Local organizations partner to provide safe haven and enrichment for young people during school holidays
SHARPEVILLE – In the heart of a community forever etched in South Africa's struggle for freedom, two faith-driven initiatives are writing a new chapter of hope and transformation. This winter, Phothiza Holdings and El-Bethel Worship Centre have once again opened their doors to local youth, providing safe spaces, nutritious meals, and life-changing opportunities during the school holidays.
Building Dreams Where History Was Made
The timing and location of these camps carry deep significance. Taking place in Sharpeville during the June holidays – commemorating Youth Day on June 16th – these programs honor the legacy of young people who stood for change while actively shaping the future of today's generation.
"We chose to have this youth winter camp commemorating what happened on the sixteenth of June," explains Portia Mawai, spokesperson for Phothiza Holdings. "What's happening right here is that we have called all our learners from grades seven up until grade 10 to come and join us for a five-day camp."
Now in their third consecutive year, both organizations have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of investing in young lives. Students who attended previous camps return with testimonies of increased confidence, improved public speaking abilities, and clearer direction for their futures.
More Than Activities – A Holistic Approach to Youth Development
The camps go far beyond entertainment, offering comprehensive programming that addresses the whole child. Phothiza Holdings has created partnerships with various stakeholders including the South African Police Service (SAPS), crime prevention wardens, social workers, and local churches to provide career guidance and life skills training.
The program features diverse learning opportunities, from museum and heritage education to web design workshops. Particularly impactful is Thursday's session with Abutu Bonyengosi Zwendi, an ex-convict who shares his story to demonstrate that "crime does not pay" and encourage young people to "choose the right path."
Faith at the Foundation
At El-Bethel Worship Centre, George emphasizes the spiritual foundation that undergirds their work. "Every morning when we start, we start with the sermon. We teach, we preach to them, and then we give the word of the day, and we pray," he shares. "Prayer is a powerful tool, and this is how we communicate and say, God, we only worship you."
The church's approach demonstrates how faith communities can effectively address social challenges. By combining spiritual nurturing with practical support – including breakfast, lunch, and food to take home – they're meeting both immediate needs and long-term development goals.
Breaking Cycles, Building Champions Both organizations recognize the critical importance of keeping young people engaged during school holidays.
Both organizations recognize the critical importance of keeping young people engaged during school holidays. "When the schools are closed, you find kids roaming around the streets without any direction," George observes. "We thought maybe in giving back to the community, let us just bring them together."
The impact extends beyond individual lives to community transformation. The Department of Sports has taken notice, partnering with the programs to identify 15 young people for golf instruction. "We don't know, maybe we can get some people here who can be the champions of the country," George notes optimistically.
Addressing Real Needs with Tangible Solutions
These practical interventions address barriers to education while demonstrating the Gospel through action. The organization welcomes donations of shoes and sanitary products, emphasizing that "we don't want anything [of] monetary value" – just tangible items that directly improve children's lives.
A Model for Community Partnership
The success of these programs demonstrates what's possible when faith communities, local organizations, and government departments work together. The camps draw participants from across the region, with some traveling from as far as Modderfontein and Sasolburg to participate.
"We are not choosing, but we would like to see the change in our country, and this is how we start," George concludes, extending an invitation for broader community involvement.
Getting Involved
Both organizations welcome community support and partnerships. Phothiza Holdings can be found on Facebook and TikTok under "Phothiza Holdings," where they post registration information for upcoming camps. All programming is provided free of charge to participants.
As these camps continue to grow, they serve as powerful reminders that lasting change happens when communities take ownership of their children's futures. In Sharpeville – a place where young people once stood against injustice – today's youth are being equipped not just to survive, but to thrive and lead.
The camps conclude with Friday's talent show, where every participant has the opportunity to express themselves. It's a fitting end to a week that celebrates each young person's unique potential and God-given gifts.
For more information about supporting these youth initiatives, contact Phothiza Holdings through their social media channels or reach out to El-Bethel Worship Centre directly.
This article was compiled from interviews conducted by Just Gospel Radio's community connections program. Just Gospel Radio can be heard live at www.justgospelradio.co.za.