By Madali Chibambu

• More than 70 boys from departmental programmes gathered at Planet Fitness Gym in Springs to mark the International Day of the Boy Child, observed annually on 16 May
• The gathering, themed “Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard and Seen,” formed part of Child Protection Month
• Boys participated in motivational talks, life-skills sessions, aerobics, and interactive activities aimed at building confidence and positive values

More than 70 boy children, who are beneficiaries in various departmental programmes came together to celebrate the International Day of the Boy Child at a gathering hosted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development in partnership with the City of Ekurhuleni, Heartlines, and the Institutes of Mathematics.

Held at Planet Fitness Gym in Springs, Eastern Corridor, the gathering formed part of the department’s Child Protection Month programme and was celebrated under the theme: “Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard and Seen.”

The day highlighted the importance of recognising and empowering boys, while also addressing the challenges many face as they grow into adulthood. Often overlooked, the boy child continues to face a lack of mentorship, emotional support, and positive guidance. Through initiatives such as these, the department aims to contribute meaningfully towards the development, empowerment, and wellbeing of boys.

According to Social Worker Meme Ndaba from the eastern corridor, Child Protection Month is a national campaign aimed at mobilising communities to promote and protect children’s rights while creating safer environments for their care and development.

“Children continue to experience abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm in homes, schools, communities, and even on digital platforms. It is therefore important that we create platforms where boys feel supported, heard, and encouraged,” said Ndaba.

She added that the programme targeted boys between the ages of 10 and 18 years, who attended alongside their teachers and mentors.

During breakaway sessions, boys participated in motivational talks and life-skills discussions facilitated by partners such as Heartlines Fathers Matter. Facilitator Fana Ndlovu encouraged the boys to embrace positive values and make wise life choices.

“Learn to express your emotions and believe in yourself. Value who you are and stay away from negative influences,” Ndlovu advised.

The programme also included fun-filled activities such as aerobics, movies, and interactive sessions designed to inspire confidence and build positive social connections among the boys.

Event coordinator and Social Worker Lesego Mathebula said the initiative was aimed at creating a safe and uplifting space where boys could openly discuss important issues such as bullying, peer pressure, and positive masculinity.

“We are pleased to bring boys together in a positive environment where they can learn, interact, and be encouraged to become good role models in their communities,” said Mathebula.

For many of the attendees, the day was both memorable and inspiring. One young attendee shared how meaningful the experience was for him.

“I had never been inside a gym before. I only saw places like this on television, so being here today made me feel very special. I learned a lot about becoming a better man, believing in myself, and having good values,” he said with a smile.

International Day of the Boy Child is observed annually on 16 May.