SINDI SPEAKS

MSolweni nonke! Hi, everyone! Welcome to Thetha uvakale, aka speak and be heard. I am Sindi Dingana from Joza, Grahamstown. For the past five years I have been involved at Upstart Youth Development Project first as learner, then as volunteer radio producer and presenter. Today I run certain aspects of the project's media and training programme. For those who do not know, Upstart offers youth without easy access to resources vital life skills and leadership training through a high-school-based extracurricular media production and training programme. Inspired by Upstart’s original literacy programme, and the support of Grocott’s Mail and MakanaSharp, I am especially proud to bring you the inaugural edition of this weekly writing space for young people. We invite you (all of you) who may know of worthy stories about young people that need to be heard. This is your space.

In this edition, our learners were asked to write about their vision of the future. Our first story is by Chealsea Moses, who from a youth perspective eloquently touches on important issues of xenophobia, bullying and belonging in South Africa. Then, Anelisa Mtsiba plays with our hearts in her short but deep reflections on social work, children, and why she is choosing this vocation. And, finally what is a Makana Star you might ask? Well, simply put, the role models in our community. A teacher, a preacher, a friend, or maybe your mom. Someone who makes a real difference in your life. Know anyone like that? Why not feature them in our weekly Makana Star space! If your story of Makana Star is chosen, you could win a Gig of data!!!

This week our Makana Star is the formidable rapper and scholar, Sinethemba Mzizi. Read, weep and enjoy! Yonwabelani!!! And yes, in a world of cellphones and apps, developing the habit of reading and writing is vital to our youth. Ukufunda! Make yourself heard. We would love your feedback, ideas, Makana Stars, and criticisms:

HOLA AT US:

www.facebook.com/ UpstartYouth/

Email: upstartyouth3@gmail. com. WhatsApp: 0799290296

Visit our office at Joza Youth Hub, in Joza, opposite the Post Office

Also catch us LIVE on RMR and Radio Grahamstown. On Saturday from 9am to midday.