Soweto Hosts the Launch of 10 000 Champions: A Bold Youth Empowerment Movement Begins
During Youth Month, Soweto became the proud host of the inaugural 10 000 Champions launch, a bold new national movement focused on empowering young people to become purpose-driven, digitally-skilled, and economically active leaders by 2030. The movement aims to train its first 100 champions over the next six months, igniting a ripple effect of transformation across South Africa.
A New Generation Rising
Symbolically launched in Soweto — a historic site of youth-led revolutions — the event gathered passionate young people, community leaders, facilitators, and supporters for a day of high-energy activities focused on mindset development, goal setting, and unlocking personal power.
The day opened with community partner Jeff Mamogale reflecting on the contributions of Struggle Stalwart Joe Gqabi and the significance of the Integrated Development Centre in nurturing today’s changemakers. Guest speaker and author Nomvuyo Bengane delivered an inspiring video message, sharing her personal journey, insights from her latest book, and her unwavering support for youth development.
Among the most powerful moments of the day was the Board Breaking Exercise, facilitated by project founder and lead coach KK Diaz. In this symbolic and physical activity, participants smashed through wooden boards representing their personal fears and limiting beliefs. The energy in the room soared as each young person broke through their barriers, both literally and figuratively.
The Roadmap Ahead
The event concluded with a strategic session titled Where To From Here, which outlined the next six months of the programme’s Proof of Concept phase. Participants will receive structured training in:
- Purpose Discovery
- Mindset Mastery
- Digital & Business Skills
- Leadership & Community Building
- Job Creation
This phase will serve as a foundation for scaling the initiative nationwide, with the goal of reaching 10 000 champions by 2030.
Gratitude and Growing Momentum
Organisers expressed heartfelt thanks to the Founding Champions, facilitators, volunteers, community leaders, and venue partners who contributed to the day’s success.
“We believe young people shouldn’t have to wait any longer for change — they are the change. This programme doesn’t hand out promises. It equips people to become the help their communities have been waiting for.”
said KK Diaz, founder of the initiative and CEO of A-Game Business
With its successful launch, 10 000 Champions is now calling on businesses, funders, youth organisations, and government bodies to support the scaling of this movement throughout South Africa and the continent at large.
This is more than a project — it’s a transformative movement investing in Africa’s next generation of leaders.
Learn more at: www.10000champions.co.za
