Education

Empowering Young Leaders Through the Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP)

The International Association for Human Values (IAHV), in partnership with the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation and Mpilo Park, successfully hosted its second Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) of 2026 from 20–26 July 2026. The programme was made possible through a collaborative partnership with Projekt Ubuntu and Masi Creative Hub, bringing together organisations and community leaders committed to empowering South Africa’s youth.

This marks the second YLTP held in the Masiphumelele community, following the successful pilot programme launched in October 2025. Building on that foundation, this year’s training continued to equip young people with the practical skills, confidence and resilience needed to become leaders within their communities.

The intensive seven-day programme combined personal transformation with practical life skills. During the first three days, participants explored tools to release stress and trauma, strengthen emotional intelligence and develop greater self-awareness through mind management techniques. The following two days focused on work readiness, employability, skills development and entrepreneurship, preparing participants for future opportunities in the workplace and beyond. The programme concluded with two inspiring days dedicated to community service, giving participants the opportunity to put their leadership into action by serving others before celebrating their achievements at the graduation ceremony.

IAHV extends its sincere gratitude to the programme’s generous sponsors and supporters, whose contributions made the training possible. These include Projekt Ubuntu, The Protea Project, The Renata Salomone Institute, Black Media, and local sponsors and contributors Claire Konemann, Derrick Rosslind, Shamiera Daniels and Ismet Amot.

A special thank you also goes to the inspirational guest speakers and industry experts who generously shared their knowledge and experience with the participants:

  • Chaira Jepta – Next Gen Gender Advocates
  • Dr Ashley Eva Millar – The Protea Project
  • Gary Cooper – Roots Interns

One of the highlights of the programme was the Pay It Forward Community Day. YLTP participants joined an Indaba hosted by Masi Creative Hub, where they presented their personal experiences of the Youth Leadership Training Program to members of their community. The graduates also played an active role in supporting the event through marshalling, serving food and assisting with community gardening activities, demonstrating the importance of leadership through service.

Candice Horgan Ryan was invited to participate as a panellist during the Indaba, which was attended by approximately 200 community members. The event provided an opportunity for the graduates to share their journeys while inspiring others to recognise the potential that exists within their own community.

After seven transformative days, 25 young leaders graduated from the programme, each equipped with practical skills, renewed confidence and a stronger sense of purpose. These graduates now join a growing network of YLTP alumni who are committed to creating positive change in their own lives, their communities and society as a whole.

At IAHV, we believe that when young people are empowered with the right tools, guidance and opportunities, they become catalysts for lasting social transformation. We congratulate all 25 graduates on this important milestone and look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will continue to make.

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YLTP Graduates Excel in Home Based Care Examinations

The International Association for Human Values (IAHV) South Africa is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Ayabonga Mde and Vathiswa Guwata, who successfully completed their Home Based Care examinations, both passing with distinction on 21 July 2026.

Ayabonga and Vathiswa are part of the second group of Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) graduates to participate in the Home Based Care, Health Assistant and First Aid Skills Development Programme. Their exceptional results reflect their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

As they begin their practical placements in their respective departments to complete their certification, we wish them every success in this next phase of their journey. We are confident that the knowledge and skills they have gained will enable them to serve their communities with compassion, professionalism, and care.

Congratulations once again, Ayabee and Vathiswa! Your achievement is an inspiration, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact you will continue to make in your communities.

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Breath Water Sound Workshop at Jeppe Phakamisa Ubuntu

The International Association for Human Values (IAHV) is proud to be part of an ongoing collaboration with the Jeppe Phakamisa Ubuntu (JPU) community programme, coordinated by the School of Practical Philosophy (SPP).

JPU has been serving children in the Jeppe community for more than 25 years and is open to all children living in the area. Earlier this year, IAHV volunteers approached JPU with the idea of introducing the Breath Water Sound (BWS) Programme to complement the activities already offered. The proposal was warmly received and supported by the JPU team.

The JPU BWS Project began on 7 March 2026 and continues successfully through weekly follow-up sessions.

Each week brings a unique experience, with children responding positively to the calming practices and enjoying the interaction with volunteers. Activities introduced through the programme include storytelling, simple seated yoga stretches, breathing and mindfulness exercises, singing, and interactive group activities.

Looking ahead, the volunteers plan to introduce more songs and interactive activities, build a shared repertoire of music and wellbeing practices, and encourage participation in age-appropriate community service projects.

A special thank you to the dedicated volunteers who have made this initiative possible:

  • Leila Lewis – IAHV Volunteer and BWS Facilitator
  • Shivani Ramgovind – IAHV Volunteer and BWS Facilitator
  • Aradhana Bageloo – IAHV Volunteer and BWS Facilitator
  • Sarita Devchand – IAHV Volunteer and Art of Living Teacher
  • Manoj Dayal – IAHV Volunteer and Art of Living Teacher

Well done to the entire team for your dedication, effort, and perseverance in bringing these valuable tools and experiences to the children of Jeppe.

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Breath Water Sound Workshop at Cape Town Trauma Centre

A recent Breath Water Sound (BWS) Workshop was held at the Cape Town Trauma Centre with Marguerite and Merinda, bringing together 20 phenomenal social workers for a deeply meaningful experience.

Teaching BWS continues to be a journey of expanded awareness, deep transformation, and a joy that is often difficult to put into words. During the workshop, these beautiful and inspiring individuals opened themselves fully to the present moment with courage, openness, and genuine joy.

Experiences like these are a powerful reminder of the impact of breath, presence, healing, and human connection.

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Empowering Young Minds in Barrydale: A Transformational Breath Water Sound Program

At the heart of IAHV SA’s work lies a simple yet powerful intention: to nurture resilient, confident, and compassionate individuals—starting with our youth.

This vision came to life once again in the small town of Barrydale, where a recent Breath Water Sound (BWS) Program brought together 18 children from Grade 2 to Grade 7 at Bright Haven NPO, based at BFO Primary School.

A Journey Through the Elements

Each child arrived with their own unique story—different challenges, personalities, and ways of engaging with the world. Over the course of five days, they were gently guided through an experiential journey rooted in the wisdom of the five elements.

Through breath, they discovered moments of stillness—often for the first time.
Through water, they explored adaptability and the beauty of going with the flow.
Through sound, they found their voice and a safe space for self-expression.
Earth offered grounding and stability, while fire ignited energy, confidence, and enthusiasm.

What unfolded was not just a workshop, but a transformation.

Learning Through Joy

The program was filled with laughter, connection, and discovery. What may have looked like simple games became powerful lessons in teamwork and trust. Light-hearted activities opened doors to deeper focus and awareness.

Yoga sessions helped restless bodies slow down and settle. Guided meditations created rare moments of quiet—something many of these children seldom experience in their daily environments.

Reflections from the Classroom

Teacher Elizabeth Beer, who witnessed the journey firsthand, shared how meaningful the experience was:

“Each child arrived carrying their own challenges, their own rhythms, their own way of seeing the world. Over five days, something shifted—there was more calm, more connection, and a new sense of confidence.”

Planting Seeds for the Future

Programs like Breath Water Sound do more than offer temporary relief—they plant lasting seeds. Seeds of emotional resilience, self-awareness, and inner strength that children can carry with them into their homes, schools, and communities.

As these young participants return to their daily lives, they do so with new tools to navigate stress, build positive relationships, and express themselves with confidence.

And in that quiet transformation, a stronger, more compassionate future begins.

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Empowering Ocean View Youth Through Leadership & Service

Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP) – Ocean View, Cape Town

Last week, a powerful Youth Leadership Training Programme (YLTP) unfolded in Ocean View, Cape Town — bringing together 25 young leaders and changemakers for a deeply transformative experience.

This impactful programme was delivered in partnership with IAHV and Count of Eight Entertainment, with a shared vision: to empower youth with the tools, confidence, and purpose to uplift their communities.

A Programme Rooted in Purpose

The YLTP is a globally recognised initiative by IAHV, designed to channel youth energy into nation-building, leadership, and service.

In Ocean View, the programme focused on three core pillars:

  • Personal Development

    Building self-awareness, emotional resilience, and inner strength

  • Work Enablement & Skills Development

    Equipping participants with practical tools for employability and leadership

  • Paying It Forward

    Inspiring participants to give back and uplift their own communities

From Learning to Leadership in Action

What makes this programme truly powerful is what happens next.

All 25 participants successfully graduated — and are now stepping into leadership roles within their own community.

As part of their commitment, they will be:

✨ Facilitating stress relief and trauma release workshops

✨ Sharing practical tools for emotional wellbeing

✨ Creating positive ripple effects within Ocean View

This transition from participant to community leader is at the heart of YLTP’s long-term impact.

A Holistic & Experiential Journey

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in a dynamic and interactive learning experience that included:

  • Leadership development and communication skills

  • Teamwork and collaboration

  • Exposure to industry insights and real-world perspectives

  • Movement-based practices such as Capoeira, encouraging expression, confidence, and connection

  • Practical tools for managing stress and trauma

The programme created a safe and empowering space for young people to grow — both individually and collectively.

Community at the Heart

This YLTP is a powerful reminder that real change happens within communities.

It brought together facilitators, mentors, and local leaders — all united by a shared intention to uplift and empower youth in Ocean View.

And most importantly, it highlighted the incredible potential of young people when they are given the right tools, guidance, and support.

Building the Future, One Leader at a Time

The Ocean View YLTP is more than a training programme — it is a movement of transformation.

By nurturing resilience, leadership, and a spirit of service, IAHV continues to support the development of young leaders who are ready to create meaningful, lasting change.

Because as the saying goes:

“It takes a village.”

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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

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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.

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Breath Water Sound Workshop at Bright Haven, Barrydale

Twenty Bright Haven youth participated in the BWS workshop from the 19-23 January 2026 as part of their daily learning and wellbeing programme.

Participants reported that the practice helped them feel better, calmer, and more settled in their bodies. Many experienced improved focus and emotional regulation after the sessions.

Through BWS, the youth also learned about the five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space – and how these elements relate to their bodies, emotions, and the natural world. This learning supported self-awareness, grounding, and a deeper respect for nature and balance within themselves.

Overall, the BWS workshop proved to be a powerful, accessible tool for enhancing wellbeing, emotional expression, and holistic learning among the Bright Haven youth.

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Winter Packs Charity Drive Update

With heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors, we are pleased to share the continuation of our Winter Packs Charity Drive. Each pack includes a beanie, gloves, scarf, and packets of soup—essentials to help keep children warm and nourished during the colder months.

This year, the packs were distributed to two schools in Lenasia:

  • Zodiac Primary School (Extension 9): Received packets of soup to support their school feeding scheme, as beanies and gloves had already been provided by another kind donor.
  • Shari Crescent Primary School (Extension 10): Received full winter packs including gloves, beanie, and scarf.

We are deeply thankful to all who contributed and helped make this possible. Your generosity continues to warm hearts and homes.

Project Leader: Manisha Narayan

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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).

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