Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Eswatini National Youth Council (ENYC), in collaboration with strategic partners, hosted the Sandleni Youth Empowerment Day on 19 July 2025 at Sandleni Inkhundla. The event brought together young people from across the Shiselweni region for a day focused on unlocking youth potential through skills development, entrepreneurship, and awareness initiatives.
Held under the theme “Building Our Future, Unleashing Youth Potential,” the gathering offered a platform for youth to access information and opportunities in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), financial literacy, and small business development. Sessions also addressed social issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) and HIV awareness.
Among the many inspiring moments, the return of Nontsikelelo and Feziwe, two young women who first received sewing machines through ENYC’s TVET programme, stood out. No longer just participants, they returned as successful creators, proudly exhibiting the garments they now produce. Their journey from recipients to role models reflects the ripple effect that well-targeted support can have in transforming lives.
“I had the skill but no tool. Now I can earn from my craft,” said Nontsikelelo, showing off a beautifully stitched shweshwe dress. Feziwe, equally proud, noted how her confidence has grown alongside her technical abilities. Their progress highlights the value of investing in both skills training and material support.
The Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO) was among the key partners present, offering young attendees information on business incubation, legal advisory, and enterprise support services. Through their engagement, SEDCO underscored the importance of equipping youth not only with training but also with structured support to help them launch and grow sustainable businesses.
The Honourable Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs was present to support the initiative. His attendance signaled strong government backing for youth development efforts in rural areas.
The Sandleni Youth Empowerment Day reinforced the value of multi-sector partnerships in addressing youth unemployment and social challenges. As young people like Nontsikelelo and Feziwe continue to rise, the event served as both a celebration of progress and a call to deepen investment in youth-led development.
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