Empowering Africa’s Youth Through Purpose, Creativity, and Intentional Living

On Thursday, 1st May 2025, the vibrant township of Atteridgeville, South Africa, came alive with rhythm, colour, and youthful energy as the Intentional Youth Africa Initiative (TIYI Africa), in collaboration with the Pheli Youth Conference Forum, hosted the maiden edition of the TIYI-FEST 2025 — a community talent show that transcended entertainment and became a movement for transformation.

Far beyond a competition, TIYI-FEST 2025 was a celebration of purpose, vision, and unity. It was designed to inspire young people to express themselves, believe in their potential, and build a sense of community through art, creativity, and collaboration.

“This event is a platform for youth to see themselves differently and realize that their voices and talents truly matter,”
— Dr. Catherine O. Egbe, Founder and President, Intentional Youth Africa Initiative.

Transforming Lives Through Art and Purpose

Atteridgeville, like many townships across South Africa, is a place of immense cultural richness but also one faced with challenges — from substance abuse and unemployment to limited opportunities for youth development. TIYI-FEST 2025 sought to bridge that gap by creating a structured, uplifting space where young people could find hope and direction through creativity.

The event showcased how art can be a channel for healing, empowerment, and leadership. Through dance, poetry, and music, young participants told their stories, shared their struggles, and expressed their dreams for a better future. The entire day radiated energy, purpose, and intentionality — the core values upon which TIYI Africa was founded.

Collaboration at the Heart of TIYI-FEST

The success of TIYI-FEST 2025 was driven by powerful partnerships that put community first. Local youth organizations including Dipeu Tsa Tshwane, Passion Exposure, Rae Fhaire, and Dynamic Youth Crew collaborated with TIYI Africa and Pheli Youth Conference Forum to bring the event to life.

Strong institutional support also came from the Atteridgeville SAPS Social Crime Prevention Unit, under the leadership of Ms. Malete, who emphasized the importance of proactive community engagement to prevent social challenges among youth.

Every partner embraced TIYI Africa’s vision — creating a safe and vibrant platform for young people to explore their artistic talents, nurture their potential, and build a sense of self-worth.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The festival was graced by several dignitaries and professionals who came to support and encourage the participants.
Ms. Zanele Mthembu, public health and policy strategist, delivered a heartfelt keynote address that stirred the hearts of everyone present. She encouraged the youth to dream beyond limitations and build the South Africa they want to live in.

She shared the inspiring story of Siyabulela Xuza, a scientist and entrepreneur from Mthatha who, as a teenager, developed experimental rocket fuel, earned international recognition, and had an asteroid named after him by NASA. His story served as a powerful reminder that with intention, focus, and belief, anything is possible.

Showcasing Talent: Music, Dance, and Poetry

The highlight of the day was the creative competition, which featured three major categories — Music, Dance, and Poetry.
The goal was not merely to compete but to express, to connect, and to grow. Each participant performed with passion and authenticity, making it difficult for judges to choose winners.

Music Category Winners

• 🥇 1st Place: Rae Fhaire – A young hip hop and RnB talent whose confidence and artistry stood out.
• 🥈 2nd Place: Tiego – Showed remarkable growth and lyrical skill.
• 🥉 3rd Place: Dipeu Tsa Tshwane Group – Commended for their unity and stage presence.

Poetry Category Winners

• 🥇 1st Place: Prince – Delivered a powerful traditional African-style poem accompanied by live drumming.
• 🥈 2nd Place: Oratile (Dipeu Tsa Tshwane) – Captured the audience with deep emotion and reflective storytelling.
• 🥉 3rd Place: Andile (Dipeu Tsa Tshwane) – Won hearts with captivating expression and stage command.

Dance Category Winners

• 🥇 1st Place: Passion Exposure’s Tiego and the Boys – Brought the crowd to its feet with an electrifying routine.
• 🥈 2nd Place: Dipeu Tsa Tshwane Dance Group – Impressed with creativity, unity, and precision.
• 🥉 3rd Place: Rae Fhaire Group – Showcased vibrant choreography and youthful innovation.

Celebrating Intentional Living

While trophies and medals were awarded to top performers, every participant was celebrated. Each young artist was acknowledged as a symbol of hope and resilience.

Prof. Catherine O. Egbe, the Founder and President of the Intentional Youth Africa Initiative, delivered a powerful closing message:

“This event is not about winners and losers; it’s about planting seeds of discipline, vision, and self-belief.”

The timing of the event added a special layer of significance, as it coincided with Prof. Egbe’s birthday. The youth, in a touching moment, sang and presented her with a token of appreciation — recognizing her dedication, mentorship, and vision for empowering Africa’s youth.

Building Sustainable Impact

TIYI-FEST 2025 was more than a one-day celebration — it marked the beginning of a long-term mission to create safe, productive spaces for young people to thrive.

Through partnerships with NGOs, schools, law enforcement, and private organizations, TIYI Africa continues to expand its youth programs in leadership development, mental health awareness, education, and entrepreneurship.