#TrailblazerImpact – Class of 2020
Siyasebenza Donation Project: Parys Chapter Trailblazers
Trailblazer(s): Parys Chapter
School: Phehellang High School, Weiveld High School, Yakhisizwe Secondary school and Bernard Molokwane High School
Province: Free State
CAP Issue: Community Development
Trailblazers from the Parys Chapter decided to form a group project and address a community issue that they all agreed on and maximise resources since the project was started during Covid-19. The group consists of Trailblazers from 4 different high schools (Phehellang High school, Weiveld Agriculture and Hotel School, Yakhisizwe Secondary School and Bernard Molokwane High School) located in Parys and around the Tumahole Township. Members of this dynamic group pointed out that what was most exciting about the Program was the different workshops and how these workshops have sparked creativity amongst the group members. Above everything, the activities allowed them to unite and tackle issues in their community together. Through their CAP implementation, the group has learned how to communicate better, deal with group dynamics, and do project management. They have become more aware of issues that the youth in their community face and are working together to develop solutions for these challenges.
The core principles that formed the foundation of this group of young people is Ubuntu, trust and honesty. One key element highlighted by the group members was that the perspective of the whole group changed as they attended the weekly workshops. Members started to commit to change and stayed disciplined so that the group could achieve its goal. At first, the Trailblazers had different ideas on tackling issues in their community at the beginning of the Program. But, towards the end, they realised they all had the same goal: to help people in need, and that’s how the group CAP was formed. What attracted this group of young people to the Trailblazer Program was their desire to learn and contribute to changing their lives and the lives of others in their communities.
The Trailblazers started the “Siyasebenza” donation drive project, where they collect clothes and food and donate to people in need. The CAP was motivated by the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic had on many families in the area, worsening the unemployment and food securities in many communities. The group has donated clothes and food to 22 families around the Tumahole township, Sisulu Informal settlement, and school uniform at Aha Sechaba Primary School and Phehellang High School. The group is continuing to collect more clothes and food as they identify more families that need help. This has been inspired by their ability to offer a helping hand in their community.
