South Africa: Bringing Change to Youth Leadership

“I am bringing change by creating awareness on mental health.”

These words from Naomi Buhendwa, a passionate youth leader from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, capture the essence of a journey that began with a simple desire to make a difference. Naomi’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of community-driven initiatives.

From Dance to Dialogue

Naomi’s involvement with the Tumaini Community Project opened doors to new opportunities. Through the youth group, she connected with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) in KwaZulu-Natal. What started as participation in a dance and mentorship programme soon evolved into a deeper commitment to mental health advocacy.

The programme was more than just an activity; it was a lifeline. Dance classes became a safe space for young people to express themselves, while mentorship sessions offered guidance and support. Naomi played a key role in organizing these activities, ensuring that even the youngest participants—those under 16—felt included and empowered.

Leadership Through Learning

For Naomi, the experience was transformative. “The programme helped me cope with stress and anxiety and improved my leadership skills,” she reflects. Through SADAG’s support, Naomi honed her organizational abilities and discovered the strength to lead. These skills were not just personal milestones—they became tools to uplift others.

Mental health challenges are often invisible, yet they affect countless lives. Naomi recognized this and made it her mission to break the silence. By creating awareness, she helped young people in her community understand and manage their mental well-being. Her efforts have sparked conversations that were long overdue, challenging stigma and fostering empathy.

Overcoming Barriers

The journey was not without obstacles. Distance and transportation posed significant challenges, limiting access to programmes. Mentorship, too, had its hurdles—some mentors lacked the skills needed to guide effectively. Yet, these challenges only strengthened Naomi’s resolve. Each setback became a lesson, shaping her vision for the future.

A Vision for Tomorrow

Naomi’s plans are ambitious and inspiring. She envisions expanding youth engagement and intensifying awareness campaigns on mental health and suicide prevention. Her goal is clear: to create a community where young people feel supported, understood, and empowered to lead.

“I am bringing change,” Naomi says with conviction. And indeed, she is. Through her leadership, the Tumaini Community Project has become a beacon of hope—a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.

Why This Matters

Mental health remains one of the most pressing issues for young people today. Naomi’s story highlights the importance of grassroots initiatives in addressing these challenges. By integrating creative outlets like dance with mentorship and advocacy, programmes like Tumaini are redefining what youth leadership looks like.

Naomi’s journey is not just her own—it is a call to action. It reminds us that change begins with awareness and that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement for well-being and equality.

By: Naomi Buhendwa.