This Youth Day, Voices of Courage 2026 brought together more than 800 young people across the Western Cape and Eastern Cape to celebrate courage, the power of young voices, and to honour the legacy of the youth of 16 June 1976, whose courage paved the way for future generations.
Our Voices of Courage Event is about creating spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and encouraged to believe in themselves. Through honest conversations, inspiring stories, performances, and interactive activities, the events reminded young people that courage isn’t always about doing something big, it can be as simple as speaking up, making a good choice, or taking the first step towards your goals.
This year, 400 young people attended the Western Cape event in Cape Town, while another 400 young people gathered in Burgersdorp for the Eastern Cape event. Although each event had its own unique programme, both shared the same goal: to inspire young people to lead with courage and make a positive difference in their communities.
Western Cape
The Western Cape event, held at Cape Town City Hall, was filled with meaningful conversations, inspiring stories, and moments of celebration. The event was in partnership with the City of Cape Town.
Young people heard from speakers who encouraged them to care for others, believe in themselves, and make positive choices. They watched the Action Kommandant screening, listened to a panel discussion featuring leaders from different sectors, and enjoyed an energetic performance by Jimmy Nevis, who had the audience on their feet singing and dancing together.
Read more about the Western Cape Voices of Courage event by clicking the button below:
Eastern Cape
In Burgersdorp, the day began with what became the highlight of the event, the Voices of Courage March, in partnership with the Department of Health and Scatec.
Hundreds of young people walked through the streets together, singing, dancing, carrying banners they had made themselves, and proudly celebrating Youth Day. The march created an incredible atmosphere and reminded everyone of the strength that comes from standing together.
The programme continued with performances, reflections on Youth Day, an intergenerational panel discussion, and the Courage Wall and Pledge Ceremony, where young people made personal commitments to lead with courage and make positive choices.
Read more about the Eastern Cape Voices of Courage event by clicking the button below:
Thank You
To every young person, educator, volunteer, partner, speaker, performer, and supporter who made our Voices of Courage Event 2026 possible, thank you.
Because of you, more than 800 young people had the opportunity to learn, connect, share their voices, and leave feeling encouraged.
We look forward to continuing this journey together and creating even more opportunities for young people to grow, lead, and make a difference.
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