As South Africa commemorated Youth Day on 16 June, the Global CIO Forum South Africa joined the nation in honouring the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the youth of 1976.
Youth Day serves as a powerful reminder of the brave young people who stood up for education, equality, dignity, and a better future. Their actions not only changed the course of South Africa’s history but continue to inspire a continued commitment to invest in young people and equip them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to shape the future.
As part of the Youth Day outreach initiative, the Global CIO Forum South Africa visited Soweto to engage directly with learners and introduce them to the dynamic world of technology, digital careers, and cybersecurity awareness.
The initiative was led by Jenny Mohanlall, Head of Projects and Engagement, Global
CIO Forum South Africa, with the Forum represented by its President, Abdul Kader
Baba. The session also featured Malcolm Vather from RITS Consulting, who delivered an engaging and practical cybersecurity awareness session, equipping learners with essential knowledge to stay safe, responsible, and informed in today’s digital world.
Throughout the engagement, learners were introduced to a wide range of emerging career opportunities in technology, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, software development, digital innovation, and data analytics. More importantly, encouragement was given to believe in their potential to become the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, cybersecurity professionals, and technology leaders.
The enthusiasm, curiosity, and active participation of the learners reaffirmed the importance of initiatives like these. Every conversation, every shared lesson, and every inspired young mind represents an investment in South Africa’s digital future.
At the Global CIO Forum South Africa, the belief remains that the best way to honour the youth of yesterday is to empower the youth of today. Through mentorship, leadership development, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, a continued commitment is made to creating meaningful opportunities that inspire young people to embrace technology, build critical digital skills, and contribute to a safer, smarter, and more innovative South Africa.
A sincere appreciation is extended to Jenny Mohanlall, Malcolm Vather from RITS Consulting and team, partners, educators, and all contributors who made this Youth Day initiative a success.
Together, this initiative stands not only as a celebration of youth – but as a meaningful investment in their future and in building the technology leaders the country needs.
“The courage of the youth of 1976 gave South Africa hope. Our responsibility today is to equip the youth of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to lead our digital future.”
