“When you climb the ladder, take someone with you…”
Fifty years after the historic events of 16 June 1976, young people in Zandspruit gathered at Yahweh’s Tabernacle to reflect on the legacy of the Youth of 1976 and the role today’s generation must play in shaping South Africa’s future.
The Youth Day event was hosted by Kingdom Helpers of Africa (KHOA), a non-profit organisation focused on empowering and serving young people. The gathering created a safe space for prayer, reflection and honest conversations about the realities faced by young people today.
Discussions centred on challenges facing youth today, including unemployment, substance abuse and barriers to further education.
Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:12, Pastor Thabo Matshaka encouraged young people not to be limited by their age, but to lead by example. He told attendees to “be the change you want to see,” urging them to live with purpose, purity and integrity.
He also reminded the youth that success should not be individual, saying, “When you climb the ladder, take someone with you.” His message challenged attendees to become the kind of leaders who create opportunities for others rather than leaving them behind.
Guest speaker Amanda Matshaka shared her personal journey, encouraging young people not to wait for opportunities but to actively pursue them.
She spoke about starting from entry-level roles, volunteering her time, and building experience in order to eventually reach her career goals. Even when there was no vacancies in the position she desired, she was willing to serve in other capacities to gain exposure and prove her commitment.
In a moment that resonated with attendees, she responded to a youth who shared that job opportunities were available at her workplace, saying: “Please apply, I am challenging you all to apply so you can come back with testimonies.”
The gathering also included testimonies and encouragement, reinforcing messages of faith, resilience and community support.
As South Africa marks 50 years since 1976, the message from Zandspruit was clear: the next generation is called not only to dream, but to act and to bring others with them along the way.
By Sinentlahla Mbokwe
