Saturday the 25th of January 2014 saw the Umlazi branch host their annual Open day at the Umlazi AA library. The event started with a wonderful song from one of the learners at the branch. S’bonelo (Branch Coordinators) and N’thabiseng (Branch Assistant) proceeded to welcome the people and presented a PowerPoint based presentation. The presentation gave an overview of IkamvaYouth, the work IkamvaYouth does and the geographical reach of the organisation.
Staff and volunteers Open Day 2014
It also featured highlights of activities in the Umlazi branch from 2013. The presentation included the matric pass rate and the requirements for learners who join IkamvaYouth to keep their place in the programmes offered. The matric class of 2013 was celebrated with a visual tribute compiled by N’thabiseng.
IkamvaYouth Learner Zekhethelo Ngcobo reciting her touching poem
The video was followed by a performance from one of the learners who recited a poem about IkamvaYouth and the impact it has on learners. A testimonial from an ex-matric learner gave prospective learners a insight into the kind of impact being an Ikamvanite can have on one’s life. This was followed by a brief talk from a current volunteer tutor who spoke of his experience and what he feels is needed to be a successful Ikamvanite.
Ms Phumelele Kunene, from MUT gave a brief talk on the relationship IkamvaYouth Umlazi has with Mangosuthu University of Technology. She also motivated the learners in terms of their future choices in life.
We were blessed by the presence of ABI Soul Ambassadors (pictured below) who were accompanied by Samukelo Nkosi the Corporate Social Investment Coordinator-KZN for ABI.
Before everyone was served refreshments, courtesy of ABI, a surprise performance by Msizi (a local poet) brought the day to a close on a very high note.
The Soul Ambassadors (Wonder Mzobe,Patience Simela, and Nokwethemba Mpisi) with Thabisile Seme and S’bonelo Cele