Nemato Change a Life member in UN programme
| COMMITMENT: Athenkosi Hlekani was recently invited by the United Nation Office for Sport for Development and Peace, to participate in a ten days Youth Leadership Camp in Doha, Qatar Picture: SUPPLIED |
A YOUNG member of Nemato Change a Life (NCAL) was recently invited by the United Nations office for Sport Development and Peace recently to participate in its leadership programme in Dohar, Qatar, located on the Persian Gulf.
Athenkosi (Athi) Hlekani was the only African invited to participate in the 10-day youth leadership camp, which ran from January 14 to 25. The Camp brings together youth aged 18-25 in order to teach them the best practices in using sport as a tool for positive change in their communities. The 29 youth attending returned to their home countries with a clear vision of how they can make improvements in their community by harnessing the power of sport.
Each day had a theme that was explored through theory and small activities in the morning, and sport in the afternoon. The programme looked specifically at developing manners and value systems as well as coaching techniques.
On his return Hlekani shared his know-how with his fellow NCAL members who were fascinated by his overseas trip and his experience of new cultures.
This was the first time Hlekani had been overseas and said the camp was incredible.
"I left there with a wealth of knowledge and experience that I will most definitely use and share now and in the near future. Friends made and networks formed have also made the camp that much more special. I thank all who were involved in helping me get there, truly a life highlight,” said Hlekani.
NCAL founder, Jan Blom said he was very pleased and proud that Hlekani had been selected.
"The trip was organised through our association with GIZ (German Academy for International Cooperation) who proposed Athi as a candidate for their programme due to his outstanding CV,” explained Blom.
"His leadership as the rowing club captain both at Nemato and at University of Johannesburg (from whom he received a full bursary), the fact he was the youngest and first black member of the Eastern Cape Rowing Association and many more important accolades made him an outstanding candidate.
"Athi left Qatar with a wealth of knowledge, a great international network and a life highlight never be to forgotten,” said Blom.
"We are proud that Athi got rewarded for his commitment to the aim of our organization. We also see it as recognition of the quality of our programme.”
