“Kids of my age, every day we’ll face gangsterism, people being addicted to drugs, teenage pregnancy.”
These are not the words of a politician, a teacher, or an adult reflecting on the challenges facing South Africa’s youth.
They are the words of Aqeel, a 15-year-old young leader from Hillwood Primary School who has spent the past seven years growing with Earthchild Project.
At an age where many teenagers are still discovering who they are, Aqeel already understands the realities that surround him. He sees the struggles that many young people face every single day. But he also knows something just as important: your circumstances do not have to determine your future.
“There are a lot of opportunities for you to use to conquer your surroundings or to conquer your circumstances.”
Aqeel’s journey with Earthchild Project began as a child in our yoga programme. Through years of weekly mindfulness practices, movement, connection, and guidance, he began developing something far greater than physical strength — confidence, compassion, and a sense of purpose.
Today, Aqeel is one of Earthchild Project’s young leaders. He now stands at the front of the room, teaching yoga to children younger than himself and stepping into the role of mentor and role model.
But for Aqeel, leadership is about more than standing in front of others.
“It’s not about just teaching yoga, it’s about teaching hope. Teaching mindfulness. Teaching strength.”
Perhaps the most powerful part of Aqeel’s story is that he never expected this path for himself.
“I never thought that I would become a leader one day. And I’ve learned how to become one because of the ECP programs we did.”
This Youth Day, we celebrate young people like Aqeel: young people who are choosing to lead with kindness, courage, and purpose.
Young people who are not defined by the challenges around them, but by the choices they make in response to them.
And in Aqeel’s own words, a new generation of leaders who are committed to:
“Serving with purpose, serving with dignity, and serving with pride.”
Help us nurture the next generation of young leaders.
By supporting Earthchild Project, you are giving children the opportunity to grow through mindfulness, environmental education, and leadership programmes that empower them to become changemakers in their communities.[Donate here]
