determination to re-engineer whatever they want for
NYDA board. We will ensure that we touch every young person’s life, particularly the poor and working- class youth,” he adds. UJ shines bright UJ played a huge role in preparing them for later life and making their ambitions a reality, say Asanda and Lebogang. “The years spent at UJ count among my best. Having received my qualification from an institution in the centre of a cosmopolitan city like Johannesburg exposed me to constant learning, unlearning and relearning life’s fundamentals. UJ helped shape my love for knowledge and the continuous, progressive pursuit of it, says Asanda. Lebogang concurs. “Studying at UJ has been my best experience. I am still a student at the university, working towards my PhD. At UJ, the lecturers are invested in the success of their students. I have seen this in the lecturers that have taught me. I have seen them give their time over and above the call of duty.” The shape of success Asanda, who describes herself as an extreme introvert, thoroughly enjoys being in her own space despite spending half the time of her current role on public platforms. “I realised over the years that my drive has shifted with the changing dynamics and developments of my life. What used to be my driving force five years ago, for instance, is less of a factor now. Today, my inspiration for the work that I do is my 16-month-old son. Being a mother has constantly pushed me to want to strive for greater heights, with an even deeper and profound appreciation that all that we do now will either add value or be to the detriment of youth. To find success in life, Lebogang believes it is important to dream. “There is something about being able to picture yourself in a position or occupying a space. I also learned that consistency is vital – life has its ups and downs, but your ability to show up consistently is usually what makes you successful.
themselves, without any hindrances from society in dictating how they ought to comply and conform to the status quo. She emphasises that the youth are not homogenous. “Failing to understand our complexities would be a disservice. We work quite intricately with youth from rural and urban areas, youth from the LGBTQIA plus community, youth living with disabilities, and young women, to name a few. I am in a position to help and encourage all these cohorts of youth to break barriers and challenge societal norms. Lebogang works to give young people access to information and exposure to opportunities for further education, business opportunities or opportunities for employment. “A South Africa where the possibilities are endless and the invisible and visible barriers are eradicated,” she says. The NYDA act recognises the heroic struggles of generations of the youth to bring about freedom and democracy in South Africa, the centrality of the youth in the reconstruction and development of South Africa, and the responsibility of the government to take reasonable measures to achieve progressive development of South Africa’s youth. This mandate has aligned very well with her vision for the youth, Lebogang explains. Avela wants to see equal access to quality education to unlock economic opportunities for the youth. “Young people should expect a dynamic, committed and dedicated leadership from the
“UJ’s representation on the NYDA board: Ms Asanda Luwaca, Mr Avela Mjadjubana and Ms Lebogang Mulaisi.
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