Empowerment Archives - IAHV South Africa

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.

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.

Celebrating Mandela Day 2026 Through Service and Togetherness

Mandela Day 2026 was celebrated on Saturday, 18 July, by the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), together with graduates of the Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP), IAHV teachers and volunteers, through a beautiful day of service at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town.

Inspired by the spirit of Ubuntu and Nelson Mandela’s legacy of selfless service, volunteers came together to make a meaningful contribution to the community. The day was filled with compassion, teamwork and the joy that comes from serving others.

One of the highlights of the celebration is a breathtaking video, beautifully compiled by Mandla Boqwana, an IAHV YLTP Graduate and Youth Leader. The video captures the energy, smiles and heartfelt moments that made the day so special, allowing everyone to experience the true Spirit of Giving that inspired the initiative.

Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to create lasting change. Through service, we strengthen our communities, uplift one another and honour the values that Mandela Day represents.

Watch the video below and experience the Spirit of Giving for yourself.

Together, we celebrate life, inspire hope and make a meaningful difference.

Growing Together at the 1860 Heritage Centre

As part of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s 70th birthday celebrations and in honour of 45 years of the Art of Living, volunteers from the International Association for Human Values (IAHV) and the Art of Living have come together to support the ongoing care of the 1860 Heritage Centre in Durban.

The 1860 Heritage Centre is a unique museum dedicated to the pioneers who journeyed from India to South Africa between 1860 and 1911. It stands as a proud testimony to their courage, determination and sacrifice, preserving the history and legacy of a community that helped shape South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Durban on Derby Street, the Centre serves as an important place of remembrance, education and community connection.

Our volunteer initiative aims to assist with the cleaning and maintenance of the Centre’s gardens and outdoor spaces. The vision includes upgrading the garden, planting trees and flowers, and creating a welcoming environment with features such as a garden bench for visitors to enjoy.

In May, a garden hosepipe was donated to the 1860 Heritage Centre to support the ongoing development and maintenance of the garden. What began as a small act of service by our volunteer, Kaveri Padayachee, has steadily grown, one step at a time.

Kaveri has generously dedicated her time, energy and expertise to the Heritage Centre Garden Project. Her passion for creating beautiful, welcoming spaces also led to an invitation to upgrade the plants inside the Grey Street Mosque. Today, each week, more members of our community join Kaveri, contributing their time and creativity to this colourful and meaningful project.

This initiative is a wonderful example of how small acts of service can grow into lasting community impact. Through collective effort, we are not only helping to preserve an important piece of South African history, but also creating spaces that inspire pride, connection and belonging.

If you would like to learn more or become involved in the project, please contact Kaveri Padayachee at kaveripadayachee@gmail.com.

Our First YLTP Free Dental Camp

The International Association for Human Values (IAHV) recently hosted its first Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) Free Dental Camp, coordinated by Youth Leader Lwando Siboninge and Community Leader Kina Mbulelo Dumani.

The initiative was a partnership between IAHV, Projekt Ubuntu, Exchange do Bem, You2Africa, Masi Creative Hub, and Dent Care, a local dental practice serving the community.

The Dental Camp week included free dental and oral hygiene workshops, fun activities, free dental screenings, and free dental treatment for children. During the week, 170 children were screened by Dr Keziah Reddy, with 60 children receiving free dental treatment.

The aim of the Dental Camp is to improve oral hygiene among children and young adults. Good oral hygiene and dental care are an important part of overall health and well-being and help strengthen young immune systems.

This initiative forms part of our YLTP in Community approach, implementing the 5H Programme – Health, Hygiene, Homes, Human Values, and Harmony in Diversity.

Our Youth Leaders continue to serve their communities through a variety of projects, including soccer clubs and youth activities, food gardens and nutrition programmes, free medical and dental camps, clean-up campaigns, the implementation of Breath-Water-Sound workshops, and weekly Meditation Fridays.

The week concluded with a meditation session at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, bringing together our Brazilian volunteers and local youth. The meditation was facilitated by Youth Leader Yasmin Mzwai.

IAHV extends its sincere gratitude to all our partners, volunteers, healthcare professionals, and youth leaders for making our first YLTP Free Dental Camp a meaningful success.

Bringing Smiles to Senior Citizens at GrandWest

The IAHV Smile Senior Citizens (SSC) Project, led by Shirish and Ruweida Soni, brought together 150 senior citizens from six community groups for a special movie morning at CineCentre, GrandWest Casino on 6 June 2026.

The Smile Senior Citizens Project is one of IAHV’s flagship initiatives, dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through meaningful experiences, companionship, entertainment, and care.

Seniors from Seniors Connect, Club 60, Bemur Seniors, Red Roses, Leawood Seniors, and the Art of Living community enjoyed a screening of Michael, the inspiring story of pop icon Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to becoming one of the world’s greatest entertainers. Each guest also received complimentary popcorn and a soft drink to complete the cinema experience.

The gathering also marked two special milestones—the 70th birthday celebrations of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the 45th Anniversary of the Art of Living Foundation—making the occasion even more memorable for everyone present.

IAHV extends its heartfelt gratitude to AB Moosa, the shareholders, management, and staff of CineCentre for their generous support and hospitality. Most importantly, the day achieved its greatest purpose: bringing joy, connection, and plenty of smiles to our cherished senior citizens.

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.

Breath Water Sound Workshop at Juno Aurora Haven

A beautiful Breath Water Sound (BWS) Workshop was recently held at Juno Aurora Haven in Kelvin, Sandton, facilitated by Sumendrie and Shivani, VTP Graduates.

It was an amazing experience with these beautiful children, each carrying big hopes and dreams for their future. Over the many days of the workshop, it was heartwarming to witness their attention, engagement, and enthusiasm throughout the program.

To make the experience even more special, hygiene packs were distributed to the children old enough to participate in the workshop. Packs with crayons, colouring books, and other goodies were also prepared for the younger children so they could feel included too.

On the final day, the children enjoyed a mild vegetable biryani before receiving certificates to celebrate the successful completion of the program.

One of the greatest gifts has been reading the children’s experiences and reflections after the workshop. With follow-up sessions planned, there is great confidence that the positive impact of the program will continue to stay with them.

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.

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.”