Career day inspires youth

A Strandfontein man is visiting Mitchell’s Plain schools to inspire and encourage youth to stay in school and reach their goals with a good career.

Dale van Staden, a member of African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) Youth League Mitchell’s Plain, kick-started the career day campaign at Imperial Primary School, in Beacon Valley, on Thursday August 25.

He said the school dropout rate alarmed them and that they would like connect with youth in a safe space on a unique level to explore different career paths.

“We plan to have ex-pupils that have made a success of their lives to join us. We plan to have entrepreneurs, skilled professionals like doctors, firefighters, law enforcement officers and police, from our areas to motivate our youth to stay in school and aspire to be like them,” he said.

Mr Van Staden said often youth chose the easier paths of standing on corners and being influenced to use drugs, join gangs and contribute to increasing the crime statistics.

He thanked Plainsman reporter Fouzia van der Fort, Law Enforcement, SAPS and pastors, who spoke to the Grade 7 pupils.

“I’m grateful for them taking the time to come and invest in our youth.

“Those who have life experience have the key to the door that leads to the youths’ future,“ he said.

“We aim to inspire, direct and guide the youth,” said Mr Van Staden.

He said that they would like to be intentional in seeing the youth prosper and equipping them with information that would allow them to navigate around the pitfalls.

“Our youth can either build or destroy our future nation. We can aid them in building a nation,” he said.

Mr Van Staden is offering this service to all Mitchell’s Plain schools and he will line up the speakers.

For more information and to invite him email dvanstaden837@gmail.com.