BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA (INTERN)
MBABANE– Young people in Eswatini have been encouraged to recognise their potential and actively contribute to national development ahead of the upcoming National Youth Symposium 2026 scheduled for March 21.
The symposium, organised by the CMF Community and hosted by Cebolenkosi Mtsetfwa, will take place at Sibane Hotel under the theme “Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today.” Mtsetfwa said the event was inspired by the need to create a platform where young people can engage in meaningful discussions, access mentorship and realise their role in shaping the country’s future.
“The future of Eswatini is already sitting in our classrooms, our communities and our streets. Yet too many young people feel unheard or uncertain about their place in the national story,” he said. He explained that the symposium aims to empower young people with knowledge, networks and confidence so they can see themselves not as spectators of change but as active participants in building the nation.
According to Mtsetfwa, leadership among young people must begin with strong personal values rather than titles or positions. He highlighted vision, integrity and service as key qualities that young people should cultivate to become effective leaders. “Leadership begins in character, discipline and the daily decisions we make long before anyone is watching,” he said.
Mtsetfwa further noted that the symposium will bring together entrepreneurs, advocates and influencers to provide diverse perspectives on leadership and opportunity. He said this diversity is important because it allows young people to understand that leadership can take many forms, including building businesses, advocating for social change and inspiring communities through communication. “Building a better future requires collaboration across many fields of influence,” he said.
He also pointed out that one of the major challenges facing young people is not only the lack of opportunities but also limited access to information, mentorship and professional networks. Mtsetfwa said platforms such as the National Youth Symposium help bridge this gap by allowing young people to interact with experienced individuals and gain practical insights on creating opportunities. “When young people meet mentors and like-minded peers, they begin forming networks that can lead to partnerships, projects and new initiatives,” he said. He added that the long-term vision of the CMF Community is to nurture a generation of ethical, innovative and responsible leaders committed to the development of Eswatini.
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(Courtesy Pic)
