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By Cynthia Nkgudi
The spirit of unity, pride and remembrance filled the air as young people from Ga-Masemola village and surrounding areas came together to celebrate Youth Day in vibrant style.
Their 1060 Youth Day Walk event, as it is affectionately known, drew scores of youth from neighbouring villages. It was a powerful blend of celebration, reflection and inspiration. The community-driven event, that was founded and coordinated by Jason Masemola back in 2022 with the aim of honouring the legacy of the youth of 1976 is now empowering the current generation in many.
“As a founder and a head coordinator of the 1060 Youth Day walk, I have realised that the initiative has grown into an annual platform that promotes youth development, community unity, active citizenship and remembrance. This year marked a major milestone as we celebrated the 5th anniversary alongside the national commemoration of 50 years of June 16” said Masemola.
He said the event celebrated the historic moment that honours the courage and sacrifice of 1976 youth.
“ The celebration began with our annual 5km morning walk, bringing together community members, stakeholders, youth, leaders, and invited guests in a spirit of remembrance, unity and empowerment. The walk was followed by a vibrant programme of educational and cultural activities. Learners participated in poetry, music, and dance performances that paid tribute to the legacy of 1976 generation. We were also privileged to host the South African Police Service K9 Dog Unit which conducted demonstrations for learners while educating them on safety, responsible decision- making and the dangers of drugs and substance abuse,” he said.
Among those who attended the event was model Patricia Rammutla who is currently Miss International Youth Tourism Ambassador Botseetse Kgaphola another beauty queen who is the current Miss South Africa Disability, Mulalo Maphutha (Thuba Pelo Mosadi Woman of Worth Award Winner) and Boitumelo Ramanyeme (Miss Lepelle-Nkumpi Schools Director).
The significance of the 1060 Youth Day Walk, according to Masemola, lies in the preserving and honouring of the legacy of the youth of 1976, whose courage and determination contributed in shaping the democratic South Africa we know today.
“As we commemorate 50 years of June 16, it remains important that young people understand the history, sacrifices and values that continue to influence our society. Our theme for this year was ’50 years remembered, 5 years empowered,” he said.
The initiative also serves as a platform to inspire the current generation to become active participants in their communities, pursue education, embrace leadership opportunities and contribute positively to society. By combining remembrance with youth empowerment, the 1060 Youth Day Walk ensures that the lessons of the past continue to guide the leaders of tomorrow” He indicated, further outlining their key objectives “ It was to broaden the reach of the initiative by involving the schools from outside the immediate Ga-Masemola area and strengthening relationships with stakeholders, local businesses and community partners. We also sought to create a meaningful platform where young people could learn, engage and celebrate their heritage while fostering unity across different communities” He said
“ We were able to expand our reach beyond Ga-Masemola by welcoming schools from neighbouring communities including: BonegaMadikubung Primary School from Ga-Moretsele village in Jane Furse and Kgahlana Morulana Secondary School from Eenzam in Ngwaritsi Village. Their participation demonstrated the growing impact of the initiative and reinforced the values of unity, collaboration and youth development. The positive response from attendees and partners affirmed that the event continues to fulfil its mission and purpose,” he said.
