Youth Project Celebrates 20 Years with Tour

The Up Up Up Youth Project, a dedicated non-profit organization, recently marked its 20th anniversary with an enriching educational tour of the renowned Kruger National Park (KNP). The event took place on October 24, bringing together sixty-eight young individuals from communities between Mngaduzweni and Hazyview, as well as the greater Nsikazi region.

Founded by Pr. Simon Mdluli, the Up Up Up Youth Project aims to provide local youth with valuable learning opportunities about the park and its diverse offerings. In collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission in Mpumalanga, the project organized this tour as part of its commitment to uplift young people in the area. “This initiative is part of our free programs designed to empower local youth, particularly those who are unemployed or unable to visit the KNP otherwise. We want them to learn about the park’s history, its diverse wildlife, and potential career paths in conservation and tourism,” Mdluli explained.

Initially targeting 80 participants, the project was pleased with the turnout of 68 youths who took advantage of this opportunity. Mdluli emphasized the project’s mission to develop young people by making crucial information more accessible. “Since our inception in 2004, we have aimed to help youth achieve their goals. We connect unemployed individuals with learnerships and skills development opportunities and refer those struggling with alcohol and substance abuse to appropriate health organizations. To date, more than 5,000 individuals have benefited from our initiatives,” he stated.

The Up Up Up Youth Project operates from three locations: eMhlambanyatsi/Mahushu and Mnganduzweni in the Ehlanzeni District, and Kinross in the Gert Sibande District. Through these centers, they provide various programs aimed at equipping young people with the tools they need for success.

Looking ahead, Mdluli shared some of the project’s future goals, including the establishment of a drug and substance rehabilitation center and a disciplinary camp. Additionally, they plan to organize more educational tours to other provinces, hold a marathon to promote healthy lifestyles among the youth, and conduct community awareness campaigns to combat crime and other social issues.

“The celebration of our 20th anniversary is not just a milestone but a testament to the resilience and potential of our youth. We remain committed to nurturing their talents and providing them with opportunities for growth,” Mdluli concluded.

The Up Up Up Youth Project continues to be a beacon of hope and empowerment in the region, fostering a brighter future for the young people it serves.