By Sbongile Sokela
As the countdown begins for the much-anticipated Public Speaking Winter Boot Camp, Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers is proud to announce that 30 of its beneficiaries have been selected to represent the organization at this life-changing event. The camp will take place from August 1 to 3, 2025, at Kwa Mhlanga Lodge in Pretoria, and will bring together young leaders from across Gauteng’s five corridors, which include Ekurhuleni, Tshwane, Sedibeng, West Rand, and the Central Region.
The boot camp is coordinated by the Siyakha Youth Foundation and forms part of a powerful initiative aimed at strengthening public speaking, confidence, and leadership among young people in the province. It is part of a broader literacy and empowerment effort to equip youth with essential life and communication skills.
“It is a great pleasure to coordinate this literacy boot camp for our province. Despite unforeseen circumstances, we are committed to working with other organizations to make a greater impact. We will have various stakeholders, including the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers, Tshiamo, Thandeka Knowledge Hub, and more,” said Mr. Hlangoti, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Siyakha Youth Foundation.
Although there is much excitement and preparation underway, logistical challenges remain. So far, 210 learners have been registered to attend the camp, but several important needs are still outstanding. The team has only managed to secure 100 toiletry packs and is still in need of 110 more. They also need snack packs for the learners to have in between sessions. Some regions do not yet have transport arranged, and assistance is needed to ensure every learner arrives safely. In addition to this, winter apparel such as branded hoodies for participants and jackets for volunteers are needed to ensure comfort and uniformity. Furthermore, volunteers who will be assisting during the three days are also in need of stipends.
Support is needed and welcomed from communities, organizations, and businesses. In particular, the team is appealing for support from the following malls and surrounding communities: Springs Mall, Daveyton Mall, Benoni, Lakeside Mall, Tsakane Mall, and Emajuteni. The team also calls on the taxi industry, including the Benoni Taxi Association and its various branches, such as the Daveyton Mall taxi rank, Las Vegas rank, Springs rank, and Benoni rank, to come on board and support this meaningful initiative.
Whether it is a financial donation, toiletry contribution, snack packs, transport assistance, or clothing sponsorship, every bit of help will make a meaningful difference.
This is more than just a camp. It is an opportunity for young people to find their voice, build their confidence, and become the future leaders of South Africa. Let us join hands and help make this experience unforgettable for them.
For more information on how you can support or get involved, please contact the Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers team at 063 468 0872, 061 635 2833, 071 815 7578 or 066 101 2650 (Siphiwe Nhlangoti). Let us turn hope into action.
