South Africa: Finding her voice to helping others find theirs

Unathi is a learner at Delft Technical High School in Cape Town. When she first became involved with Triangle Project's youth leadership activities, she described herself as feeling lost and uncertain. Conversations about sexuality, gender, women's rights and bodily autonomy were unfamiliar territory, and she had few opportunities to discuss these topics openly. Growing up in a community facing significant social and economic challenges, Unathi often questioned whether her voice mattered. Although she wanted to participate in community discussions and workshops, she struggled with confidence and found it difficult to express her thoughts in front of others. Like many young people, she doubted the value of her own perspective.

Everything began to change when she joined Triangle Project's youth leadership initiatives, Solidarity Spaces and community workshops. These programmes were designed to create safe and supportive environments where young people could learn, reflect, ask questions and share their experiences. More importantly, they encouraged participants to recognise their value and develop the confidence to engage actively in their communities. Over time, Unathi began to participate more openly in discussions. As her confidence grew, so did her willingness to take on greater responsibility. What started as quiet participation evolved into active leadership.

The most significant milestone in her journey came when she co-facilitated a Solidarity Space workshop at Goedgedacht. The session focused on voice, visibility and what it means to be heard. Participants explored why some people speak loudly because they feel unseen, while others remain silent despite having important experiences and perspectives to share.

For Unathi, facilitating the discussion represented far more than leading a workshop. It symbolised her own transformation.

The young person who once sat silently at the back of a room was now guiding conversations, encouraging participation and creating space for others to express themselves. She was no longer simply attending workshops; she was helping shape them.

Her growth has extended beyond personal confidence. Through her leadership, other learners have been encouraged to participate, speak out and recognise the value of their own voices. By modelling confidence and inclusion, she has created opportunities for others to do the same.

This transformation did not happen overnight. It developed through consistent participation, mentorship and practical leadership opportunities over several years. Triangle Project's facilitators intentionally created environments where young people could learn without fear of judgement and gradually build the skills needed to lead.

A crucial part of Unathi's development was being trusted with responsibility. Instead of remaining a participant, she was encouraged to contribute actively to programme activities and eventually assume facilitation roles. Through these experiences, she developed leadership, communication and facilitation skills while deepening her understanding of solidarity, listening and community care.

The evidence of her growth is clear. Before joining Triangle Project, Unathi rarely spoke during group discussions and viewed herself solely as a participant. Today, she confidently contributes to community activities, co-facilitates workshops and encourages others to engage. Her impact has not gone unnoticed.

Reflecting on Unathi's facilitation skills, WenzKhumalo observed:

"I respected how she took control and made sure that we understood what you were trying to convey during your facilitation session. I remember looking at her and thinking she is so young, yet she created a space where I participated fully. Thank you for reminding yourself that even if you are nervous about something, you can still move forward and do it."

A fellow learner, Asive, has witnessed the change firsthand:

"As a fellow learner who has been walking this road with Unathi, I am simply proud to have seen how she has grown in the past few years and taken the lead, not only in workshops but also at school with our fellow queer learners."

For Juliana Davids, who has supported Unathi's development throughout her journey, the transformation represents exactly what youth leadership programmes aim to achieve.

"When Unathi first started attending our activities, she did not yet fully recognise the value of her own voice or the contribution she could make to those around her. Over time, I watched her become more confident in expressing herself and taking up space. She did not simply grow as a participant; she stepped into leadership."

Today, Unathi serves as an important link between Triangle Project and her school community. She helps mobilise learners, supports workshop logistics, shares information about opportunities and encourages participation among her peers. In doing so, she is helping create a new generation of young leaders who understand the importance of inclusion, participation and community engagement.

The sustainability of this change lies in the fact that it has been built gradually over time. Through ongoing mentorship, leadership opportunities and practical experience, Unathi has developed skills that will continue to serve her throughout her education and beyond.

Triangle Project plans to continue supporting young leaders through Solidarity Spaces, youth leadership programmes and community engagement initiatives. The goal is to create a leadership pipeline where young people progress from participants to peer educators, facilitators and advocates for change.

Unathi's story demonstrates what becomes possible when young people are given opportunities to grow, contribute and lead. By investing in confidence, agency and leadership, communities gain not only empowered individuals but also future change makers who create space for others to thrive. Today, Unathi has found her voice. More importantly, she is helping others find theirs.