Global Solidarity Project 2025
Over the past few weeks, the GSP team have been working collaboratively with volunteers from the Tsholofelo Community in Phokeng. Together, we have facilitated residential youth camps for local young people. This Youth Development Programme involves educational workshops, team building activities, fun games, talent shows and drama performances!
To prepare for the programme, both Friends of Africa and Tsholofelo volunteers were trained and gained a qualification in Youth Work. Initial planning also took place through Zoom calls between South Africa and Ireland. The main prep for camp happened when we all met in person and used our combined youth work skills and knowledge to provide the best camp possible for the young people.
Once we arrived in Phokeng, we were split into mixed groups of FOA and Tsholofelo volunteers to plan our outdoor games and indoor workshops. We collaborated effectively to plan these workshops on sexual health, healthy relationships, health and sanitation and self-awareness, using the Global Youth Work Toolkit. Each group was also tasked with cleaning, supervising breaks and cooking meals for over 40 people!
The partnership which exists between Friends of Africa and the Tsholofelo Community is key in ensuring these projects run successfully. The young people that we work with live in the informal settlements of Freedom Park, Siza and Mpho Khuno. Throughout the year the Tsholofelo volunteers provide education and skills training in these areas for those who otherwise would not get the chance. The Tsholofelo volunteers know the young people who will be attending the camps and are aware of the challenges these children face in their daily lives. The existing relationship that the Tsholofelo volunteers have with the young people is invaluable for the effective running of this project.
This partnership has been a learning opportunity for all members of the FOA team. We have learned so much from the Tsholofelo volunteers, from knowing what workshops topics would be most beneficial to this group of young people, to new fun games and different ways to encourage participation in the programme. Not only have we gained knowledge and experience during the GSP, but we have also gained amazing friendships with the Tsholofelo volunteers and made memories which we will all share.
Senate, one of the dedicated Tsholofelo volunteers, shared her appreciation for the spirit of solidarity that has developed between the Tsholofelo team and the FOA volunteers from Ireland. She explained that the arrival of FOA members brings a surge of energy and enthusiasm to the camp, with new faces inspiring everyone to put forth their best efforts and creating a new energy among the group. In addition, the introduction of new games and activities by the FOA team has added a fresh dimension to the camp, encouraging engagement for all involved.
This collaboration between Friends of Africa and the Tsholofelo Community has shown the power of partnership, shared purpose, and cultural exchange. Together, we created a safe and inspiring space for young people. As the Global Solidarity Project 2025 comes to a close, we leave with valuable experiences, stronger connections, and a renewed commitment to youth development.
- Caoimhe Mullan and Ella Miller
