By Gerda Potgieter, Devoted Magazine
More than 6 000 young people from across South Africa and neighbouring countries gathered at the KwaSizabantu Mission Station in Kranskop from June 30 to July for the mid-year Youth Conference. The theme “Above all else, guard your heart” encouraged attendees to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, pursue spiritual growth and live according to biblical principles in their everyday lives.
The conference aims to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ, encourage repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation, help young people overcome destructive lifestyles and addictions, provide biblical teaching and Christian discipleship, and equip participants to become positive influences in their families, schools, churches and communities.
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Conference sessions addressed a range of issues affecting young people, including peer pressure, destructive habits, substance abuse, social challenges and the growing influence of digital culture. The message consistently emphasised personal responsibility and the importance of seeking support when facing difficulties. The young people were also encouraged to become positive influences within their families, schools, churches and communities.
A particularly powerful aspect of the programme was the sharing of personal testimonies. Former addicts and individuals who had experienced significant life transformation spoke about overcoming destructive lifestyles and finding hope through faith, accountability and support. These testimonies resonated strongly with attendees and reinforced the conference’s message that lives can be restored and renewed.
A special highlight of the week was the Sports and Fun Day. A variety of recreational activities were designed to encourage teamwork, friendship and healthy competition. All attendees were encouraged to participate.
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Since its inception in 1974, the KwaSizabantu Youth Conference has grown into one of the country’s longest-running and most sustainable youth gatherings. It continues to provide spiritual and social support to thousands of young people each year, offering encouragement and practical guidance at a time when many face significant personal and societal challenges.
The conference forms part of KwaSizabantu’s broader outreach among communities throughout SA. For more than 55 years, the Mission has worked to address social challenges through counselling, discipleship, youth development initiatives and community outreach programmes. These include the Concerned Young People of South Africa (CYPSA) programme, which focuses on issues such as addiction, abuse and human trafficking while supporting young people seeking a healthier and more constructive path in life. KwaSizabantu’s leadership said they remain committed to serving communities through spiritual ministry, youth development and practical support. True to its isiZulu name, meaning “the place where people are helped,” the mission continues to seek ways of bringing hope, healing and positive direction to individuals, families and communities across Southern Africa.
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