Bolt celebrates Mandela Day with youth empowerment initiative

 BOLT celebrated Nelson Mandela Day with a unique initiative aimed at empowering the youth.

The company hosted a one-day youth career empowerment expo, “Drive the Future: 67 Minutes for Madiba,” at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg.

Sixty-seven high school learners from Soweto participated in inspiring panel talks, interactive activities, and career demos, gaining valuable insights into potential career paths and industries.

The event was an impactful celebration of Mandela’s values and ideals, providing attendees with opportunities to engage with leading creatives, tech leaders, and BOLT professionals.

The expo offered a platform for the youth to learn, network, and explore their future prospects, aligning with Mandela’s legacy of promoting education and social change.

The event was opened by Lerato Motsoeneng, Senior General Manager of Bolt South Africa, who delivered a powerful welcoming address.

He spoke about his own challenging varsity years, shaped by financial hardship and perseverance.

Motsoeneng shared how those early experiences gave him a deep sense of purpose that continues to guide his leadership today.

In a gesture of commitment to the youth, he even offered to mentor 5 of the students in attendance, further underscoring BOLT’s dedication to empowering the next generation.

One of the guest speakers, Grace Mondlana, a TikToker and influencer with over 1 million followers, shared her inspiring story of perseverance and determination. From struggling to find her footing in high school to overcoming unemployment and self-doubt, Mondlana’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work and self-belief. She encouraged students to work towards their goals every day, citing her own achievements, including saving up her NSFAS money and building a successful career in content creation and property.

With plans to open her own preschool in 2027, Mondlana’s mantra is one of self-empowerment: “I am enough, I am a priority, I accept myself, I am worthy, I am in control, I will succeed, I am deserving, I am powerful, and I’m beautiful.” Her message resonated with the young attendees, inspiring them to take charge of their own futures.

Another speaker, Anele Zondo, a multifaceted rapper, actress, and entrepreneur, emphasized the importance of establishing a clear vision and working towards it with discipline and consistency. She shared her own journey, highlighting the value of believing in oneself and staying focused on one’s goals.

Zondo stressed the importance of networking, collaboration, and building one’s brand, noting that “your network determines your net worth.” She also emphasized the need to stay grounded and know one’s purpose, encouraging the youth to define their “why” and pursue their passions with dedication and perseverance.

Journalist Rethabile Joala shared her own inspiring story of adaptability and determination. From playing the violin at the National School of the Arts to becoming a successful journalist, Joala’s journey is a testament to the power of taking risks and trusting oneself.

She emphasized the importance of being adaptable and open to new opportunities, citing her own experiences in radio presenting and automotive journalism. Joala encouraged the youth to “shoot their shot” and never give up on their dreams, highlighting the value of having a purpose and spiritual journey. Her message was one of hope and empowerment, urging the young attendees to keep moving forward and trust themselves, even when faced with uncertainty and fear.

The event concluded with the high school learners departing with goodie bags and empowering messages from the guest speakers, including Grace Mondlana, Anele Zondo, and Rethabile Joala, as well as members of the BOLT team. The learners also had the opportunity to engage in knowledge games and take a tour around the historic Constitutional Hill.

IOL News