This past Youth Day, much like the one last year was a sombre one. The night before, the president had announced that the country will be going to level 3 lockdown following the rapid rise in Covid19 infections. As a result, a lot of celebrations around the country were cancelled. Also, the rise in unemployment among youth and ongoing corruption in parliament has left young South Africans feeling paralyzed with very little to hope for. This goes against what Youth Day represents and is definitely not what the youth of 1976 fought and gave up their lives for. In an attempt to lift the mood around Mzansi, some Zalebs including Mamkhize and Naymaps did their part to bring smiles to some faces.
Since he could not physically go out to inspire the youth because of restrictions, The Queen actor Nay Maps decided to pen a heartfelt message to the youth of South Africa.
“Happy Youth Day South Africa! Amongst many other things this pandemic has taken away like physical touch, the one thing I really miss is being able to attend talks where I got the opportunity to share my story and inspire the youth.” He shared in part.
“I reflect back to a few years ago when this picture was taken. The sad reality is, that the unemployment rate is increasing and the hospitality industry is on a decline so we have to do whatever we can to help the youth of today keep their dreams alive.”
Slaying as always, Mamkhize began her day by honouring the youth of 1976 and acknowledging their sacrifices. “On this special day may we never forget the sacrifice it took for us to get to where we are today. It took blood, sweat and tears for us to enjoy the freedom we have today", she said in part.
Shauwn then spent her day with young and aspiring soccer players to give them the hope that they need to keep chasing their dreams. “To the youth of South Africa, I know things are far from perfect right now. But when I see how some kids are being raised and groomed into leaders, it gives me so much hope that the future of this country is bright.”
