Vibrant Sport empowers youth through self-defence in Junxion
Learners from Dr. Nelson Mandela High School going through their drills during the skills workshop hosted by Vibrant sport and Junxion Mall on Youth day.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
June 16, which marks Youth Day, is a significant day in South Africa's history, commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising, a day that serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards youth empowerment and education.
True to this spirit, Vibrant Sport in collaboration with Junxion Mall, transformed the mall into a dynamic hub of activity by engaging the youth of Philippi in meaningful ways.
This year, on Youth Day, the spotlight was on the pupils from Dr. Nelson R. Mandela High School, who were introduced to the fundamentals of self-defense and kickboxing by the Ottery-based gym.
Under the guidance of Vibrant Sport coaches and seasoned kickboxing trainers from Cape Town, the pupils delved into techniques that emphasised discipline and will make the learners focused and build self-confidence going forward.
Ruhan Louw demonstrating some self defence moves
Image: Buntu Gotywa
While the event used the significance of the Youth Day to introduce the youth to martial arts, the overarching goal was to instill values that would resonate long after the event concluded.
Josh Cloete, a stalwart in community development through martial arts, spearheaded the initiative.
Mr Cloete has long worked with underprivileged youth. "The objective on a day like this is not to make champions out of individuals but to ensure a breakaway from the normal everyday activities and hopefully encourage them to join the Junxion Kickboxing club," he said.
Dorothy Cloete taking her leaners through some self defence techniques.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
His sentiments were seemingly echoed by the participation of the pupils, many of whom displayed an eagerness to learn and engage with the sport.
The event was not just about showcasing techniques, but it was about creating an environment where the youth could experience a sense of achievement.
Mr Cloete said he was particularly happy with the positive response from Dr. Nelson R. Mandela High School, highlighting the strong collaboration between the institution and Vibrant Sport.
A noteworthy highlight from the Philippi area is the emergence of young talents making waves in the K1 kickboxing scene, and are members of Junxion Kickboxing.
Sara Ajam was also among the kickboxing coaches taking the learners through some kickboxing techniques.
Image: Buntu Gotywa
Just a month ago, member Benaty Yamile competed internationally at an event on Réunion Island. Not only did Mr Yamile secure a victory, but he did so with a first-round knockout, bringing home a championship belt.
Ruhan Louw, Roslyn Humphreys, Sara Ajam, Dorothy Cloete, Josh Cloete and Jeremy Petersen are the coaches that took charge of the Junxion skills workshop.
Image: Buntu Gotywa