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The vibrant KwaSizabantu Youth Conference, held from July 3 to 9 under the inspiring theme "Wake Up, O Sleeper!", brought together over 6,000 young people at the mission station in KwaZulu-Natal to be accommodated, kept busy, and provided with food. Over 10,000 attended on Thanksgiving Sunday, July 6. The auditorium can only accommodate around 10,000, and the overflow was accommodated in a tent located behind the auditorium. This Christian event offers youth the opportunity to learn, grow, and uplift one another while deepening their connection to the Word of God and forming lasting friendships with like-minded peers. Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi from the Buthelezi Clang delivered the special message at the Thanksgiving event and topics such as drug and alcohol abuse, abortion, and teenage pregnancy were spot-on to deal with the current social issues the country grapples with. It was a truly enriching and memorable experience for all involved! This biannual KwaSizabantu Youth Conference is a sustainable event, having hosted 102 conferences since its inception more than 50 years ago in 1974. It is an effective means of engaging young people, giving them a positive sense of self, teaching them self-control and decision-making skills, providing them with prosocial connections, and enriching their lives with a moral system of belief while sharing the gospel with them. The conferences have been a source of great blessings, providing hope for thousands of young people who have attended and have had their lives changed for the better. The collaboration between various denominations, churches, schools, and other organisations backs the Youth Conference. Those who are unable to attend the conference can tune into Radio Kwezi, the Mission’s radio station, or use the streaming platform on its website. All daily services are broadcast in isiZulu, English, German, French, Sesotho, and Portuguese. Three services were held daily, excluding Sundays, on which the morning service would start at 11:00 a.m.  The youngsters could also participate in a sports day on Monday, and the games were designed so that all could participate in friendly competitions where outstandings participants were rewarded. The logistics of the youth conference are enormous. Since Tuesday, 8 July, the buses started to drive across South Africa and even neighbouring countries to take the young people back to their various destinations. Given that the Mission held its 102nd youth conference, it is worth noting that the Mission's people have refined their event management logistics and can serve as an example and inspiration to others. Accommodating, feeding, and keeping thousands of young people busy for a week without any serious incident is a scary idea for most of us. At KwaSizabantu, the preparation and events run smoothly, and for every incident, there is an immediate outcome or solution – event management par excellence!  The good part is that the youth conference is free for the participants because it is sponsored by the Mission and its business entity, aQuellé, the water bottling company, in totality. (Information provided by Devoted magazine. Read inspiring articles from young people who have given their lives for the Lord on the website under Restored Lives and in various editions: https:// www.devotedmag.co.za / )

Multitalented Gospel Star, Nokulunga Dindi ( 37 ) is residing at KwaMaphumulo, KwaZulu Natal Province in South Africa. She attented Timoni Primary school, Phoenix Secondary, UKZN and UNISA and currently working a Dramatic Arts teacher. “Singing and creative arts was always my passion. My primary school teachers, Miss Mkhwanazi and Mr Zwane became my mentors in modelling and music when I was 7 years of age. I sang in Mr Magwaza' s school Choir  at Timoni Primary school as one of the leading Sopranos and I never looked back. I was recognised by my geography teacher Mrs Govender at high school and embraced as the anthem girl in school assembly and won many awards throughout my high school years. I also performed on Gospel Gold when I was 14”, she said. A songstress has released two albums titled “ Mthombo wokuphila ", “ Akukakabonakali ” and EP titled “ Noma Kunje ” released under marketing agency by Nonhle Ndinisa called Ivilicious Onica Entertainment. “Ivilicious Onica Entertainment exposed my craft beyond KwaZulu Natal Province to other South African provinces and abroad. I am always grateful to my mentor and colleague at KwaSizabantu Mission, Mr Mzi Ndlovu for noticing my talent as well as being introduced to Nonhle Ndinisa. I performed in so many place during my music career and left audience entertained at SAGRA AWARDS 2023 in East London. It was such a special night to share same stage with talents such as Sister Nobathembu, Brother Betusile and Brother Thembinkosi”, added Nokulunga. Like many industries, she faced a challenge of exposing her first album till joining Nonhle Ndinisa Marketing Agency. She was later exposed to well-known awards such as Ingoma, SAGRA and KZN Namuhla awards (where she won “Best New Comer in 2023”). “There is a lot of talent in the villages, unfortunately lack of exposure to quality studios like LMP by Lwazi Mngomezulu, Commercial Radio Stations, Televisions or Newspapers is a concern. The survival in the music industry is lot, artists must make a lot of research about quality recording studios, marketing their music and registrations on platforms in order to claims their royalties. My advice to all aspiring artist is to compose original music and find their unique style. I would like to thank all my fans and everyone who is involved in shaping my craft. God bless you” she concluded. Bookings can be done: Facebook: Nokulunga Dindi |Tiktok : Mamkhize Obomvu | Email: lungadindee@gmail.com

The KwaSizabantu Mission is currently preparing for its highly anticipated first biannual youth conference of the year, scheduled to take place from July 3 to July 9. The theme for the conference is "Wake Up, O Sleeper" (Ephesians 5:14). Attendance is free of charge, and now is the time to plan and register for those interested in participating.   This youth conference aims to strengthen the moral fibre of the youth while sharing the Gospel with them. Since 1974, KwaSizabantu has hosted youth conferences twice yearly at its mission station in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal. As these conferences grew in attendees, logistical arrangements developed into a blueprint plan to present a world-class conference of this calibre! These logistics are worth reporting on.   To manage such an event requires tremendous organisational expertise, very willing hands, and a servant's attitude. KwaSizabantu joins hands with various communities and churches to attend the conference. Transport is made available to them at no cost, from far and wide across the country and even neighbouring countries.  Planning already starts months in advance. A few days before the start of the conference, the youth are fetched by bus and dropped off at their meeting points directly after the conference ends. The buses run from the Mission near Kranskop and travel as far as Swaziland, Pretoria, Johannesburg, and around KwaZulu-Natal.   The youth services are broadcast in various languages on the Mission's radio station, Radio Khwezi, at 107.7 or 95.5 FM. These services are also live-streamed, and anyone can plug into them worldwide through the Radio Garden app. On Sundays during the conferences, the 10-thousand auditorium is usually packed with others from around the world who also come to listen to the life-changing messages.   In Luke 14:13-14, Jesus commands us: "No, if you give a feast, then invite the poor, the crippled, and the blind. You can count yourself lucky that they have nothing to compensate you with because God will compensate you at the resurrection of those who have done right." In line with this command, KwaSizabantu nourishes the bodies and souls of young people, many of whom come from dire circumstances and broken homes, seeking help. And while it's not easy to feed so many hungry children and teenagers three times a day, the eight 350-litre cooking pots run non-stop to prepare the next meal.   The young people are kept busy between services. Watching how they were looked after without restraining them too much is amazing! Someone keeps a close eye on them the whole time, and a medical doctor and medical team are on duty to aid where needed. With so many young souls gathered, it is surprising that there have been no serious incidents so far. Everything is under control the whole time due to the work the co-workers and volunteers put in.   The sports day is a highlight of the programme, and everyone can participate and expend their excess energy. The various sports are carefully designed and organised so that everyone can choose whether to participate, ensuring that no one is overlooked. Everyone can participate and share in the fun and competition, from healthy games to football matches.   We live in challenging times, where youth are being confronted with all sorts of social ills. Without steadfast role models, it is sometimes impossible for children to grow into full-fledged and happy adults without extra help. The KwaSizabantu Youth Conference is doing incredible work among young people to prepare them to face these challenges and to make a difference in their communities.  Over the years, the youth conference has become a vital catalyst for recruiting individuals into the Kingdom and assisting those with severe problems and addictions. The Concerned Young People of South Africa (CYPSA) programme has since come into existence to deal with social issues such as addiction, child molestation, and human trafficking, to name a few. So far, they've helped over 20,000 young people struggling with various social issues and other challenges, all free of charge.   For more information and to register, please visit www.ksb.org.za .

One question you can ask yourself is when are we gonna stop singing about “High rate of unemployment?” What is our governments doing about this? Why do we keep VOTING for criminals? Molepo Phagiso Geoffrey  ( 29 ) is from Mentz, Malesa in Limpopo Province, South Africa. After completing his matric at Makgoka High School, he went to study Civil Engineering specializing with Plumbing at Seshego TVET College. His love for soccer was lost because of lack of services in the rural arears. “I grew up with my siblings and my grandmother who raised us when our parents were busy hustling for us. My granny supported me big time, she always say “ Show me your friends I will show you your future ”, she instilled self-discipline in me. A reason for me to choose plumbing is the struggles of my community. We use to go far places to fetch water, so I believed and had a faith that if I open a plumbing company, I will be able to have a hand in assisting in water projects that supplies the community”, he said. An ambitious young guy registered his business, Phagis Plumbing and Services aiming to give back to the community and reduce rate of unemployment. “So far I have hired about 22 boys and girls around my community, which really makes a big impact in my community, I want to see most youth being employed in order to fight depression, poverty and unemployment rate. Sometimes I give away few food parcels to families that need them the most. I do everything from the bottom of my heart, with kindness and love”, he added. A happy employee named Joas Ntabane, started working for the company since day one said: “I am proud to work with Phagiso, one of the best guy who is passion about the community. I learned lot of things by working with him, he is not stingy and willing to share his experience with our youth”. “There are lot of challenges I come across, lack of proper tools and transportation is the main concern. I have clients around my community as well as Turfloop, Polokwane, Moletjie and Mmotong but struggling because of transportation which costs me to catch a taxi. I am grateful for my clients and the support from my community. I no longer market my business anymore, my clients always recommend me”, concluded Phagiso. For sponsors/ services: 077 3659 216 | Email: Phagisomolepo@gmail.com

Talking about a humble artist, go to Youtube and google Metrobeatz RSA! Bongani Mossetia Macebele (20) is originally from Giyani – ka Khakhula, Limpopo Province but currently residing in Gauteng Province – South Africa. The rising super star attended school at Muhawu High School. “I started making music at the age of 14, after my mom bought me a laptop. Many people do know that I produced for Penny Penny, Baba Harare from Zimbabwe and Queen Vosho from Mozambique at the age of 16. Music is in my blood, my songs are inspired by what happening in life and my surroundings. My mother, my manager and people around me assist in sharing some life stories”, he said. Self-acclaimed Prince of Xigaza , started with Mapiano genre before switching to Xigaza music. He has lot of Mapiano songs and released Xigaza EP (6 songs) with a lead single titled “ Xitori na Xitori ” and 3 singles including hit title “ forever wena ” which has a video that played at Channel O and Mzansi Magic. “The love am getting from my fans is amazing, I am growing every day and people appreciate my music. My dream is to work with J John because he writes real music, not hype or trends but songs that last longer. Many people like to exploit music, there's always unnecessary desire from my peers to have beef. I think we tend to forget that we are who we are because of the fans”, added Metrobeatz. Upcoming and aspiring musicians can learn from legends such as Dr Thomas Chauke, Dr Joe Shirimani, Benny Mayengani etc, they respect music as an art that can really bring food on the table. “I am currently working on an album ( 12 – 16 tracks ) with a title “ Boti ” as a lead single. My advice to all artists is to keep pushing, find who you are and stick to it – never give up and always know that the beginning is always hard” he concluded. RAN team wishes this young talent all the best. Booking can be done: 0789841716 or MetrobeatzRSA@gmail.com

RAN has been trying hard to expose African talents. Phuti spoke with a musician and producer all the way from South Sudan – northeast of Africa . Lotio Francis Mike  (27), is one of humble artist who always leave pride aside and focus on his God given talent. Born in Yei, Myke Karter Beatz , as popularly known, finished his high school in Kajjansi Progressive Secondary School in Uganda. “I started my music production using a smart phone in the late 2016 and then later joined producer Joshman Perfection in Arua - Uganda who mentored me through professional music production in 2018”, he said. Myke Karter is inspired by the likes of Joshman Perfection, Linsu de genius, Nessim pan production, Daddy Andre, Artin pro, Krizz Beatz , Rexxie, P prime, Niphkeys and Master KG. He produced and sang on couple of songs including a hit song titled “Arkap” collaborated with Fuji FuMoney. In 2022, December 24, he released an EP titled “Karma Love and Affection" “Music industry has lot of challenges, there is lack of unity and support for our music. A tendency of quitting school once you make music is still a trend. Artist’s pride of hustling to make ends meet is also a concern”, added Myke Karter People love this young man, the attitude on streets says it all. “I receive lot of recognition from lot of people and fans regarding my work. My projects are on hold due to weakness in immunity and some little issues around but my fans can expect more of good music from me. Learn to pray and believe that you can achieve it. Dare to dream it shall be well. Never give up. Respect you elders  and learn to listen to what you are told. Keep in school if there is an opportunity”, he concluded. Bookings can be done: Facebook: Myke Karter Rex | https://www.facebook.com/share/1JtMqQd25g/?mibextid=qi2Omg Instagram: Myke Karter Beatz | https://www.instagram.com/mykekarter/?hl=en Twitter( X): Myke Karter Beatz https://x.com/mykekarter_?s=09 WhatsApp: +211924935244

Down in the small village called Moshate (Ga Sekororo) , Limpopo Province in South Africa there is young talented Pedi Rapper who is ready to take the world with her well-cooked lyrics and beats! Mercia Thobejane  lost her father at an early age and was raised by a single strong mom who ensures that everything is in order. YunLi Lethabo , as popularly known, sings in Sepedi Language to express, entertain and heal her fan’s souls. “I started making music while doing Grade 5 but focused more in 2018 after being inspired by Lyrical wa Motlokwa, Maleboo and Fifi Cooper. The death of my father inspired me to write a song called “ chance to heaven ” produced by Terry West. I released 2 EP’s, 1 album and few singles”, she said. YunLi‘s fans are crazy about her latest single titled “ EX ” featuring sdudla or slender  hitmaker Shandesh the Vocalist  - produced by King Tipps. “My songs are dedicated to people who are going through a lot on daily basis, I encourage them to never give in life, patience is a key and we are all going to succeed like one of my song titled “ re tlo fihla ka nkane  ( we will reach there by force )”, she added. Talented artist enjoyed performing at Master KG’s homecoming event at Maruleng Show ground and Mogalakwena Beach Pub. She is currently busy cooking more music,  which will be released around June. “My last message to all aspiring artist is to be original, do not try to copy other artist’s styles, surround yourself with positive people, avoid beefing in the industry and ensure your social platforms are clean. All thanks to management team and my fans across the globe, I am nothing without you guys”, concluded YunLi Booking can be done: 072 406 4495 / 063 746 0397

A 19-year-old social media sensation and comedian, Nditsheni Ramakgolo is here to ensure your day is full of fun. Born in Botlokwa village, Limpopo province in South Africa, the funny comedian went to Fedile High School and just completed his Matric last year. “This is a wonderful opportunity for me to tell my fans about myself. I started comedy in 2018 when I was doing grade 7. I actually started with videos but realised that lot of comedians in Limpopo Province are more into videos and it was not working for me. I became creative and thought of something unique so I started making comedy by using only pictures in 2024, suddenly people fell in love with my content. Nobody inspired me to tell the truth, I think I was born for this”, he said. Rams Comedy , as popularly known on social media, does not write nor prepare any script for his content. “I just shoot many pictures then choose the funny ones because my content does not require me to shoot and reshoot. I do not have many challenges, I just think of reality and make fun out of it”, he added. Like many careers, one has to face negativity from people but not for Rams Comedy. He gets lot of support from his fans who are mostly adults and they encourage him to take it easy when coming to negative comments. He rather focus on the next project than dwell with jealous people. “I am so lucky to have wonderful community on my side; they are always there for a support. People are excited when they see me on the streets, they love my content and I appreciate it. My advice to all people who want to make it in life is to not give up, it is not easy, just push content you will reach there” , he concluded. People can follow his work on social media : Facebook - @Rams Comedy

Nothing is depressing than watching fellow graduates sitting at the local spaza shops wasting their lives. Gift Dibakoane (24) is a founder and managing director of Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers from Praktiseer, outside of Burgersfort, Limpopo Province in South Africa. This Business Studies graduate could not waste his time typing and sending CV’s looking for a job but applied his skills in Retail Fundamentals, Products and Services, Merchandising and Buying, Sales and Marketing, Customer Service and Experience to start a business. “I have chosen to invest my 20 months R350 Budget from the South Africa Social Security Agency (SASSA) government grant in my business and create my own employment opportunities. I have faced numerous challenges, but I have persevered and grown my business into a successful enterprise”, he said. Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers offers cleaning services to homes, schools and offices and technology products such as Electronic Smart desk, a school desk fitted with thermal sensor to detect any metal weapons such as knives and guns brought by learners at schools. A mobile Solar Cooler Bag fitted with solar panel, charging electronic smart phones and music. It also offer a range of cleaning products, such as dishwasher liquid, Tile/Floor Stripper,  Car Shampoo, Toilet papers and supply branded archar to homes, restaurants and shops. “My company has grown to employ 8 young people and it helps me grow mentally as an entrepreneur. I remain committed to motivate young people to set up their goals and pursue entrepreneurship. I want to raise awareness about the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs. My goal is to inspire young people to take control of their own lives and create their own opportunities,” he concluded. In June 2025, youth month, Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers be donating free cleaning services to disability schools around Burgersfort and outside.

In the heart of eMgudule, Reservoir Hills, in Durban at KwaZulu-Natal province, a powerful community initiative is changing the lives of children. Chris, the owner of Siripati Copy Shop, raised his hand to use his time and resources to teach local kids computer skills—giving them knowledge that can open doors in the future. Working hand in hand with Mthobisi Zwane, a dedicated young man who teach learners and helps them with homework. Mthobisi brings more than just academic support—he brings life lessons. When asking what inspired him, Mthobisi said, “I was inspired by myself actually, my personal experience growing up. I didn’t have these opportunities... If I did, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today. But I’m grateful that I’m here with the people who need me, which also inspires me to wake up and do what I do again and again and again—tirelessly.” The initiative goes beyond books and computers. I had the chance to work with Chris, Mthobisi, and Samantha to guide kids in writing and performing poetry. One of the poems, "Breaking the Silence: The Cry of Brotherhood," written by Vathiswa Dlamini, was performed with passion by the children. Samantha played a big role in helping the kids prepare for the poem, showing her dedication to their growth. In her spare time, she also supported Mthobisi with tutoring, always lending a hand where it was needed most. Chris is more than a businessman but the heart of the community. He’s helping children stay off the streets, giving them purpose, and guiding them with love. Many now call him the community’s angel, and rightfully so. This small corner of Reservoir Hills is proof that change begins with just a few people who care—and that care can grow into a movement that lights up young minds with hope.

A true inspiring story about multitalented artist named Judgement Fire. Moshala Philemon Shadung was born in a place called Kalkspruit, Ga Magongwa outside Polokwane in South Africa. His family moved to Ga Thoka village around Mankweng in 2000 where he attended school at Dikolobe Primary school and Mountain View Secondary School. Chatting with him about the love for music, Judgement said: “In 2004, I became a member of a Gospel Choir named “ Hlokwa la Tsela Gospel Group ”, and then went on to sing Wedding songs in 2007. I sat down and told myself that the sky is the limit myself, in 2008 I joined RNB, Reggae and house music till I found my favourite platform which is PEDI Rap. I am also a producer” Working with superstars such as Dacker (Hip Hop artist), Nico The Pro, M Dey, SO Beat, Kay Christy and others has never made him proud and loose it. Judgement Fire is proud hustler who do almost any job to put food on the table, you may find him selling Mopani worms close University of Limpopo, bricklaying, carpentry work, painting, farming and cleaning yards. “One cannot rely on music because it’s hard out there. Artists are facing lot of things, lack of gigs, lack of exposure or airplay. I am a man also need to provide and survive”, he added.  He released hit songs such as “Naledi”, “Basadi”, “Ke nyaka wena” under Verbal Silence Entertainment and still cooking for new EP. He is proud to share stage with Mapara a Jazz, Richie le C Boy Teanet, Shandesh, legendary Bricks MaBrigado and Saxophone wa Kasi. Judgment Fire can be found: 072 314 2879 |Facebook: Judement Fire SA |Youtube: Judgement Fire |Instagram : Judgement Fire SA | Tik Tok: King of Vocal | Email Address: moshalajudgenent@gmail.com

Mfiki Sokhela is a friendly person with a good heart, and his real-life story inspires many. Hailing from the remote village of Msinga, employment opportunities were, and continue to be, extraordinarily limited. The family dynamics added to the weight of his circumstances; he was one of eight children raised by his widowed mother. Their sole means of survival involved the painstaking craft of making clay pots—traditional vessels used to hold beer. They would often sell these pots filled with beer to make ends meet. The harsh reality they faced meant there was no room in their budget for what many would consider necessities, let alone the luxuries of education, which for them seemed like a distant dream back then. He could not read or write. Mfiki was only 17 years old when, out of desperation, he asked the KwaSizabantu Mission in his area for piece jobs. He started caring for the cattle as a herd boy on the Mission’s farm, and after a few years, he began working in the greenhouses with the peppers. From there, he was promoted to management because of his work ethic, and he now works in avocado orchards. “This is my spot,” he told me, “June is harvesting time, and that is when I am happiest.” Mfiki learned how to read and write at the Mission. He works at Emseni Farming, which empowers local farmers through dynamic farmer-to-farmer learning, where knowledge flows freely and experiences are shared. The program actively engages with the community by helping them maximise the potential of their land and providing them with seedlings to nurture their crops. In addition to this support, Emseni hosts hands-on practical demonstrations on sustainable agricultural practices, allowing participants to learn directly in the fields. They offer free workshops with pragmatic insights that ignite passion and confidence in budding farmers. A key partner in their mission is the Maphumulo Tropical Cooperation, with whom they have established a memorandum of understanding to deliver training and mentorship programs. Mfiki admires Dietmar Joosten, the farm manager responsible for all the farming projects on the Mission’s premises. This is a significant responsibility, as Emseni grows export-quality avocados. Mfiki mentioned that he has learned everything he knows about farming from Dietmar, who sets an example for all by the way he treats his workers. “He treats his workers with respect,” he said. “He teaches us with patience and allows us to grow in our roles. He creates a positive environment for all the workers and colleagues. When one’s work and contribution are valued, it motivates us to improve and maintain good work.” Not only did Mfiki find his spot among the avocadoes and a purpose at KwaSizabantu, but also his soulmate! He is happily married, and the couple was blessed with two children. The entire family stays at the mission station, which they call home. (Read the full story of Mfiki’s life journey in our sisters’ publication, Devoted Issue 37, on the website: https://www.devotedmag.co.za/