NGWENYA– Motivational speaker, poet and entrepreneur Khetsa Simelane is set to lead a transformative youth empowerment initiative, the Campfire Experience, on 18 July 2026 in Ngwenya, bringing together motivational speakers, educators and facilitators committed to equipping young people with practical life skills and a renewed sense of purpose.
Hosted in partnership with Gedlembane, the event is designed to encourage young people to rise above life’s challenges by focusing on personal growth, education, entrepreneurship and mental wellness.
Simelane said the Campfire Experience is not intended to promise instant solutions to issues such as unemployment, poverty or limited opportunities, but rather to inspire a generation that is determined to succeed despite the obstacles they face.
“We understand that many of the challenges affecting young people are deeply rooted in systems that cannot be changed overnight. These are not only Eswatini’s challenges but are shared by many countries around the world. Our focus is to help young people develop the mindset to create opportunities instead of waiting for circumstances to change,” he said.
The programme will feature a variety of inspirational talks and interactive sessions aimed at helping participants identify their strengths, build resilience and develop practical strategies for achieving their goals.
Among the guest facilitators is Dr Ngoma Febian from Zambia, who will lead sessions on academic development and career guidance. His presentations are expected to provide learners and young professionals with valuable advice on making informed educational and career decisions while preparing for future opportunities.
Mental health will also form a key part of the programme. Facilitators will address depression, emotional wellbeing, suicide prevention and substance abuse, encouraging participants to seek support and build healthier coping mechanisms.
Entrepreneurship will be another major focus, with discussions exploring how young people can identify business opportunities, participate in the marketplace and create sustainable sources of income. Simelane, who owns several small businesses including a salon, believes entrepreneurship can become a practical solution for many young people seeking financial independence.
Adding a creative dimension to the event, the Campfire Experience will also host talent showcases, giving aspiring performers and creatives an opportunity to display their abilities. Participants will receive guidance on how to nurture their talents and transform them into meaningful careers or income-generating opportunities.
To reinforce its message, the event will include structured group activities, mindset exercises and interactive games designed to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving and solution-oriented leadership.
According to Simelane, the vision behind the Campfire Experience is to build a community of young people who choose to focus on possibilities rather than limitations.
“We believe everything we see today started as someone’s idea. We want to help young people position their minds towards creating solutions and becoming the generation that transforms communities through innovation, resilience and purpose,” he said.
Through its blend of inspiration, mentorship and practical learning, the Campfire Experience aims to leave participants empowered to take ownership of their futures and become positive agents of change within their communities.
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