The Directorate has a number of programmes designed to empower, upskill and enable young people to grab hold of future opportunities. Many programmes are also aimed at ensuring young people are active and engaged in positive after school activities.

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‘While this month shines a spotlight on youth, our Community Services and Health Directorate has a range of programmes and opportunities all year round that young people can access. Youth month is not only a commemoration of the past, but an opportunity to build on the future. I want to encourage our youth to make use of the opportunities presented. Not only are there health and social benefits to living an active lifestyle and being part of our recreational programmes, but there are also many workshops and other events aimed at empowering the youth, enabling them to learn new skills and become proficient at others,’ said Mayoral Committee Member, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

The City places a strong emphasis on youth-focused recreation and developmental programmes.  

Through initiatives like the Recreation Leadership Development Programme (RLDP), afterschool and holiday programmes, the City provides safe environments where youth can participate in recreational activities, sport and games, while developing their skills and having fun.

Between January and March 2024, the Recreation and Parks Department boasts impressive participation rates of over 31 000 for primary school learners at 45 City recreation facilities and over 7 000 for high school learners across 25 recreation facilities.

Among the sporting codes and activities are netball, basketball, soccer, dancing, indigenous games, board games, cricket, pool, E-games, aerobics and air hockey.

The Community, Arts and Culture Development Department also provides a number of ongoing opportunities, including the Rapid Employment and Development Initiative (READI); Leadership training; First Aid training, and computer literacy training.

A number of initiatives have been scheduled to coincide with Youth Month, including:

· A clothing upcycling workshop at the Woodstock Lab focusing on pattern-making basics, empowering participants to give new life to their wardrobe

· A youth holiday camp between 24 and 28 June at the Woodstock Lab

· First Aid Level one training at He & She in Parow

· Leadership training on 18 & 19 June at the Wolwerivier Hall

· Work skills training between 18 and 20 June, at Scottsdene Library

· Youth Day sport and recreational games event at Sir Lowry's Pass Sports Ground and Community Hall on 17 June from 07:00 to 16:00

· A youth netball and soccer tournament will be held at Malibu Sport Field on 16 June from 07:00 to 16:00

For any of the programmes or events listed, please contact the specific facility for further information.

Supplied by: City of Cape Town and Photo by S. H. Gue on Unsplash