Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Revolutionary singer Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda and acclaimed creative Sandra Ndebele have urged young people to be innovative and work diligently to effect positive societal change.
Their call to action comes ahead of the National Youth Day, celebrated today in Bulawayo.
As influential role models, the duo encouraged the youth to lead the charge for change and development, drawing inspiration from those who have paved the way after enduring years of hardship.
Chief Hwenje, known for penning songs praising the Second Republic’s developmental agenda, said he will follow the programmes to be held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre on television today.
“The National Youth Day is very critical for the young people who are the future leaders.
“My message to them is that they must remain firm and resolute and be change-makers.
“I am challenging them to work hard because they still have the energy to do so,” he said.
The “Mai Welly” singer noted that young people’s potential should not be underestimated.
“If you love your country like some of us do, you will realise that we have the potential to do better and change the narrative.
“In my case, I always make sure that I work hard and utilise every opportunity that I get to change lives.
“It’s not easy to be change-makers, but we need to work hard and follow in the footsteps of our elders,” she said.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Ndebele, whose ascent to the top came from hard work, resilience, and focus.
“My message is very clear to the young people, and I want them to be real and hard working.
“We can only rise and be well-known through hard work.
“In my case, people have seen me rise, and I always want to change the narrative by inspiring others that we can always make an impression in other people’s lives,” she said.
Sandy, as the diva is popularly known in showbiz circles, said it was a blessing that Bulawayo is hosting this year’s edition.
“What more can we ask for if we are hosting this year’s National Youth Day?
“Of course, I will be a spectator and not a performer, but I will attend this year’s event.
“I will be there with my clique supporting the developmental agenda that will be preached. I stand for the young people out there, and I want to be a champion of change,” she stressed.
The multi-tasking influencer, who has tried her hand in agriculture, the food industry, and fashion designing, urged young people to take risks.
“In life, we all need to take risks because we don’t know what the future holds. In my case, I have tried everything and conquered.
“We should not be afraid to take on new responsibilities if we want to bring about change,” she said.
The former IYASA member believes that young people have everything it takes to bring about change.
“As a nation, we all know what the young people have to offer in every sector. It is my wish to see more young people occupying powerful positions.
“This will enable young people to feel valued as they champion change,” she said.
She also urged young people to speak out against all forms of abuse if they are to conquer and change lives.
National Youth Day was formally recognised in 2017 in memory of the late Zimbabwe’s founding President Robert Mugabe.
Formerly the 21st February Movement, the day was established to honour the late revolutionary.
The youth arm of the ruling party lobbied for this day to be honoured, and now it is referred to as National Youth Day.
The main focus of this day is youth empowerment, as well as advocating for the eradication of drug and substance abuse. Ending child rape, unemployment, ritual killings, and child labour are some of the major issues that need to be addressed.
