Changing young lives through sport
KwaMthethwa's Lungani Mthethwa is on a mission to create awareness against alcohol abuse.
MAKING his way to the top is KwaMthethwa teenager Lungani Mthethwa (16).
From orphan to future leader in the making, Lungani is definitely a force to be reckoned with and aims to inspire other youngsters to live up to their full potential.
The rising star is part of the television programme Future Leaders on SABC 1.
In a nationwide search for community leaders, Lungani outshined others and made the cut to the top.
During the show he was required to create and implement a community project for young people.
His goal is to rebuild his community soccer field for his peers.
According to Lungani, the purpose of the project is to create a platform for others to engage in community activities and fight against alcohol abuse among teenagers.
‘I want to create an awareness in my community. Having a sports field in a good condition will help others have something to do, instead of engaging in alcohol and substance abuse. At the moment the field doesn’t have grass and is in a bad condition,’ he said.
He encouraged communities in the uThungulu District to play a role in uplifting their communities by creating places where youth can engage and apply their talents.
‘Being involved in sport keep youngsters from the streets. It can give them an opportunity to communicate with each other about positive things.’
During a special visit at the Zululand Observer Richards Bay offices, Lungani said he has approached other community leaders to be involved in the project.
‘If we work together we can create a brighter future for everyone.’
‘No one thought I could make it this far, that’s why I want to help others like me. I want to encourage people with no hope and dreams to persevere.’
Lungani is a living example that a disadvantaged background cannot define what someone becomes in the future. Catch him on SABC 1 every Tuesday at 10pm.
