I recently helped with the activities at the 50th anniversary of the KwaSizabantu Youth Conferences, and I have shared some behind-the-scenes information with the Riser’s readers. I visited different venues randomly and spoke with around twenty people to understand the organisation behind the event and its purpose. Those I spoke with were regular helpers, but I know others came to help for the first time. Those who come regularly to help said they would do it again, God willing.
Since its inception, KwaSizabantu has been a beacon of hope for young people, hosting youth conferences twice a year. These week-long events, which provide free accommodation, gospel teachings, and life skills training, have profoundly impacted the lives of those who attended. The Mission's commitment to this cause is further strengthened by its collaboration with churches, schools, and charity organisations.
I had an hour-long talk with one of the ladies helping prepare the food for the almost 8,000 youngsters who registered for the week-long event. She caught my attention because of her age and the joy of how she went about doing the work. Greama Kwela is a resident and worker at KwaSizabantu and is in her golden years but as fit as a fiddle. She put a lot of youngsters to shame and worked with more vigour than I saw people half her age doing! She said she enjoys the work tremendously and is thankful for being part of it. “I was here from the beginning when Erlo Stegen started with KwaSizabantu”, she said. “I was part of his ministry when he started, even before that when the revival came to Maphumulo. I got married in 1966 – I was the first to get married here at KwaSizabantu. I was here from the beginning of the youth conferences and was at all of them.” What a revelation that was – for 50 years, twice a year, this old lady did what she likes the most, and in between conferences: Sharing the gospel with those who want to hear and serve His people literally! What a testament to what it means to be a great servant…
The Thursday after the conference, the Mission held a braai for all the workers, and I have learned my most valuable lesson of gratitude. It was now time for the Mission’s management to serve those who served the others during the event…
One of the most inspiring outcomes of the youth conferences is the CYPSA restoration program. Over the years, thousands of young men who attended a youth conference decided to change their lives and asked for help after they were touched by a message. The program was formed to support these individuals and has since helped over 20,000 people start a new life. Some choose to stay behind and help others in need, sharing their experiences to inspire hope and change.
My visit to KwaSizabantu for the youth conference was a powerful reminder of the role of gratitude in personal development. I witnessed firsthand that attitude makes all the difference. Attitude is gratitude without the “gr,” and it is this attitude that can help a person overcome all that is wrong in his/her life. Gratitude, being thankful for even the most minor things, has the power to transform us into better, more resilient individuals.
Do not miss the following article focusing on the paying it forward principle.
TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS CONFERENCE, READ THE SPECIAL PUBLICATION BY FOLLOWING THE LINK: https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/heul/
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