As South Africa’s young people navigate increasing pressures around identity, purpose, education, unemployment and harmful social influences, a Rustenburg church is seeking to provide a different path — one rooted in faith, mentorship, discipleship and practical development.
At New Covenant Fellowship International Church, youth ministry has become more than a programme. It has become a practical response to the challenges facing a generation searching for hope, direction and belonging.
That response is perhaps most visible through UCON (Unashamed Youth Conference), a free annual youth conference that has grown into one of NCFI Church’s most significant outreach initiatives. While based in Rustenburg, the conference speaks to a much wider national conversation about how the Church can meaningfully engage, disciple and develop young people.
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Over the years, UCON has become one of the largest Christian youth gatherings in the Rustenburg area, bringing together hundreds of young people for worship, mentorship, skills development, fellowship and spiritual growth. The conference has grown beyond a local church event into a regional platform that seeks to inspire a generation to pursue Christ, purpose and positive community impact.
Last year, more than 800 young people attended the conference. This year, organisers are trusting God for 1 000 young people to gather under the theme, “For the Kingdom”, inspired by Jesus’ prayer in Matthew 6:10: Let Your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven.
The conference will take place over two days at the end of the school term, providing what organisers describe as a faith-filled alternative to the often notorious “Pens Down” culture that has claimed and affected many young lives over the years.
“We wanted to create a space where young people can encounter God, discover purpose, build healthy relationships and be equipped for life,” said Refentse Mokgope, one of the conference organisers and a trained counsellor who works closely with young people.
For church leaders, youth ministry is not only about keeping young people occupied. It is about preparing them to become spiritually mature, purpose-driven leaders who can positively influence their communities.
Senior pastor Rev Ezra Mokgope believes that the Church should function as a learning space where people are equipped for every area of life.
“When I read my Bible, I come across many moments where Jesus is called Rabbi, which means Teacher. He is also called the Saviour. This tells me that Christ functioned as a teacher,” said Mokgope.
Mokgope who is a passionate teacher himself, believes Jesus spent much of His earthly ministry teaching, mentoring and preparing people for purpose, providing a model for how the Church should engage young people today.
That philosophy has shaped much of the ministry’s approach. Through mentorship, discipleship programmes, career guidance, leadership, skills development and counselling support, young people are encouraged to grow spiritually while also being equipped to navigate education, relationships, career choices and life challenges.
Refentse leads a team of counsellors who assist young people facing various personal, emotional and academic challenges. The goal, she says, is to provide a safe environment where young people can receive guidance and support while strengthening their relationship with God.
This year’s UCON conference will include worship, fellowship, biblical teaching, mentorship opportunities, skills development sessions and practical engagement around education and future career pathways.
Organisers have deliberately chosen speakers who can connect authentically with young people rather than relying on celebrity. Featured speakers include Pastor Gift Maseko and Pastor Israel Phiri, both known for their ability to communicate biblical truth in a way that resonates with younger audiences.
The conference is also a collaborative effort involving several local churches united by a common desire to see young people transformed by the Gospel and equipped to serve their communities.
Youth leaders involved in the initiative say the vision extends beyond conference attendance figures. Their prayer is to see lasting transformation in the lives of young people — young people who encounter Christ, discover their God-given purpose and become leaders in their schools, churches, workplaces and communities.
Itumeleng Minekwani, a youth leader involved in the initiative, believes UCON demonstrates the vital role the local church can play in shaping the next generation.
“In a time when many churches are asking how best to engage the next generation, UCON offers one example of how local congregations can combine discipleship, mentorship and practical empowerment to make a tangible difference,” she said.
Minekwani added that the conference is ultimately about helping young people discover Christ, purpose and community while being equipped to navigate the challenges of modern life.
For Tshwanelo Moeng, UCON’s impact extends far beyond a weekend conference.
“This is a place where we, as young people, have learned leadership practically,” she said. “We have learned how to communicate, serve people, solve problems, organise events and work under pressure.”
Moeng, who attended the conference as a young participant and now serves as a full-time volunteer, believes the experience has equipped her with skills that reach far beyond church ministry.
“These are not just church skills; they are life skills. They have helped me grow as a leader and given me confidence to face challenges in everyday life.”
As preparations continue for this year’s conference, organisers remain hopeful that the gathering will not only draw large numbers but also produce lasting fruit in the lives of the young people who attend.
For more information follow the church’s Facebook page at facebook.com/people/New-Covenant-Fellowship-International/100076089709712/
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