Insights
Igniting dreams and nurturing growth – An Africa Tikkun success story
Afrika Tikkun is set to empower over 400 underprivileged South African youth through their involvement in the Duke of Edinburgh's International Awards (DOEIA). We recently spoke with some of the award recipients, who shared insights into their experiences and growth throughout their journey.
With Afrika Tikkun, students are given the chance to embrace opportunities to learn and grow. Many excel in the DOEIA programme, which empowers underprivileged youth across several areas including education. "I wanted to challenge myself and develop new skills," said 17-year-old Khanyisile Ngobese, a gold awardee based in the Uthando centre. "The award motivates me to keep striving for excellence."
For some, the challenges were practical, including learning time management and tackling new technology. “Balancing the programme with my schoolwork was difficult,” according to Bronze participant Nkemeleng Lekena from the Mfuleni centre whereas Caroline Ramoloto, from the Diepsloot centre, admitted being daunted by using technology, “It was my first time using an online platform.”
Some students shared that they found the physical parts of the programme challenging, such as the ‘adventurous journey’, a guided expedition where groups of young people camp and explore nature together. Mokgadi Precious Chauke from the Phuthadijthaba centre reflected on the early struggles faced with teamwork and communication. "Logging hours for physical recreation was particularly challenging," she recalled.
These hurdles only fuelled the students' determination to succeed. Seventeen-year-old Sihle Mlonyeni, who is on track to achieving the Gold award, told of his sense of empowerment from the DOEI experience. "Every bit of effort has been worth it. I've experienced incredible growth while discovering meaningful ways to contribute to my community." Honest Moyo, A silver recipient form Uthando, has found a new support structure in his Afrika Tikkun network. “I persevered, relying on the support of my mentors, peers and family.”
For some young people, the lessons learned were around the basic life skills that would serve anyone well in a place of work within any organisation. “I am no longer afraid of starting and completing a task,” said Kgomotso Radebe from Arekopaneng. “Asking for help is not a weakness but a strength, —giving up is never the solution to achieving success.”
Further reading: Stonehage Fleming supports the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award