Fetching Youth from the Sidelines to Center Stage

Imagine being a teenager in Tsantsabane, a community filled with socio economic challenges full of ideas and energy but rarely asked what you think or need. Recognising this as a real challenge, the FETCH programme began its journey last year with a clear focus on putting young people first. Backed by The Lesedi Solar Park Trust, the team reached out to JVDH Coaching, a local organisation led with a passion for making a difference. Together, they became partners, not just in name, but in action. The FETCH team did not just set things in motion and walk away; they have been right there alongside JVDH Coaching, offering support, encouragement, and practical help every step of the way. 

This partnership sparked something special: the Tsantsabane Youth Collective. Now, having sessions every month, young people gather not just to listen, but to share their stories and tackle real challenges. At one of their first sessions, the group talked openly about what holds them and their friends back. One big problem stood out: many young people simply do not know what opportunities or support are available to them. Instead of stopping there, the group rolled up their sleeves and set out to change that. 

The Youth Collective decided to map out every service and resource in Tsantsabane an ambitious project, but one they tackled together with determination. Piece by piece, they built an online platform that puts information and opportunities right at young people’s fingertips. Last week their ninth session was held as they put the finishing touches on the platform and started getting ready for their next big event: the Youth Expo. 

The Youth Expo will be joining forces with the Lesedi Solar Park Trust’s community engagements for a bigger impact. For many in Tsantsabane, this will be the first time meeting the Youth Collective and seeing the new platform in action. This is more than just an event it is a celebration of what can happen when young people are given the tools and trust to shape their own futures. 

The Tsantsabane Youth Collective shows what is possible when youth are trusted, trained, and given room to lead. Their successes do not just help individuals they send ripples through the whole community, inspiring others and building hope for the future.