How YearBeyond is shaping future leaders in Mitchell’s Plain
YearBeyond alumni facilitator from Mitchell's Plain, Aasiyah Abrahams with pupils of Aloe High School.
Image: Supplied
The youth in Mitchell's Plain are finding opportunities to grow, lead, and make a meaningful difference in their communities through YearBeyond.
The youth development organisation that runs programmes across various communities in the country, including Mitchell’s Plain, gives youth the chance to gain work experience, develop valuable skills, and contribute to initiatives that support education, literacy, well-being, and youth development.
Locally, YearBeyond programmes run in schools and community spaces, offering support for early childhood development, digital access, life skills, and leadership initiatives.
Bronwyn February, YearBeyond Shukuma coordinator and mentor, said the programme encourages young people to take on responsibility, develop leadership, and prepare for the workforce, while recognising them as active citizens shaping social change.
YearBeyond alumni facilitators from Mitchell's Plain, from left are, Aasiyah Abrahams, Sasha-Leigh Ismail and Emmanuel Kulashe.
Image: Supplied
The programmes available in the area include the Shukuma Programme, Scouting in Schools, environmental awareness, Catch Up academic support, Libraries Programme, and Early Childhood Development (ECD) support.
Former participants say the programme has had a lasting impact. Chloe Brink, from Westridge, said her experience in the Shukuma programme strengthened her understanding of mentorship and peer leadership.
“Working alongside like-minded youth showed me that meaningful change starts with personal growth and extends to the wider community,” she said.
Yushrah Khatieb from Rondevlei Park, now a social worker at the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre, described how YearBeyond helped her step into professional life.
“Shukuma gave me experience in group facilitation, professionalism, and working in environments with limited resources. It was my first work experience after graduating, and it built my confidence, preparing me for my current role,” she said.
Young people interested in education, community work, and social impact are encouraged to explore YearBeyond opportunities. More information is available at www.yearbeyond.org
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