Etafeni Centre empowers boys with life skills and confidence
Pastor Sani Booi has prayed for young people to be good future leaders.
Image: Phiri Cawe
The Rise Up 20 Boys start their tasks with a prayer.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Known as TP to his boys, Tumelo Pudumo is a 'father' of the 20 boys.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Nyanga boys from different schools were given skills to become better men through an initiative by Etafeni Day Care Centre.
Image: Phiri Cawe
In an effort to build self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and confidence among young boys, the Etafeni Day Care Centre has launched a three-month life skills programme in Nyanga
This initiative, which supported 20 boys, aims to promote self-esteem, positive masculinity, and gender equality, empowering them to grow into responsible and compassionate men.
At a celebration marking the completion of the programme held on Wednesday, November 5, the centre shared its vision of helping the boys make meaningful changes in their own lives and within their communities.
The organisation, in a statement, said that while many development programmes focus primarily on girls, boys often receive less attention and guidance, leaving them vulnerable to negative influences, particularly during their high school years. This programme seeks to change that narrative.
Ndileka Sibali, coordinator of the after-school programme at Etafeni, said the boys participated in daily after-school sessions from Monday to Friday. “Every Wednesday, they attended the Rise Up 20 Boys session, where they learned essential life skills, discipline, and emotional management,” Ms Sibali said. “We discussed important topics such as abuse, crime prevention, and self-respect. It’s been a pleasure to see their growth, and we’re proud to award them certificates of recognition.”
The group, who call itself the Rise Up 20 Boys, was mentored by Tumelo Pudumo and Pastor Sani Booi, who facilitated the programme. Mr Pudumo said he was immensely proud of the boys’ progress and urged parents to support their children rather than criticise them for their mistakes.
“There’s incredible talent in Nyanga,” he said. “If we nurture that potential, we can keep children away from crime and off the streets. Parents, let’s give our children love and encouragement. Even a few minutes watching your child play sports can inspire them to be better. These boys are bright and capable—they just need continued support.”
Pastor Booi said parental involvement and education were important to a child's growth.
He said that when children lack guidance and emotional support at home, they are more susceptible to joining gangs or engaging in destructive behaviour. “Gangsterism is a real challenge in our communities,” he said. “That’s why we teach the boys about the dangers of crime, substance abuse, and violence. But education must begin at home. Parents should set positive examples—avoid sending children to buy alcohol or cigarettes, and instead, teach them respect and responsibility.”
The boys also spoke about what they learned.
Buhle Mbalo said the programme opened his eyes to issues like child neglect and trafficking. “I now understand how serious these problems are, and I want to share what I’ve learned with others,” he said.
Another participant, Alakhe Mlatsha, highlighted the importance of understanding bullying and abuse. “What we learned should also be taught to parents,” he added. “Sometimes they don’t realise how their behaviour affects us. They also need education about abuse.”