As we honoured the courage and voice of young people on the 16th of June, the story of 12-year-old Devado from Lavender Hill offers a glimpse into what it means to grow up with strength and self-awareness in today’s world.
He navigates the risks of gangsterism, substance abuse, and theft; challenges he describes plainly. But rather than focusing on these, Devado has found a way to steady himself through yoga and mindfulness. These practices, introduced to him at school through Earthchild Project programmes, have become tools to manage stress and build confidence.
Earthchild Project supports children in eight schools in the Western Cape with life skills, yoga, and environmental education, offering safe, consistent spaces where they can express themselves and grow. For Devado, the yoga programme has helped him connect with his emotions and find meaning in guiding others.
“The true self I found in yoga was a role model to others — an inspiration to children younger than me, and even grown-ups.”
In this clip, Devado’s words remind us that even small acts, breathing deeply, speaking kindly, can shape a young life in lasting ways. His story reflects a quieter kind of leadership: one that grows from within and reaches out to others.
On a day that commemorates the power of youth to shape the future, stories like Devado’s show us that transformation can start with a moment of stillness, a steady breath, and the choice to keep growing.
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