Cape Metro Marching Association's youth camp empowers young leaders

Western Cape youth gathered at Eco‑Princess Vlei from Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27 for a camp hosted by the Cape Metro Marching Association (CMMA).

The three‑day programme blended drill, life skills, and interviews to build self‑awareness and strengthen decision‑making.

Ten different schools participated, including Pelican Park Primary, Levana Primary, Heathfield High, Montagu's Gift Primary, Delta Primary, Die Duine Primary, Lavender Hill High, Fairmount High, Delft Community Cadets, and Young Soldiers Community Cadets.

The camp proved that youth development is about more than just marching. The weekend combined drill training with powerful life skills sessions on peer pressure, goal-setting, and making positive choices.

Coach Courtney Hahn, representing Fairmount High School, plays a vital role in overseeing fitness training and responsibilities such as roll call. Her focus extends beyond physical activity - she is committed to boosting the children’s self-esteem and self-discipline, helping them grow both personally and socially.

“I personally want to see them enjoying themselves,” said Ms Hahn, adding that while some children struggle socially, they are slowly but surely making progress.

She spoke of witnessing remarkable transformations - young participants who arrive shy and reserved leave the programme with newfound confidence.

“This workshop helps children who face challenges such as gang violence. Initiatives like these keep them off the streets and focused on positive goals.”

Coach Sadick Smith, from the Delft Community Cadets, echoed these sentiments.

“I’ve seen how much the children have grown through learning social skills,” he said.

“They were taught teamwork, communication, and to understand that everyone is different -  and that’s okay.”

Each child will receive a certificate of participation, which can be added to their CVs as they pursue future jobs or careers.

“It’s a mark of discipline,” said Mr Smith. “They’ve learned respect, and how to address coaches and educators respectfully - using ‘sir’ instead of ‘you’.”

He encouraged the children to continue with their progress. “Keep marching and practice daily,” he advised.

Roy Prinsloo, a retired teacher of Fairmount High School and chairperson of the CMMA, a non-profit organisation, said they have several workshops during the year.

As a former life skills teacher with more than 15 years in youth marching, “I’ve seen how many young people lack direction. This camp aimed to change that -  helping youth ask themselves: 'How do I make the right choices?'”

“Despite limited funding, we made the camp a success using our own resources. But to grow this initiative, we need help,” he said.

“We’re calling on sponsors and community partners to invest in our youth - through donations in cash or kind - and help us build a stronger future for our country. This is more than marching. It’s marching forward with purpose.

“Thanks to all who supported CMMA - and here’s to investing in the youth of tomorrow through practical skills and positive guidance,” said Mr Prinsloo.

For more information contact Mr Prinsloo at 063 410 0805.