Issued by George Municipality, 17 June 2025
The George Municipality successfully hosted its National Youth Day dialogue at the City Hall on Monday, June 16, 2025, bringing together young people for insightful discussions on empowerment, belonging, and future-forward initiatives.
The dialogue featured a diverse range of speakers who addressed critical issues facing today’s youth:
- Siyamthanda Johns, also representing the G20 working group for youth development, delivered an impactful address on peer empowerment, mentorship, and intergenerational wisdom. He encouraged attendees to identify meaningful connections within their lives and communities.
- Megan Cunningham led a session on developing self-awareness, prompting participants to explore their common struggles and shared strengths.
- Dr Zilla North presented the vital themes of resilience, belonging, and meaningful connections. Her session aimed to guide young people in discovering what would bring them the greatest sense of purpose and belonging across the entire George municipal area.
- Herman Pienaar presented “Bridging the Divide,” an engaging discussion on cultural differences and innovative ways to foster connection and mutual learning among diverse groups.
The dialogue concluded with Jethro Grootboom, GCIS’s regional communications coordinator, unpacking South Africa’s G20 Presidency. He highlighted the theme: “Solidarity – supporting each other for the good of humanity, equality – we all are equal partners in moving South Africa, Africa and the world forward, and Sustainability – food security through household food gardens, trade skills for renewable energy investments, and waste management to move away from dumping waste.”
The event underscored the George Municipality’s commitment to empowering its youth and fostering a future of collaboration and progress.
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