Empowering the Youth through Tourism: A Community Engagement Initiative

In June each year, Mangaung, Free State Province, South Africa commemorates the 47th anniversary of the 1976 student uprising. This historical moment has inspired a new initiative to empower and uplift the youth of today through tourism. The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Small Business Development and the Free State Department of Economic Development, Small Business, Tourism, and Environment Affairs (DESTEA), has announced a community engagement event to discuss opportunities for upskilling and empowering the youth in the tourism sector.

The Event Details

Scheduled for June 22nd, 2023, the community engagement event will take place at the Samson Sefuthi Hall in Botshabelo, Mangaung Metro Municipality. Deputy Ministers Mr. Fish Mahlalela of Tourism and Ms. Dipuo Peters of Small Business Development will lead the event alongside executives of the Mangaung Metro Municipality.

The Purpose of the Event

The community engagement event aims to empower and uplift young people to pursue sustainable livelihoods through business ideas, innovation, and government-led programs. The event will also inspire the youth to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the overall economy.

The Importance of the Tourism Sector

The tourism sector is a vital contributor to the economy and a source of job opportunities. This sector has the potential to play a crucial role in empowering the youth. The community engagement event aims to build on this potential. It will help young people identify and capitalize on the opportunities available in the tourism sector.

The Event Features

Participants in the community engagement event will exchange thoughts, ideas, and experiences. They will discuss practical aspects of upskilling and employment opportunities. The event will delve into the historical and artistic movements that have shaped the nation. The initiative aims to create a well-rounded and sophisticated perspective on the endless possibilities that the tourism sector can unlock for the youth.

The Impact of the Event

The community engagement event is an essential step in bridging the gap between the youth and the tourism sector. This initiative hopes to ignite a passion for tourism within the youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities necessary to drive change and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the economy. With the support of government programs and collaborations, the potential impact of this event could extend far beyond just the Free State Province, inspiring a nation and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.