Step Up Let’s Lead, launched in Sandton, Joburg on 27 August, aims to empower South African youth and start them on the path to success. According to its Facebook page, it is “a leadership development movement that uses cinemas nationally, is driven by the vision to ignite inner greatness and confidence in young people, thus empowering them to be drivers of positive change in schools, communities and at society at large”.
Step Up Let’s Lead aims to reward young people who let their greatness shine by displaying exceptional leadership qualities in their schools and communities (Image: Liana Meadon)It is based on a 90-minute film, starring entrepreneur and comedian Mpho “Popps” Modikoane. In the film, there are seven characters from different backgrounds, all with distinct behaviours.
Aimed at pupils in grades 9 to 12, the characters are exposed to principles of leadership throughout the film. Ultimately, they discover that they all have the ability to be leaders and can transform their lives, and that they can help their communities by using their talents.
The film will be screened at 15 Ster-Kinekor cinemas across the country on 31 August, 7 and 14 September, and 12 and 19 October. To accompany the inspirational film, all pupils who see it will receive a booklet filled with valuable leadership lessons and information specifically aimed to compliment the messages in the film.
The booklet has been carefully developed to help pupils and teachers link the leadership concepts, ideas and activities to the curriculum. The film will also be available on DVD to reach additional pupils in rural areas.
But this initiative aims to go beyond the screening of a film. Young people who let their greatness shine by displaying exceptional leadership qualities in their schools and communities, will be rewarded. Schools are encouraged to nominate their pupils for the competition.
Finalists from each province will attend an awards ceremony in November, where the Step Up Let’s Lead 2013 National Youth Leader will be announced.
