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The Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts(DSAC) and Culture, in partnership with the Northern Cape Department of Education, hosted a successful 2026 Golekane Mentorship Camp at Boontjieskraal.
The three-day mentorship camp brought together 150 female learners from across the five districts of the Northern Cape to embark highlight on their journey of discovery and unite by a shared desire to learn, grow and to shape a better future.
Golekane Mentorship Camp is a national programme, aimed at promoting personal growth, skills development and the empowerment of young women mostly in rural areas.
Through a structured programme of mentorship, learners are encouraged to explore their strengths, values and future aspirations while developing the confidence and resilience needed to overcome life’s challenges.
The programme has been designed to equip participants with essential life skills that contribute to their personal development, mental wellness and overall well-being.
It also seeks to foster positive self-esteem, responsible decision-making and leadership among the next generation of female leaders.
The learners, identified by the Department of Education, participated in interactive workshops, leadership development sessions, team-building activities and motivational talks centred on the values of respect, accountability, discipline and leadership.
The also participated in a Youth Dialogue on Climate Change, facilitated by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI.
This also highlighted the important role young people play in protecting the country’s natural heritage through interactive learning activities.
Motivational speakers shared their personal journeys and encouraged participants to pursue their dreams through determination, discipline and perseverance.
The Acting HOD Adv Thulani Binase encouraged the participants to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and become agents of change in their communities, carrying the responsibility that comes with the knowledge they have gained.
He applauded their courage of participating with confidence in the camp and sharing their stories, challenges and ambition.
“Some of these stories are filled with dreams and ambition, while others carry challenges that many people never see. Yet what has inspired me most is that throughout this camp, you have demonstrated the courage to listen, to speak honestly, to support one another and to embrace opportunities to grow. That, in itself, is leadership,” said Binase.
“We expect you to become ambassadors for the empowerment of women and girls, and young leaders who influence your peers through your actions, your integrity and your compassion.
“When another young girl is struggling with self-confidence, be the one who encourages her.
“When you witness bullying, exclusion or discrimination, be the one who stands up for what is right.
“When conversations around Gender-Based Violence and Femicide take place in your schools, do not remain silent. Share what you have learnt. Help others understand that respect, equality and dignity are not optional values, they are the foundation of every healthy community.
Your greatest achievement after this camp will not be receiving a certificate, but seeing another young person make a better decision because of something you shared.”
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