Change

Empowering Youth Through Leadership & Inner Transformation

IAHV South Africa x Artscape Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP)

From 9–15 March 2026, a powerful collaboration between Artscape and IAHV brought together young people from across Cape Town for a deeply transformative Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP).

This 7-day immersive experience was designed to equip youth with the inner resilience, practical skills, and leadership mindset needed to thrive — not only personally, but within their communities.

A Collaboration for Impact

Initiated by Artscape, this programme focused on empowering youth within local communities, particularly those with limited access to opportunities. Together with IAHV, the shared vision was clear:

  • Build stress and mind management tools

  • Develop authentic leadership skills

  • Encourage community outreach and service

  • Strengthen work-readiness and employability

Hosted at Artscape (Room 207), the venue sponsorship created a safe, inspiring environment for deep learning and connection.

A Powerful 7-Day Journey

Running daily from 08h00 to 17h30 (including the weekend), the programme delivered an intensive 63 hours of skills development.

The journey unfolded as follows:

  • Days 1–3: Stress management & self-development

  • Days 4–5: Mind mastery & mindfulness practices

  • Day 6: Leadership in action & community outreach

  • Day 7: Graduation, reflections, guest engagement, and commitment to 11-month follow-up support

Facilitated by Sharmaine Naidoo and Marguerite Holtzhausen, the programme combined practical tools, experiential learning, and deep inner work.

The programme was further supported by 7 YLTP graduates and 2 IAHV volunteers, creating a strong peer-led and supportive learning environment.

From 250 Applications to 27 Graduates

Interest in the programme was overwhelming, with over 250 applications received.

  • 40 applicants were invited to a meet-and-greet

  • 27 participants committed to and completed the full programme

Participants were sourced through Artscape, alumni networks, and community connections across Cape Town — ensuring a diverse and dynamic group of young leaders.

Real Voices, Real Transformation

The true impact of YLTP is best captured through the voices of its participants:

“My experience was absolutely transformative. I adored the facilitators and the other participants. I’ve learnt the importance of breath and how to control my anxiety. I truly appreciate the opportunity of learning in such a beautiful setting with beautiful people.”

– Rushile

“This program taught me that leadership begins with changing yourself and serving others. Coming from a small town in the Karoo where opportunities are limited, I realised that one person with courage and compassion can inspire real change.”

– Elreza

“The YLTP helped me control my emotions and understand why breathing is so important. I feel lighter than before. It also taught me commitment. I learnt powerful breathing techniques like SKY and Power Breath.”

– Libala

Read more

Breath Water Sound (BWS) Workshop for Home-Based Carers – District Six, Cape Town

A recent Breath Water Sound (BWS) workshop was held at 128 Chapel Street in District Six, Cape Town, facilitated by our dedicated BWS teacher, Marguerite. The program was offered to a group of home-based carers — individuals who tirelessly serve others in their communities.

Over the course of the workshop, participants were introduced to practical breathing techniques and stress-relief tools designed to support emotional balance, mental clarity, and overall wellbeing. For caregivers who are constantly giving to others, the program created a much-needed space to pause, recharge, and reconnect with themselves.

The feedback shared by participants reflected meaningful and tangible shifts in their daily lives. Reported benefits included:

  • Increased energy, including feeling motivated to clean the house early in the morning
  • Finding one’s voice and feeling more confident in self-expression
  • Release of bodily pain, with a sense of calm and deep relaxation
  • Experiencing moments of mental stillness and “no thoughts”
  • Greater calmness in interactions with their children
  • Waking up before the alarm feeling refreshed
  • Reduced fatigue after work

These simple yet profound changes highlight the powerful impact of Breath Water Sound in supporting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

By equipping caregivers with practical tools for resilience and wellbeing, BWS continues to strengthen not only individuals, but the families and communities they serve.

Read more

Breath Water Sound Workshop at Amakhaya Ngoku Community Centre, Masiphumelele, Cape Town

In October last year, 40 graduates from the Presidential National Youth Service Programme participated in IAHV’s Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) in Masiphumelele Township, Western Cape. The training was conducted under the directive of Masi Creative Hub (MCH) and formed a powerful partnership between IAHV, Masi Creative Hub, and Projekt Ubuntu — two local grassroots organisations. The program was facilitated by senior teacher and trainer Neeraj Kalan.

Thirty youth successfully graduated from the program and identified eight key focus areas to address the challenges within their community. As part of their training, they were also equipped to facilitate the Breath Water Sound (BWS) Program, empowering them to teach practical stress-relief techniques and respond to the high levels of violence affecting the area.

With ongoing mentorship and support from IAHV, Masi Creative Hub, and Projekt Ubuntu, these young leaders are now actively engaged in community initiatives. Their projects address critical needs such as nutrition and food gardens, sports and youth activities, employment and skills development, and trauma relief following disasters.

On 16 February, the first Breath Water Sound Workshop of the year was hosted at the Amakhaya Ngoku Community Centre in Masiphumelele. The four-day workshop was facilitated by BWS teacher Candice, together with YLTP graduate Phumza Pitoyi, and was attended by 15 parents. The venue was generously sponsored by Projekt Ubuntu and Masi Creative Hub, who also provided additional facilitation around nutrition and food gardening.

The week concluded with a graduation ceremony for all women participants, along with a shared commitment to weekly follow-up sessions and collaborative service projects to address ongoing community challenges. During the workshop, two food gardens were planted — a powerful reflection of the program’s philosophy that Breath Water Sound is not only about inner peace, but also about meaningful action.

Participants reported a wide range of benefits, including peace of mind, greater harmony at home, increased patience with family members, reduced stress and anxiety, improved overall wellbeing, and even relief from physical pain. Stress turned into smiles, and challenges no longer felt overwhelming.

Through the network of YLTP graduates, a full annual program of monthly Breath Water Sound courses and follow-up sessions is now in place. This week served as a powerful reminder of the impact BWS can have at a community level — empowering young people to become change agents and equipping communities with practical tools to address some of the country’s most pressing challenges.

Read more

Smile Senior Citizen In Cape Town

On Saturday, 23 August 2005, IAHV SA Inspired Volunteers under the project Smile Senior Citizens (SSC) hosted 150 senior citizens to a movie morning. We viewed Greytown Girl. Everyone enjoyed their own popcorn and soda, and shared touching stories with each other. It all happened at Cine Centre, Grand West, Cape Town. Thank you, AB Moosa,, the management and staff of Cine Centre.

Smile Senior Citizens does three things. We provide meals and entertainment and bless our senior citizens. Join us in putting a smile on the faces of our senior citizens.

For more information, contact Shirish Soni on 0824198818 or Ruweida Soni on 0733467744.

Read more

Breathing New Life at Wits: BWS Course Inspires Calm and Connection

On 15 May 2025, BWS teachers Nisha, Vigie, and Mafere successfully facilitated a Breath-Water-Sound (BWS) workshop at Wits University, with 24 participants joining the session.

The atmosphere was one of transformation and tranquility. Many participants expressed feeling calm, relaxed, and emotionally lighter after the session. One woman shared a particularly powerful testimony—she usually struggles with anger, but for the first time in a long while, she felt noticeably calmer. Her husband even noticed the shift, asking her what she had been doing differently.

Another participant, navigating personal hardships, expressed deep gratitude, describing the session as a source of profound peace in a difficult time.

There was a strong sense of community and enthusiasm in the group, with many participants eager to share their experiences. Several mentioned they would invite friends to the next BWS session and expressed a sincere desire to attend again.

As a heartfelt gesture of care, and in conjunction with IAHV’s ongoing Blanket Drive, each participant also received a warm blanket to take home.

This BWS course is part of IAHV’s broader commitment to emotional resilience and community upliftment, and the team is inspired to continue bringing more such impactful programs to those who need them most.

Stay tuned for upcoming sessions—and join us in breathing new life into our communities.

Read more

Pensioners Day at The Nelson Mandela Youth Centre

Another great event was held at the Nelson Mandela Youth Centre in collaboration with The Art of Living (sister organisation of IAHV), Revolution Motor Cycle and a group of attorneys.

On Saturday 16 December , over 300 pensioners were treated to a day of fun, dance, delicious food, games, singing and comedy.

Everyone left with a gift bag and a vanity bag packed with wonderful items including a watch.

Our volunteers did a sterling job in ensuring every request was taken care of.

. .

Read more

Smile Senior Citizens in KZN

The Smile Senior Citizens (SSC) project run by Mr. Shirish Soni held an event in KZN for the Association for the Aged (TAFTA) on the 15 January 2024. 

The seniors were treated to a very special event. They were served with delicious meals, entertained with music and dancing.

.

Read more

The Inspiring Heath Science Studies (IHSS) Project at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital

The Inspiring Health Science Studies (IHSS) team spent a heart-warming day at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital on Friday 14 July.

The teams mission was 100% fulfilled.  They served a community in need, learnt and engaged with both patients and medical staff.  The next stop is Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

The IHSS is calling on grade 10 and grade 11 students to join the team and make a difference to others.

IHSS = A youth –led initiative to make a difference.

Read more

United Technical Equipment Co. (Pty) Ltd. – Hamper Project in Gauteng

This project in Partnership with United Technical Equipment Co. (Pty) Ltd. (UTEC), Mr.Vernon Kistan the CEO of UTEC runs a Food Hamper Campaign every year.

1000 boxes of food hampers are packed and distributed to those in need.  UTEC distributes the food hampers to various Church groups, shelters and for the destitute in Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Soweto and many other surrounding areas.

Previously volunteers assisted in packaging of the hampers, but due to Covid 19 the packaging was outsourced.

The Ikageng Itireleng People’s Centre in Orlando West, Soweto, was one of the beneficiary to receive the food hampers.

Read more

IAHV’s aim to align itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS)

As many of you are aware IAHV frst received its United Nations NGO status through its incorporation in Geneva in 1997. IAHV is in consultative status with the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOC) of theUnited Nations (UN), and participates in a variety of committees and activities, related to health and conflict resolution.

Internationally and as guided, IAHV’s aim is to align itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS).

Set forward by the United Nations (UN) in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) are a collection of 17 global goals aimed at improving the planet and the quality of human life around the world. The call-to-action for people worldwide is to address the critical areas of importance by 2030: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. IAHV, as guided by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, will focus on these 5 key areas by adopting 7 of the 17 SDGS’s to execute as follows:

IAHV SA will begin the process of aligning all its project and programs to meet the above goals. In the coming months we will reect this on our website and project proposals, categorising all our programs & projects accordingly.

Read more

IAHV South Africa

The International Association for Human Values (IAHV) is a worldwide organisation with a mission to make the world a better place by fostering globally the values that unite us as a human community.

IAHV holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

Projects

  1.
    Wellness Market Day | YLTP Fundraiser
    Campaign has ended
  2. Christmas Day Lunch for the Homeless
    Campaign has ended
  3. Kan Jy Dans (KJD): Inspiring Youth Leadership Through Dance

Copyright © 2026. IAHV, South Africa | Privacy Policy | Website by Virtual Web Assist