The annual Grade 11 Male learners event for boys from various high schools in Gqeberha took place in the Hellenic Hall, Gqeberha on Tuesday 14 May 2024. Title sponsor, Vodacom, ensured that the learners with Vodacom phones all received 1 Gig of data to make their participation in a fun online event easier on the pocket. The event aims at empowering the young men with essential life skills, encouraging them to pursue entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and responsible social media use.
The event featured a range of speakers who addressed critical topics, including Ryan Morris, Community Development Manager at Atlas Security, who emphasised the importance of personal safety and crime prevention. Ryan highlighted the need for vigilance, encouraging the learners to be aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions like using their phones or wearing earphones in public. He also stressed the importance of reporting crimes and seeking help from trusted authorities if needed.
Clayton Goezaar from STANCE shared his entrepreneurial journey, detailing how he started his business ventures, including photography and videography, while still in high school. He spoke about his experiences, including a challenging period when he found himself on the wrong side of the law when his mother reported him for selling fudge mixed with weed – but ultimately found his identity in Christianity and started doing things right. Clayton encouraged the learners to “keep doing the right thing” and emphasized the importance of faith and perseverance.
Natasha Moodley from First National Bank (FNB) discussed financial fitness, highlighting the importance of saving, budgeting, and responsible spending habits. She provided practical tips on how to start saving, including keeping a budget, shopping for lower prices, paying cash, and reducing unnecessary expenses. Natasha also emphasised the benefits of having a budget, including being in control of one’s finances, having a clear view of income and expenses, and saving for important goals.
The schools that were present were Andrew Rabie, Booysen Park, Chatty, Cillie, Douglas Mbopa, Ethembeni, Hillside, Otto Du Plessis, Newell, Paterson, Westville and Woolhope.
Mr. Xola Speelman addressed the importance of personal digital footprints and responsible social media use. He encouraged the learners to use social media platforms to showcase their talents, interests, and positive activities, citing the example of Naledi Aphiwe, a young girl who gained recognition from international singer Chris Brown after he saw a video of her singing. Mr. Speelman stressed that social media can be a powerful tool for positive change and encouraged the learners to use it effectively.
The event exceeded the expectations of learners like Ashedon Sibanda from Westville High School, who initially thought it would be an opportunity to meet new people but gained much more. Ashedon said, “I learnt about financial fitness, how to keep myself safe, and the unfairness of bullying on social media. I promise not to take part in it and will use social media in a way that is effective to me.”
The event was made possible through the support of other sponsors, including Super Spar in Newton Park, KFC, BLC, Magnetic Storm, Fat Cats Catering, Caltex Marketer and others. The event coordinator, Michelle Brown, was commended for her exceptional organization skills, making the event a huge success.
Video: Grade 11 All-Boys Schools Event in Qgeberha
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Alan Straton
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