much information that I had no idea about. All the topics were so relatable and it's something that we deal with almost on a daily basis. The training was so informative as it allowed all participants to be part of it and to share their thoughts and ideas as well as experiences."
"The program helped in training me about the different changes in my body and how God has wonderfully made me in His image."
From the Dare training:
"It was a good lesson on what it is and what is required of men and a man in society as a whole, to foster a better community through equipped leaders who are aware of their identity and purpose."
"It impacted me to view life in a different way, to know more about manhood and how a man should conduct himself."
"This training has given me confidence and allowed me to be equipped to teach other boys how to be REAL MEN."
A Day of Learning and Growth
Throughout the training, there was a strong sense of engagement and eagerness to learn. Participants asked thoughtful questions, shared their own experiences, and brainstormed ways to implement what they learned in their respective spaces. The diversity of backgrounds added richness to the discussions, as everyone brought unique insights and perspectives to the table.
By the end of the day, there was a renewed sense of purpose and excitement among the trainees. The session didn’t just equip them with knowledge—it ignited a passion to be agents of change in their communities.
Looking Ahead
We are grateful to Thembalethu Nkomazi for hosting us and for their commitment to empowering young people. The impact of this training will extend far beyond the day itself, as these dedicated individuals take what they’ve learned and apply it in hospitals, social work, churches, and beyond.
We look forward to seeing the ripple effects of this training and continuing our partnership to bring hope, dignity, and transformation to young lives in Mpumalanga and beyond.
