Youth

iMeditate Africa Weekly – Meditate Fridays in Masiphumelele

As part of the iMeditate Africa Campaign, Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) graduates are facilitating free weekly Meditate Friday sessions at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation in Masiphumelele, Cape Town.

Meditate Fridays were created to provide young people with a safe space to pause, reflect, and learn practical tools for managing stress and emotions. With mental health becoming an increasing concern in many communities, these sessions aim to equip youth with simple yet effective techniques to help them self-regulate, build resilience, and cope with stress and trauma.

The initiative is a partnership between IAHV South Africa and the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation and forms part of the broader iMeditate Africa Campaign, which was launched during Africa Month in May.

Through guided meditation and mindfulness practices, participants are introduced to tools that support mental wellbeing while fostering a greater sense of calm, focus, and inner strength.

We are proud of our YLTP graduates who continue to give back to their communities by sharing these valuable life skills and helping to create positive change.

Together, through initiatives such as iMeditate Africa, we are contributing towards the vision of building a more peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Africa.

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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 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.

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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 (BWS) Workshop at Bright Haven NPO, Barrydale

From 19–23 January 2026, twenty young participants from Bright Haven NPO in Barrydale took part in a Breath Water Sound (BWS) workshop as part of their daily learning and wellbeing programme.

The sessions created a safe and supportive space for the youth to connect with themselves through breathwork, sound, and experiential learning. Participants shared that the practices helped them feel calmer, more balanced, and more at ease in their bodies. Many reported improved focus and a greater ability to regulate their emotions following the sessions.

An important component of the workshop was learning about the five elements — earth, water, fire, air, and space — and understanding how these elements relate to their bodies, emotions, and the natural world. This exploration fostered deeper self-awareness, grounding, and a renewed respect for nature and inner balance.

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

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Support for Du Noon Fire Victims (Western Cape)

Earlier this month, a devastating fire swept through Du Noon in the Western Cape, leaving many families displaced and in urgent need of support. In response, graduates of the Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP) stepped forward to assist the affected community.

Several YLTP graduates have been actively volunteering at Silverleaf Primary School, where they recently supported learners during a Breath Water Sound (BWS) workshop. Through their close engagement with the school, it became clear that replacing lost school uniforms was an immediate priority for many of the children.

Thanks to the generosity of a sponsor, and the dedicated efforts of volunteers Diego and Cindy, new school uniforms were purchased and distributed to the learners. This simple yet meaningful support has helped restore dignity, stability, and a sense of normalcy for the children as they continue their education.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this initiative possible. Together, we continue to stand in service of communities in need.

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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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Children’s party at The Nelson Mandela Community Youth Centre (NMCYC)

On the 20th December, The Nelson Mandela Community Youth Centre (NMCYC) was lit up by the presence of 350 children who were treated to a day of fun, laughter, gifts, a hearty meal, music and dance.

This was a collaboration between The International Association for Human Values (IAHV), the Revolution Motorcycle Club and The Nelson Mandela Community Youth Centre who made it possible to have Children from various parts of Durban and different organisations brought to the centre to celebrate the end of 2025.

The children were treated to a snack on arrival, a live band, a clown that got their tummy aching with laughter, quizzes with prizes, stationery, a sumptuous lunch, ice cream and each child left with a goodie bag.

A representative from iCare said:

“We had a good time. Thanks for the invitation, Artists performance, food/ drinks, Christmas gifts for the boys- above all, gathering the children in one place to feel that belonging, opening the  platform for children show their strengths on talents, educational development and more. Once again, thanks a lot for inviting us.”

A huge thank you to over 50 Volunteers that made this event possible.

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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).

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

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