On 22 June, the Department of Tourism, in conjunction with the Department of Small Business Development and the Free State Department of Economic Development, Small Business, Tourism and Environment Affairs (DESTEA), organized a community engagement event in Botshabelo, Mangaung. The aim was to provide the youth of Botshabelo with opportunities to upskill and empower themselves in the tourism sector.
Government Programs to Empower Communities
The event was led by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Fish Mahlalela, and Deputy Minister of Small Business Development, Ms. Dipuo Peters, along with executives from the Mangaung Metro Municipality. The officials stressed the significance of government programs in uplifting communities, rejuvenating local economies, and creating sustainable opportunities for all.
Inspiring Youth to Pursue Sustainable Livelihoods
This community engagement aimed to inspire and uplift young people to pursue sustainable livelihoods through innovative business ideas and government-led programs that unlock opportunities and enable them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the overall economy.
Youth Month Celebrations
The tourism engagement took place as South Africa celebrated Youth Month in June under the theme “Accelerating youth economic emancipation for a sustainable future.” This year marked the 47th anniversary of the 1976 student uprising, which led to the liberation of South Africa.
Venue and Attendance
The event was held at Samson Sefuthi Hall (N section) Botshabelo, Mangaung Metro Municipality, Free State Province, and was open to media attendance. Journalists were requested to confirm their attendance in advance to ensure a smooth and well-organized event.
Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future
The collaboration between the Department of Tourism, the Department of Small Business Development, and DESTEA demonstrated a concerted effort to create a sustainable future for the youth of Botshabelo. By hosting this event, the government aimed to emphasize the importance of their programs in uplifting communities, fostering innovation, and revitalizing local economies for the betterment of all.
Unlocking Opportunities for the Youth
The community engagement served as an avenue for the youth to explore sustainable livelihoods through creative business ideas and government-led programs. These initiatives unlock opportunities for young people, enabling them to make a positive impact on their communities and contribute to the overall economy.
Power of Youth in Shaping the Future
As South Africa marked Youth Month, the event was a timely reminder of the power of young people in shaping the future of the country. The celebration of the 1976 student uprising highlighted the resilience and determination of the youth in fighting for a liberated South Africa. Today, their efforts are channeled towards creating a more sustainable and economically emancipated future.
Government-Community Partnership
This tourism engagement in Botshabelo serves as an example of how the government can partner with local communities to create opportunities for the youth. By providing them with the necessary skills and resources, young people can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the growth of their communities and the overall economy.
