Event aims to empower youth with special needs in Kimberley

A MAJOR event aimed at empowering and supporting young people with special needs will take place in Kimberley next week.

The Auto Engage Youth Empowerment Programme (AEYEP), powered by merSETA, will host the gathering on October 15 at the Northern Cape Urban TVET College’s Phatsimang Campus. Proceedings will run from 8am to 2pm.

Organisers expect more than 1,000 participants, including learners and youth, educators, employers, industry stakeholders, government departments, public entities, and organisations representing the disability sector.

The event will feature inspiring speakers such as Jace Nair from Blind SA, who will address the rights of blind and partially sighted people; Brendon Msati from the Northern Cape Disabled Children Action Group, who will share stories from the local community; and Masabatha Leeuw from the Northern Cape Urban TVET College, who will discuss how the institution is improving inclusion and support for students with special needs.

Adding to the excitement, well-known 5FM presenter Boipelo Mooketsi will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, bringing her trademark energy and broadcasting flair to the programme.

Event organiser Lungelo Nene said the initiative aims to highlight opportunities for young people living with disabilities and strengthen collaboration between the education, business, and community sectors.

“This event is about giving young people with special needs the chance to be heard, supported, and given real opportunities,” Nene said.

The event will take place at 777 Nobengula Road, Kimberley (GPS: -28.71559, 24.71581).

For more information, contact Lungelo Nene at 068 286 8717 or lungelonene.barolong@outlook.com.