South African youth are urging adults to listen actively and empathetically, as revealed in a national creative competition where over 1,100 participants highlighted mental health crises, digital anxiety, and the need for genuine respect, reports Cape {town}Etc.
The competitions provided a platform for children and teenagers to express their realities without filters. Their submissions emphasised that mental health challenges are widespread and urgent, with many participants sharing feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.
“Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning, what if I’m not good enough?” One 15 year-old shared.
Another 18 year-old stated: “I wish you’d see me beyond the grades, beyond the expectations. See the real me, with all my imperfections and flaws.”
“We are not just moody. We’re struggling,” a 14 year-old highlighted.
The initiative aims to ensure that these voices directly inform policy and programmatic responses under the NSAAC, which prioritises child protection, mental health support, and community-driven care.
Key themes via youth submissions:
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Mental health urgency: Depression, anxiety, and trauma featured prominently, with many teens stating it was the first time they had been asked about their needs.
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Respect and listening: Young people expressed frustration at being dismissed, compared to others, or interrupted when speaking.
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Identity and belonging: Many teens described the fear of rejection while exploring their identities.
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Digital pressures: Social media was cited as a source of anxiety, bullying, and constant comparison.
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Safety and love: Participants highlighted the impact of violence and harsh environments, noting that small acts of care make a significant difference.
Dr. Katlego Selikane, Lead for Keready (a component of Hold My Hand focused on teens), emphasised that meaningful change requires ‘really listening’ to young people.
The NSAAC advocates a whole-of-society approach, engaging government, civil society, businesses, and communities to address ten national priorities, including mental health support and protection from abuse. Hold My Hand and its partners are integrating these insights into policy discussions, school programs, and community training initiatives.
Lebo Motshegoa, who is the Content Lead for Hold My Hand, stated that the conversation is only beginning. The campaign will use the competition outcomes to advocate for safe creative spaces in schools, trauma-informed training for adults, and actionable steps to reduce violence and substance abuse in communities. The philosophy driving these efforts is that ‘every child is my child,’ underscoring collective responsibility.
The Hear Me Out and Keready to Ringa competitions have amplified the voices of South African youth at a critical time, revealing urgent needs for mental health support, digital safety, and empathetic listening
As the Hold My Hand campaign transitions from listening to action, the insights gathered will play a vital role in shaping policies and programmes that prioritise the well-being and potential of every child.
First published by Cape {town} etc
Compiled by Lulama Klassen
