Alex’s change lies in its youth
ALEXANDRA – The youth's power and opportunity is the foundation for change in Alex.
There will be a quantum leap in the well-being of Alexandra residents if all township youth commit to changing their circumstances.
“This requires a new mindset and belief in the youth that they have the power, and with commitment, they can change the conditions that their disempowered parents were forced to bring them up under.”
This was said by Alex born Vaal Tech student Terence Lesoga, who urges his friends to break free from an undesirable past through positive thoughts, actions and outlook on life.
“We shouldn’t let society define us by the current circumstances of our parents and let ourselves slot into the same conditions of poverty and suffering when there is so much we can do to change our circumstances.” He encourages the youth to premise their aspiration on education.
A second year Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Accounting student, Lesoga weathered the storm as an orphan from Grade 11 with his siblings, and managed two distinctions and seven passes, which got him into varsity.
“I didn’t let my child-headed household conditions drive me into crime and antisocial conduct, with the help of a church that adopted us.
“Candles at night lit my way through as I worked to break from a life I knew I had to change for myself and others,” he said, urging those in similar conditions to reflect rather than opting for a quick way out through crime and violence, which he said will shorten their lives through imprisonment, injuries, ill health and early death.
“If you can think, see and walk, there is still hope for you to aspire, move towards your dreams and be someone in life who will be an inspiration to others and the world.”
He urged the youth to start with a motivating routine of waking up in the morning and heading to school with an inkling of wanting to change the universe and their own perception of life.
“Start with small things, like making your bed, which will brighten your day and demeanor, while you also gain the skills of personal organisation. Adopt an attitude of respect to parents and teachers whose role is to guide you as you work towards your dream. Later, go back to your former school to show appreciation and help your successors.”
He urged those who have failed, never to give up. “Champions are made from those who never quit but learn and improve from their mistakes.”
Lesoga urged the government to adjust its youth support programmes to include personal development skills to help them relate better and be more analytical when handling and solving challenges in life.
“The skills provided by the support programmes should also be portable across many professional careers to ensure the youth remain relevant and in demand in our transforming society.”
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