Change is on the horizon for young people in Boksburg. After months of hard work, Youth Breaking Barriers is thrilled to announce its exciting new chapter in its mission to address youth mental health and empower the next generation.
Following the impactful Suicide Prevention and Youth Empowerment Day on 28 September 2024, the organization has officially partnered with the Department of Health and Wellness to bring critical mental health education directly to schools.
The event may not have seen the largest turnout, but its ripple effect is proving powerful.
A virtual meeting with MEC Nomantu Nkomo and other key department heads has resulted in a transformative new partnership which sought to change the conversation around mental health for South Africa’s youth.
"We had an incredible meeting with the MEC," shared Terry-Ann Diergaardt, founder and driving force behind Youth Breaking Barriers.
"It’s amazing to see how something we started to help our community’s children is now growing into a larger movement. This is the beginning of real change."
As part of this exciting development, Youth Breaking Barriers has teamed up with Dignified Psychological Services, led by Clinical Psychologist Tryphosa Siweya.
With Counselor Ramodisa Thapelo stepping in as the project manager, the organization is ready to take its School-Based Support Service on the road.
Starting in October, Youth Breaking Barriers will visit three schools to launch their new Exam Anxiety Talkprogram, just in time for matric exams.
"We’re bringing mental health education straight to the students," Diergaardt explained.
"From managing exam stress to understanding the signs of depression, we’re equipping these young people with the tools they need to navigate challenges they face every day."
The initiative will kick off at Reiger Park Secondary, Diergaardt’s former high school, with a full program designed to support learners in dealing with anxiety and emotional pressures during their exams.
"Partnering with the Department of Health and Wellness has opened doors we never thought possible," she added. "With their support, we can now reach even more schools, and I truly believe we are on the path to making a lasting impact."
This announcement come at a better time, as October marks National Depression & Mental Health Screening Month, Youth Breaking Barriers is more determined than ever to be at the forefront of the fight against youth mental health struggles.
With the department’s backing and the growing support from sponsors, the organization is hopeful that this program will reach beyond just a few schools, making waves across the region.
"We’ve come so far, but there’s still much more to do," Diergaardt emphasized. "We’re building something incredible here, and we’re not stopping until we bring real change to the lives of our youth."
Saturday Star
Sipho.jack@inl.co.za