As South Africa commemorates Youth Day and honours the courage and sacrifice of the class of 1976, some of the country’s most recognisable personalities are encouraging young people to embrace their individuality, pursue their dreams and remember that meaningful change often begins with small, everyday actions.
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Zanele Potelwa (Radio personality and Tropika Island Of Treasure host): “Make Space for Your Gift.”
Potelwa encourages young people to treat their talents with professional intent. “If I could give words of wisdom to the young people out there, it would be make space for your gift,” says Potelwa. “When I say make space for your gift, I mean give it your all. Every opportunity that comes your way, even the small ones that you get to create for yourself, be it one video, be it starting a small tuck shop, be it offering a service to a friend or family or whatever it may be, or someone actually giving you a big opportunity, make space for your gift by working hard, allowing yourself to grow and staying curious,” the Tropika Island Of Treasure host continues. “Everything we need is within us. All we’ve got to do is trust God, keep pushing and allow the best version of ourselves to win.”
DJ Ankletap (Jacaranda FM radio host): “Your Journey is Yours Alone.”
For Jacaranda FM personality DJ Ankletap, one of the most important lessons young people can learn is that comparison can often rob them of their own unique path. “If there’s one thing I want young people to remember, it’s that the journey of your life doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s,” he says. “It’s your own life, so don’t be afraid to take different paths and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are important. You’ll learn from them. The radio DJ adds “The world will test you and people will always have opinions about who you should be, but your greatest superpower is being authentically yourself. Happy Youth Day and keep chasing your dreams.”
Kriya Gangiah (Media personality, broadcaster and businesswoman): “Every Step Forward Matters.”
Kriya Gangiah believes progress is rarely built overnight and that young South Africans should never underestimate the impact of small actions. “As we honour the young people who came before us and fought for a better future, we are reminded that progress is built one step at a time,” she says. “To the youth of South Africa: keep believing in yourself, keep chasing your goals and never underestimate the power of your voice. Every idea, every effort and every step forward matters.” She adds, “Change doesn’t always happen in giant leaps. Sometimes it starts with showing up, choosing to keep going, helping someone else, speaking up for what you believe in or refusing to give up on your dreams.”
Bolele Polisa (Radio personality): “Don’t Lose Your Fire.”
Radio personality Bolele Polisa says today’s struggles may look different to those faced by the youth of 1976, but the need for courage and conviction remains unchanged. “If there’s one thing that I’ve noticed about some youth members, it’s that we’re losing the fire,” she says. “The fire within is literally the difference that brings our dreams to life. The struggle continues. It may take a different face from what it was in 1976, but it continues and it needs us to reignite the fire within. The fire within is what is going to help us stand up for what is right. It is what will help us recognise what is possible for us and ultimately bring our dreams to life.”
Sandile Mahlangu (Actor): “Reflect, Celebrate, and Lead.”
Sandile Mahlangu encourages young people to reflect on the significance of Youth Day and the legacy left behind by previous generations. “I want to wish a happy Youth Day to the entire youth of South Africa,” the Tropika Island of Treasure contestant says. “Take some time to reflect on this day and the youth of 1976 who shaped the landscape of South Africa for the better. I want you to know that you have the potential to do the same. You are the ones who can change the country for the better as we move forward. Celebrate this day because it is a powerful one.”
Jonathan Boynton-Lee (Actor and presenter): “Authenticity is Your Greatest Strength.”
Actor, television presenter and media personality Jonathan Boynton-Lee believes young people should spend less time trying to blend in and more time embracing the qualities that make them unique. “Don’t spend your youth trying to fit in,” the Top Billing presenter says. “Spend it discovering what makes you different and turning that into your strength. The world rewards authenticity far more than conformity.” Boynton-Lee believes individuality should be celebrated rather than hidden. “In a world where social media often encourages comparison, there can be pressure to follow the crowd or become a version of yourself that others expect. But some of the most successful and fulfilled people are those who have embraced what makes them different and used it as a source of confidence and creativity. Authenticity isn’t something to be afraid of, it’s often your greatest advantage. The things that set you apart today may very well become the qualities that define your success tomorrow.”
These messages serve as a timely reminder that South Africa’s youth are not only inheritors of a hard-won legacy but also architects of the nation’s future. By nurturing their gifts, embracing authenticity, taking consistent steps, and keeping their inner fire alive, young South Africans are encouraged to overcome obstacles and create meaningful impact.
Image Courtesy: Supplied
