Celebrating Success: The Impact of Primestars EduCate Programme
January 26, 2024
Mandela Day: Driving and Inspiring Change In Our Communities
July 18, 2024
As the Chief Operating Officer of Primestars, an organisation dedicated to youth development, I'm deeply passionate about ensuring every child has the opportunity to flourish. This International Day of the Boy Child (16th May), I want to highlight a critical but often overlooked issue – the need to empower boys for a more just and equitable society.
Why Our Boys Matter
We frequently see awareness programmes focused on the "girl child," and rightly so. However, this focus can inadvertently create disparities. Boys, lacking access to similar resources, become more vulnerable. They face challenges on the streets, often without a support system, leading them down paths of crime, drug abuse, and homelessness.
The Impact of Neglect
Limited access to education, healthcare, protection from violence, and proper socialisation can have a devastating impact. These boys' dreams and potential remain unfulfilled.
International Day of the Boy Child: Raising Awareness
The 16th of May serves as a crucial reminder to acknowledge this global neglect. It's a day for global recognition of the importance of investing in these young men – the future fathers, leaders, and changemakers of our society.
Building a Nation of Good Men: A Collaborative Effort
True inclusion means every child matters, regardless of gender. Every boy deserves protection, nurturing, and the chance to reach their full potential. This is not a solitary mission. Collaboration with private, public and civil organisations such as SASOL,Seriti, CHIETA. McDonalds, Markham, The Ford Foundation, EOH, ABSA, LoveLife, Amatyma, Father A Nation, The Young Men Movement amongst many others, is crucial in this movement for change and the powerful notion that unity is the biggest motivator for change.
The "What About The Boys" Programme: Making a Difference
Primestars' "What About The Boys" programme is a South African initiative tackling this issue head-on. The programme has been recognised by President Cyril Ramaphosa and the African Union, a testament to its positive impact. With over 50 000 boys reached since inception in 2022 via the cinema, in-school ( rural) and digital implementations, we're committed to scaling our programme to a national target of 100,000.
The Four Pillars of Success:
Our programme focuses on four key areas to empower boys:
- Reimagining Masculinity: We challenge boys to redefine traditional masculinity and explore healthier gender norms.
- Building Resilience: We equip them with emotional and cognitive skills for self-regulation and healing from trauma.
- Fostering Hope: We create hope through education and tools to succeed in life.
- Providing Safe Spaces: We offer safe spaces where boys feel supported and empowered.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for All
There's much work to be done, but we are hopeful and excited to continue making a positive impact on boys' lives. Let's ensure all children, boys and girls alike, have the opportunity to chase their dreams and build a brighter future for all.
For more information and to get involved, please visit our website or email us at info@primestars.co.za
