Bridging Generations: WFWP South Africa Celebrates Youth Day and WFWP 34th Anniversary

By: Florida Yadao Ledwaba

On 14 June 2026, the Women's Federation for World Peace (WFWP) South Africa hosted an inspiring Intergenerational Youth Day and WFWP 34th Anniversary Celebration at Forest Town, Johannesburg. Under the theme, "Bridging Generations: Empowering Youth, Honoring Women, Building Peace Together," the event brought together 40 participants, including youth, women leaders, parents, and community members.

The program was facilitated by Ms. Jina Kuse and Mrs. Hayong Wonderlik Leballo. Following registration and welcome music, the event officially commenced with an opening prayer offered by Mrs. Judith Cisangani. Mrs. Hayong Wonderlik Leballo welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of creating spaces where different generations can learn from and support one another.

Mrs. Flory Ledwaba presented an overview of WFWP, sharing the organization's history, vision, and contributions to peacebuilding and a video of WFWP South Africa Activites over the years. This was followed by a meaningful Youth Day Reflection by Ms. Mpho Mothapo, who encouraged young people to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom while embracing their role as leaders of today and tomorrow.

A highlight of the program was the Intergenerational Dialogue, facilitated by Mrs. Hayong Wonderlik Leballo under the theme, "What Can We Learn from Each Other?" The panel brought together youth representatives Ms. Laurine Kandolo and Ms. Nomathemba Kunene, alongside distinguished women leaders Dr. Debbie Raphuti, Mrs. Noella Ndonga, and Mrs. Nosipho Mositoane. Through engaging discussion, participants explored the value of mutual respect, mentorship, and collaboration between generations. The dialogue emphasized that both youth and elders possess unique strengths and perspectives essential for building stronger families and communities.

The event also featured a moving Intergenerational Bridge of Peace Ceremony facilitated by Mrs. Nosipho Mositoane and Mrs. Flory Ledwaba. Four pairs of representatives from different generations participated in this symbolic ceremony, crossing a bridge together as a commitment to understanding, cooperation, and peace. The ceremony concluded with a collective Peace Pledge, reaffirming participants' dedication to strengthening relationships across generations and working together for a more peaceful society.

The WFWP 34th Anniversary Celebration began with an anniversary message delivered by Mrs. Sethu Kuti, who reflected on the founding vision of WFWP and the vital role women continue to play in fostering peace within families, communities, and nations.

The keynote address, titled "Bridging Generations: Building Peace Together," was delivered by Dr. Debbie Raphuti, President of World Women Leading Change Africa. Dr. Raphuti inspired participants by emphasizing the importance of intergenerational cooperation, leadership development, and empowering young people to become agents of positive change.

A special moment during the celebration was the presentation of the Global Women Peace Ambassador Awards, recognizing outstanding women for their leadership, service, and contributions to peacebuilding and community development. The award ceremony highlighted the significant impact women continue to make in advancing peace and social transformation.

The celebration concluded with the cutting of the WFWP 34th Anniversary cake, symbolizing gratitude for the organization's achievements over the past three decades and renewed commitment to its mission of building a culture of peace. The Masters of Ceremony offered a vote of thanks to all speakers, guests, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of the event.

The program ended with refreshments and networking, providing an opportunity for participants to build new friendships and strengthen existing partnerships.The Intergenerational Youth Day and WFWP 34th Anniversary Celebration successfully created a meaningful platform for dialogue, reflection, recognition, and unity.