Beyond Zero recently hosted an empowering Youth Summit on March 16th, 2024, at Tiisetsang High School in Bethlehem. Collaborating with our sub-recipient CCI, the event unfolded as a dynamic platform for engaging young minds in discussions surrounding the AYP Programme delivery and the adaptation of programmes to cater to their unique needs. 

The Summit served as a pivotal moment for amplifying the voices of young individuals, granting them the power to influence programme implementation.  

During the Summit, the AYP was divided into five breakaway sessions. These sessions covered TB literacy, treatment, and stigma; sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) access and service delivery challenges; HIV prevention methods, challenges, myths, and stigma; human rights and advocacy, barriers, and enablers to access services; as well as access to psychosocial support services from the safe spaces and the Post Violence Centres (PVCs), and benefits of psychosocial support services from PVCs and safe spaces. The insights from these discussions were later presented by AYP representatives, shaping the discourse and future direction of the AYP programme. 

A comprehensive survey on HPV was conducted, promising tailored solutions to benefit our communities based on the survey results. The summit engaged the youth and gave them an opportunity to learn and share their experiences. Kim Ambrose, one of the AYP that attended the summit said “I had an amazing experience here in Bethlehem for the AYP Summit. We had a lot to learn, the summit was educational. We learned how to protect ourselves from TB and HIV, and ways to address issues that we face in our communities.” Lebohang Mathudisi also shared his experience about the summit, she said she learned how to protect herself from pregnancy, TB, and HIV. “My message to all young people is that they should all be safe and use condoms.” Lebogang added. 

Noteworthy figures from various sectors including AYP from CCI, key populations, community leaders, and representatives from government bodies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Education (DOE), Department of Social Development (DSD), CSF and PCA graced the Summit with their presence.  

Engaging narratives shared during the sessions shed light on the transformative impact of initiatives like AYP safe spaces. Beneficiaries, like Relebohile Mphwana and Lerato, shared their experiences highlighting the invaluable support received through safe spaces, ranging from educational assistance to emotional support and skills development. Gloria Mahlangu, safe space supervisor from Senegal said “My job is to provide psychosocial support. When we talk about psychosocial support, we are referring to counselling, in my space we help young people from the age of 10 to 24, we assist them with dealing with their personal issues because there’s a lot that they are going through. Safe spaces are open to everyone who needs assistance, we don’t discriminate, everyone can access our services.” 

The vibrant energy at the summit showed the unwavering spirit of youth empowerment. Top of FormFrom vibrant colours bringing life to the venue to captivating entertainment, the event resonated with the enthusiasm of youth advocacy. 

The AYP Programme, centred on adolescents and young people aged 10-24 years in 5 priority sub-districts, aspires to cultivate a generation of healthy, educated, empowered, and safe individuals. As we venture forward, let us embrace a journey “beyond zero”, where the potential of our youth knows no bounds. Together, we can sculpt a future where every young person thrives and radiates success.