After joining the Nelson Mandela Bay YMCA as a Public Relations intern for the experiential learning section of her diploma studies, Fion opted to continue volunteering at the youth-oriented nonprofit organisation in Parkside, Gelvandale, as she wanted to make an impact in the lives of others.
Through her volunteering, she was selected as one of the South African delegates participating in Y-Glocal, a triangular partnership between Denmark YMCA, Cameroon YMCA, and South Africa YMCA, seeking youth-led solutions to societal issues.
With the slogan “Global Challenges, Local Actions” the Y-Glocal Training Camp is aimed at strengthening young people as volunteers and empowering them with the power of action to create change with global importance.
“The whole experience has left me quite excited about what’s to come and has motivated an urge for self-development within me. The coming months will see my team and I, with the assistance from our local YMCAs, to try and implement small projects focused on working towards achieving our respective chosen sustainable development goals,” Fion says.
“The brief time I spent in Cameroon was truly eye opening. I enjoyed being introduced to new concepts, learning how other countries navigate the various societal issues plaguing communities, and being able to form new friendships with other young people determined to make an impact.”
The South African YMCA delegates with the Cameroon YMCA President Alain Douglas Wandji in Kribi, Cameroon. From left, Fion Mfenqa, Nthabiseng Mabula, Khumo Lepota, Phumelele Hadebe, Lebohang Lakaje and Nosipho Gumede.