Ntsako Mashaba: Rising Boldly for Youth Health and Gender Equality

I am currently working within the Department of Health through the Mkhuhlu Clinic, under the Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS) unit a powerful initiative committed to offering safe, inclusive, and youth-centered healthcare to young people in our community.

I proudly serve as a Feminist Leadership Activist Centre (FLAC) Fellow through the Soul City Institute for Social Justice. Through this fellowship, I am championing community-based activism to challenge patriarchal norms and dismantle gender-based inequalities. My tools? Leadership, education, and unwavering advocacy.

Groundwork at Mkhuhlu Clinic

At Mkhuhlu Clinic, my role involves working closely with adolescents and young people. I lead youth and peer education sessions, run advocacy campaigns focused on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and the empowerment of young women.

More than anything, I strive to create safe, supportive spaces for every young woman spaces where sisterhood thrives, where healing begins, and where support is always within reach.

One Week In, A Lifetime of Change

Though I’ve only been in this role for a week, the experience has already transformed me.
It’s pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helping me grow both personally and professionally. I’m proud to be contributing to a movement that uplifts youth and stands firmly for health rights and equality.

A Message to Every Young Person

“I want you to know the truth don’t be afraid to speak out.
Never let your background define your future.
You are not a victim of society. You are a conqueror.
You are fearless. Be bold, rise strongly, and tell yourself:
The future I deserve is coming.
You’ve got this. You can do better than yesterday.”

by Ntsako Mashaba, FLAC Fellow 2024/2026 and Youth Health Advocate