Nemato Change a Life is helping young people leap into life through sport, education and a winning mindset.
Port Alfred, South Africa (06 August 2025) – A vibrant movement is changing young lives for the better in the heart of Nelson Mandela Township. Nemato Change a Life is not just a youth programme; it is a life journey. Designed as a “cradle to career” initiative, it takes young people by the hand, guiding them from childhood to adulthood with one clear mission: to help them not only dream of success but actually achieve it.
The secret to Nemato’s success is simple but also very powerful: empowering youth by youth. Through mentorship, skills development, and personalised guidance, each member is encouraged to be nice, be a hard worker, be a changemaker, be fit, be educated, and be skilled. It is a holistic approach that builds character and confidence while preparing young people to thrive in education, careers, and life.
Sport plays a big role in their journey too, and not just any sport! Nemato Change a Life brings rowing, tumbling and trampoline gymnastics, handball, and fencing to the township, opening doors to opportunities many young people never imagined. From local competitions to national championships and even the international stage the programme has produced athletes who proudly represent their community while learning discipline and teamwork.
But the real victories go beyond medals. As the team embodies the idea that their programme is only successful when their members win in life! With the support of initiatives like the Matinyana Bursary Fund, based in the Netherlands, students receive financial assistance and personal guidance to pursue their studies and careers, ensuring that talent and determination never go to waste.
At its heart, Nemato Change a Life is about changing mindsets, transforming a generation of young people from being problem-focused to being problem-free, fully prepared, and fully engaged youth, as inspired by the UNICEF empowerment model. Or in simpler terms, young leaders who are ready to shape their world.
From the rowing waters to the trampoline mats, from classrooms to careers, Nemato Change a Life is proof that with the right support, youth can rise, thrive, and change the game not just for themselves, but for their entire community.
Sources: Facebook
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