@mj_stillz: Today, I had the privilege of spending the day at David Makhubo Secondary School in Tembisa, where we hosted a career expo aimed at inspiring young minds to dream beyond the limits of their circumstances and to believe in the power of education to transform their futures. As we spoke to learners about the many career paths available to them, shared information about university access, and encouraged them to pursue their ambitions relentlessly, I was reminded of something truly important: our young people are not short of potential. They are filled with talent, curiosity, intelligence, and hope. Sometimes, all they need is someone to show them what is possible. The day was beautiful, but what stood out most was not the presentations, the information booths, or even the conversations about careers. What left the deepest impression on me was the courage displayed by a group of learners who took to the stage to deliver a powerful and timely message in solidarity with the women of South Africa who continue to fall victim to violence and femicide. Their message was simple, heartfelt, and direct: NO TO FEMICIDE. These were not rehearsed political speeches. They were genuine cries from young people who are witnessing the challenges facing our society and who are brave enough to say that enough is enough. One young woman, in particular, demonstrated remarkable courage when she went beyond addressing femicide and challenged fellow learners who engage in bullying at the school. Her message highlighted an uncomfortable truth: violence does not begin with murder. It often begins with disrespect, intimidation, cruelty, and the normalization of harmful behaviour. What she delivered was more than a speech. It was a call for accountability, compassion, and change. Listening to these learners, I could not help but reflect on the role all of us play in shaping the next generation. To the parents and guardians who neglect the responsibility of teaching young people respect, empathy, and personal accountability, we must understand that this responsibility cannot be outsourced. Schools can educate, communities can guide, but the foundations of character are built at home. When we fail to teach our children how to respect others, resolve conflict peacefully, and value human life, we do a disservice not only to them but to society as a whole. Raising upright citizens begins long before adulthood. It starts at this age, in our homes, classrooms, and communities. To the courageous learners who stood before their peers and spoke out today, I want to say this: I see you. I hear you. I applaud you. Your bravery gives hope. Your willingness to confront difficult issues demonstrates leadership beyond your years. Never believe that your voice is too small or that your message does not matter. Real change has always begun with ordinary people who found the courage to speak when it was easier to remain silent. May your voices not fall on deaf ears. May your message reach those who need to hear it most. May we, as adults, honour your courage by taking meaningful action against violence, bullying, abuse, and femicide. A society that listens to its young people is a society with a future. Today, the learners of David Makhubo Secondary School reminded us all that the future is watching, the future is speaking, and the future is demanding better from us. Their voices matter. Their lives matter. No to Femicide. #fyp #viralvideotiktok #trending #WomenOfTikTok #womenforchange #justice #mzansi#mzansitiktok#southafrica#cityofjohannesburg#ekurhuleni#tembisa#tembisatiktok #sama28 @saps_officials

Dr Mabuza | Botanist

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Region: ZA

Thursday 17 September 2026 13:27:30 GMT