Seventh-day Adventist Church launches youth development programme in Marathon informal settlement

The Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to prioritize the development of children and young people through its Youth Ministry Department. The church’s initiatives focus on equipping youth with essential life skills, values, and leadership training from an early age. These programs aim to foster personal growth and community engagement by providing structured learning and specialized activities.

Participants in the church’s youth programs are guided by trained leaders and instructors who undergo continuous training and courses to better understand the needs of those they serve. These leaders are also required to complete child protection training and obtain police clearance to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all participants. This commitment to safeguarding reflects the church’s dedication to creating a secure environment for youth development.

The Youth Ministry Department caters to various age groups through distinct clubs: the Adventurer Club for children aged 4–9, the Pathfinder Club for those aged 10–15, the Ambassador Club for young adults aged 16–21, and the Young Adults group for individuals aged 22–30. Each club offers a range of activities designed to nurture spiritual growth, healthy relationships, and personal talents.

Recognizing the need for structured activities for children who often spend weekends without supervision, the Marathon Seventh-day Adventist Church introduced these life-changing programs to the Marathon informal settlement. The initiative was supported by junior youth president Slindile Tshabalala from Marimba Seventh-day Adventist Church, who emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for children to learn and grow.

Enrolment for the program took place on February 21, with Tshabalala engaging with parents and community members to highlight the benefits of the clubs. Over 60 children were enrolled with the consent of their parents and guardians, many of whom expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to support their children’s development through these programs.

Membership in the youth programs is open to anyone between the ages of four and 30. Those interested in joining can contact Buhle Nyoni on 064 465 3820 or Zandile on 084 665 0607 for more information. The Seventh-day Adventist Church remains committed to empowering youth through its comprehensive and inclusive development initiatives.

Source: Read the original report