From November 30 – December 4, 2024, The Hub was invited to join a youth Leadership Camp at Help Lesotho in Hlotse. Over the last 20 years of working in rural communities in Lesotho, Help Lesotho has had over 57,000 graduates of intensive life skills and psychosocial support programs and reached more than 300,000 vulnerable people.
We were thrilled for the opportunity to learn from the experienced team at Help Lesotho! The collaboration aligned perfectly with our shared goals of empowering youth and creating opportunities that inspire growth and resilience, equipping youth with the tools they need to overcome challenges and build bright futures.
A team of three set off from Morija on November 30, 2024 with Pontšo Sekhesa, The Hub’s Office Administrator, Thabang Ntlale aka Black Dash, a production intern and high school student, and Kananelo Moshabesha, also a production intern at the Hub. The team told us about their experience, find out more below!
Pontšo:
“The leadership camp allowed me to learn more about working with youth. As much as the sessions were for the youth, I learned much about building self-confidence, self-esteem, and resilience. I felt very impacted by the sessions because I learned a lot from the facilitators. Being part of the sessions gave me an insight into the challenges and issues teenagers face daily
Some of the sessions were very intense; the campers shared their stories, which was an emotional moment. These sessions made me realise how much teenagers have to deal with, from their family issues changes in their bodies and trying to fit in as a teenager. I realised that we have to make it a norm to communicate with our participants about the challenges they encounter as teenagers. We have to be open so that they can open up about issues that could bring them consequences.
The only challenge I experienced was having to be a judge in a debate about ‘Education is the key factor in building resilience and fighting the spread of HIV’. As much as I felt intimidated by this, I was honoured to be one of the judges. I am very proud of myself for this, because now I am confident that I can do it again!
The most rewarding part of this camp was learning about different ways and ideas that I could bring back to The Hub. I am very interested in their programs, one being grade 8 participants being in a workshop with grade 7 participants, to help them be ready for all the challenges they will encounter as new high school students. Another session I thought would be great for The Hub would be anonymous Q&A sessions. The campers wrote down their question anonymously and were assisted. Some wrote about their boyfriends who wanted them to prove their love through sex. I think this helps whoever asked the question to get assistance from grown-ups.
As much as I do not work with kids directly, this camp helped me realize many ways not only academically but emotionally, that we can be pillars for our S&S participants. Encouraging them to be informed and make the right decisions, about self-love and respect so that they are not misled.”
Black Dash:
“I would like to thank The Hub for giving me such a huge opportunity to document for a wondrous organisation like Help Lesotho.
Help Lesotho camp was a very significant and amazing event. The accommodation was good, and the food was very delicious. All the people I met there were amazing including the kids.
Being there for the past four days made me a better person. I learned that everyone is a leader and the way I treat other people is the same way people will treat me. I learned to be resilient, forget about the past and focus on my future. I should believe in myself because by doing so people will believe in me. I also shared my life story to the kids during the lesson of resilience just to motivate them.
The last day I performed my two songs. I was very astonished and excited when I heard that the kids knew them and it was the first time when I performed then the audience sang together with me. I really loved Help Lesotho and hope to get another chance to join next year camp again.”
Kananelo:
“My time in Hlotse, Leribe, was an unforgettable experience. Partnering with Help Lesotho, I witnessed the incredible impact they’re having on the lives of young people in Lesotho. Their passion for education, mental health, fitness & community is genuinely inspiring. What struck me most was the energy and optimism of the young people I met at the camp.
The Help Lesotho team made me feel right at home, making sure we had eaten breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition to being professionals, they’re incredibly warm and welcoming, making one feel like family. Of course, there were some challenges – the scorching heat was intense! But seeing our work come together and put smiles on people’s faces made every moment worth it. Those moments of joy are ingrained in my memory forever.
As I head back to The Hub, I feel like my time in Hlotse has changed me. I’ve picked up new editing skills and a fresh wave of creativity, which I’m excited to apply to future projects. This experience has reminded me of the power of teamwork and dedication in making a real difference. My time with Help Lesotho has been a true adventure, and I’ll carry the memories and lessons with me always.
A special thank you to The Hub, Kate and Bri for everything.”
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Help Lesotho for welcoming our team to join the Leadership Camp in Hlotse! We enjoyed learning more about impactful programming, and the spirit of leadership and community empowerment. The experience left the team motivated to continue fostering growth and leadership among youth in Morija! We look forward to future collaborations!
Learn more about Help Lesotho:
The Hub 