MENTAL HEALTH AND POSITIVE YOU SEMINAR 2023
In the previous week’s article, I highlighted the inaugural seminar we organized for junior school leaders in 2022, which drew the participation of 150 students. Being the first of its kind, the event generated tremendous enthusiasm and energy. Anticipating the outcomes with excitement, I witnessed a relatively smooth execution despite some minor hiccups.
This year, recognizing the impactful vacuum it fills in schools and reflecting on the success of the previous year, I resolved to make the seminar an annual affair. However, as I delved into the planning for the second edition initially slated for participating mattered most. The engaged October 2023, the reality of the challenges response from attendees, their hit me. Sponsorship requests interactions with guest speakers, active were met with rejections, securing participation in discussions, and keen a suitable venue became elusive, attention demonstrated the event’s and moments of discouragement impact—an immensely gratifying crept in. The thought of canceling realization that my mission had been crossed my mind, but a resounding accomplished. question echoed: Why did I embark A noteworthy observation during on this journey in the first place? the seminar was the heightened interest Consequently, I decided to postpone among children in understanding the event to November 11, 2023. mental health issues and coping With the additional time, my focus mechanisms for challenges affecting shifted to strategic planning and rallying their well-being as school leaders. potential sponsors to support Students shared personal experiences, the cause. The struggles persisted, shedding light on the difficulties they yet my determination to persevere faced within their peer groups and at remained steadfast. home. Addressing this crucial topic,
Fast-forward to the event day in Miss Lisa Naledi Fraser enlightened November, the seminar unfolded them on the four components essential successfully. While the attendance for effective leadership. was not as robust as the previous Ms. Lebogang Lebani contributed year, the essence of students insights on leadership in general, imparting Chedza makombo is the founder of Positive You by Chedza,a Mentor and Life Coach I Cell:71377816/74872515
You by Chedza
Makombo valuable skills for their current roles in school and future endeavors as budding leaders. Sharing her own transformative journey from low self-esteem to becoming a leader at Girls for Girls Botswana, she emphasized the importance of confidence building being emotional intelligence; using emotions, perceiving emotions,understanding emotions and managing emotions.
Expressing gratitude is paramount, and I extend my thanks to God, sponsors—Lil-Que Consultant, Shasha Convention Center, Perfekt Roast Kofi, On Board Media, SkyLens Media—guest speakers, and attendees from various schools. Their kindness and support played a pivotal role in making this event successful. Anticipation builds for another exciting seminar in 2024.