In 2024, the Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility, a majority-owned subsidiary of ENGIE, spearheaded a transformative initiative impacting schools across Somerset East, Cookhouse, Adelaide, and Bedford to address social challenges head-on. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The programme, originally launched in 2022 with guidance from qualified social workers, has evolved to empower local youth to lead the charge. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, trained young social influencers from the community facilitate monthly sessions at 12 primary schools, providing learners in Grades 6, 7, and 8 with tools to overcome critical social issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zandile Deliwe, Social Performance Manager at Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility said, \u201cWe\u2019re creating a support network that empowers both facilitators and learners.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBy involving young social influencers from the community, this programme addresses immediate challenges while laying a foundation for long-term educational and personal growth.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The programme has proven invaluable in equipping learners with skills to address critical issues such as bullying, substance abuse, and teenage pregnancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By offering practical and emotional support, the programme actively reduces dropout rates and promotes positive behaviour among young learners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each month, the social influencers lead discussions on topics tailored to the learners\u2019 needs, covering subjects like sexual reproductive health, menstruation, gender-based violence, and self-esteem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The programme also offers practical support, distributing sanitary towels to approximately 450 girls at each visit, bridging both health and education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For learners facing heightened risks, the programme connects them directly with social workers to provide more intensive assistance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In collaboration with LoveLife, Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility has ensured that these sessions foster discipline, resilience, and a commitment to long-term academic success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since its inception, the programme has been a significant force in tackling social challenges identified by local schools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve seen firsthand how this initiative has contributed to a healthier, more resilient learner body,\u201d added Deliwe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBy confronting issues like substance abuse, bullying, and teenage pregnancy, we\u2019re building a foundation of support for future generations.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This youth-led programme will continue to be funded by the Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility through 2025, extending ENGIE\u2019s commitment to sustainable community development in the region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Working in tandem with LoveLife, the initiative provides a structured framework that empowers learners and strengthens community resilience across the four towns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Programme at a glance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Participating schools: 12 primary schools, including Adelaide Premier Skool, Lingelethu Full Service Primary School, and Richard Msuthu Primary School.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Reach: Approximately 1 000 learners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2022 Key topics: Sexual reproductive health, menstruation, gender-based violence, substance abuse, bullying, and self-love.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In 2024, the Golden Valley Wind Energy Facility, a majority-owned subsidiary of ENGIE, spearheaded a transformative initiative impacting schools across Somerset East, Cookhouse, Adelaide, and Bedford to address social challenges 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