WELKOM – Learners at the Riebeeckstad High School were encouraged to make informed decisions, resist peer pressure, and embrace positive alternatives to substance use during the second annual I Can mass prevention and awareness campaign hosted by the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) Goldfields on 16 October.

The event, held for the second consecutive year, combined music, dance, practical demonstrations and personal testimonies to address the challenges facing young people in Matjhabeng.

Unlike the inaugural campaign, this year’s programme placed greater emphasis on lived experiences and practical choices, giving learners an opportunity to engage with substance abuse prevention and crime awareness in a meaningful way.

Early intervention

The campaign was led by Romeo Robertson, main facilitator of SANCA Goldfields’ I Can early intervention programme, alongside co-organiser Linda Odendaal of the Riebeeckstad High School and Pastor Joshua Monyane-Hayworth, a SANCA board member and motivational speaker.

Robertson, who runs the five-month early intervention programme at schools, said the initiative aimed to reach young people early and equip them to make responsible decisions.

“We say ‘I Can’ because we want each learner to believe they can make a choice, even when pressure is high,” he said.

The programme included a drug-search demonstration by the Welkom SAPS K9 unit and a crime prevention presentation by Sgt Malindi of the Welkom SAPS District Youth Crime Prevention Desk.

Learners also heard an emotional account from Dillon September, a motivational speaker and recovering addict, who shared his personal journey and highlighted the realities of addiction.

Recovering addict

Representatives from government departments attended to reinforce the importance of collaboration in youth prevention initiatives.

They included Lebohang Twala of the Lejweleputswa District Department of Education, Molun Matsididi of the Department of Social Development’s Crime Prevention unit, and Mosala Moeng of the Department of Health.

The campaign also showcased positive alternatives for young people through performances by Vibes Dance Studio, under the guidance of Jolandie Breitenbach Greef, and the Kaboenthle Dance Class.

Their performances demonstrated how dance and creative expression can provide constructive outlets for young people.

The New Bronville NPO also participated, strengthening links between prevention programmes and community-based support services.

Delivering the keynote message, Monyane-Hayworth encouraged learners to take responsibility for their futures and reminded them that their circumstances did not have to determine their choices.

Take responsibility

“This generation is not lost. When we give them truth, skills and a safe space to talk, they choose life. Today is proof that prevention works when the whole community stands together,” he said.

Organisers thanked the participating stakeholders, educators and the Riebeeckstad High School principal and staff for their support in hosting the campaign.

SANCA Goldfields encouraged parents and young people who need assistance or support, to contact the organisation on 057 352 5444 or via WhatsApp on 064 861 0085.

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