Youth Day: SA celebrities share messages to the youth
As South Africa commemorates the Soweto uprisings of 1976, Mila Guy, Paxton Fielies, and Pascal Pienaar speak of the confidence they have in the country’s young people.
Youth Day is one of the most important days in South Africa.
16 June 1976 saw the youth come together in the Soweto uprising - a series of demonstrations and protests led by black school children in South Africa.
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The youth fought against inequality and oppression caused by the apartheid regime.
To commemorate Youth Day, a few of our South African stars; Mila Guy, Paxton Fielies, and Pascal Pienaar share their Youth Day message
Mila Guy
Many South Africans will recognise Mila Guy from her role in the comedy series ‘Die Hotel’ on kykNET. Guy is passionate about the youth and the future of our county. Her biggest wish for South Africa is that everyone would accept each other’s cultures and religions.
“We as young people have a voice and we can change the future of our country with this voice.”
The actress believes that young people can make South Africa the best country in the world with love and tolerance.
Paxton Fielies
Paxton is the youngest 'South African Idols' winner and since her win, she has made it big in the music industry.
For Fielies, Youth Day is a reminder that age is no indication of the ability to create change.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams – meaning that everyone can be dreamers, but it is up to you to make your dream become a reality.”
Her biggest wish for South Africa is for everyone to stand together in unity and evolve as one for the better of the country.
Her song, ‘Last One Standing’, is the one song that she would like to dedicate to the youth of South Africa. The message behind the song is to always stand up and try again when life knocks you down.
Pascal Pienaar
Pascal Pienaar, better known as Karli du Preez in the kykNET soap 'Binnelanders', is a young and vibrant actress who inspires so many young women.
“Youth Day is dedicated to the youth – where we celebrate the future of our youth.”
Pienaar’s wish is for a better South Africa where everyone feels safe in schools and are treated with respect.
‘Zulu On My Stoep’ is the one movie she would like to dedicate to the youth of South Africa. “The movie is a true reflection of South Africa – we must not focus on the colour of someone’s skin. We must just embrace each other for who we are.”