As South Africa commemorates Youth Month, Tlotlang Mathabi, a final-year Bachelor of Science student in Computer Science and Mathematics at the University of Venda (UNIVEN), reflects on the significance of this moment and the powerful role of young people in shaping the country’s future.
For Mathabi, Youth Month is more than just a historical reminder—it is a call to purpose. “The courage and determination of the youth who stood against apartheid in 1976 have profoundly impacted my life and educational journey,” he says. Their bravery laid the foundation for the opportunities he enjoys today, including access to quality education and support structures that empower students like him to thrive.
Mathabi sees today’s youth as active drivers of change—leading economic growth through entrepreneurship, spearheading community development, and promoting social justice. “Youth Month reminds me of my purpose,” he shares, emphasising his commitment to becoming a qualified data scientist and using his voice to represent the voiceless.
He credits the University of Venda for playing a pivotal role in his personal and professional development. Through participation in the Student Representative Council, Mathabi honed his leadership abilities and embraced student activism. The university’s initiative to employ final-year students offered him invaluable work experience and insight into the professional world. “The university’s motto, Creating Future Leaders, truly resonates with me,” he adds.
As part of his Youth Month reflection, Mathabi underscores the importance of perseverance, patience, and faith. Quoting Isaiah 60:22—“When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen”—he encourages fellow students to trust in their individual journeys. He plans to honour the legacy of June 16 by watching Sarafina and reading about the 1976 student uprisings.
His message to his peers is clear: stay focused, pursue your goals with determination, and trust that your moment will come. By embracing resilience and unity, Mathabi believes today’s youth can overcome challenges and drive transformative change. He also highlights the critical role of innovation and entrepreneurship in creating new opportunities and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
