#YouthMonth: Celebrating Local Youth Empowerment (Rebabaletsoe Dieke)


Story: Rebabaletsoe Dieke | Photo: Supplied

Walter Sisulu Local Municipality (WSLM) emphasizes the significance of Youth Month by highlighting the contributions and experiences of the local youth employed by the municipality.

Rebabaletsoe Dieke, Traffic Officer, shares his experience: 

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

A: I was born and raised in Aliwal North. I began my educational journey at Nchafatso Primary School and completed my schooling at Bishop Demond Secondary School. For tertiary studies, I enrolled at Ikhala College in Aliwal North, where I pursued courses in Business Management and Public Management. I was then fortunate to train as a Metro Police and Traffic Officer in the City of Cape Town. Additionally, I am actively involved in the football community in Maletswai, serving as a member of the Maletswai Local Football Association and owning a youth soccer club known as Young Hearts FC.

Q: How did you first learn about the employment opportunities offered by the Walter Sisulu Local Municipality?

A: I learned about the employment opportunities from the WSLM notice board and website.

Q: How has working for the municipality contributed to your personal and professional growth?

A: Being involved in community activities, particularly sports, has made networking much easier for me, both internally and externally. Working for the WSLM municipality has been a pleasure, as I have participated in several training programs that have added significant value to my career and growth potential.

Q: What skills have you developed or improved upon since you started working with the municipality?

A: Since joining the municipality, I have developed and improved upon several skills, including leadership, management, teamwork, community engagement, and social skills.

Q: What does Youth Month and Youth Day (June 16) mean to you personally?

A: To me, Youth Month and Youth Day are times to celebrate the young people who once united to fight the injustices in our country. It reminds us, the current generation, of how privileged we are to live in freedom and to always remember and commemorate their sacrifices. It also serves as a reminder that the future of our nation is in our hands.

Q: How do you feel your work has impacted the community within the Walter Sisulu Local Municipality?

A: My work primarily involves public safety and maintaining order in the community. I believe my presence and involvement as a law enforcer have made a significant impact, especially in Burgersdorp town, where we have addressed many complaints effectively.

Q: What advice would you give to other young people in the community who are seeking employment or development opportunities, especially during Youth Month?

A: I would advise organising workshops and mentorship programs where young people can engage in addressing unemployment. These programs should cover a wide range of topics, such as interview skills, financial literacy, and professional etiquette.

Q: Any other comments?

A: It is an honour to be employed by the municipality where I was born. I am looking forward to contributing positively in many ways and helping the municipality improve its services to residents.