Conflict resolution & great progress in Ikemeleng

The scorching heat could not deter the Ikemeleng community from coming to the stadium to witness the football knockout tournament organised by the youth.I discovered that these activities mean a lot to all age groups to this entertainment starved settlement. Indeed, it was worth it, as there was a lot of talent and thrilling football skills that were being showcased. My big wish is to see scouts from professional leagues in and around the country gracing such events in these despised places and explore these raw gems, I am convinced they will never regret it.

As the games progressed, obviously the boys were then being seperated from the men. Apparently, one of the teams Hotspur who had just been knocked out, were indulged in a fierce conflict among themselves!! A lot of accusations and counter-accusations were flying around as to what had led to their defeat and being leveled against each other!!! As we listened to this discord for a couple of moments, it took the eventual intervention of Doc to calm the storm. After giving them time to unleash all they had and listening carefully, he (Doc) spoke and urged them to have unity of purpose, teamwork, avoid blaming each other and accepting responsibility for a team to succeed. Thereafter the voice of reason had got to their ears and there was truce. After embracing each other, they sat down to plan ahead together which was quite refreshing.

Moments after, we joined the ladies football team and presented to them a lovely surprise which was a sleek red Puma 'Glencore branded' kit. There was great joy and optimism. As the boys teams jealously followed proceedings, Doc challenged them (boys) again to prove that they have learnt from their mistakes and that they have put aside their differences for progress sake, they could also receive something similar. I could see the regret and determination to make things right. We conducted several life-skills with the girls and I was amazed to see their high level of intelligence and aspirations. It's important to note that so far, they have proved to be the fastest on the number grids life-skills. I was really impressed!! There were also great IT lessons that were conducted by Doc and I was also happy to hear most of the young girls asking about the possibilities of getting bursaries in the event of them passing their Matric, of which Doc acknowledged. They were told to continue with good behavior and avoid teenage pregnancies and stay focused.

To sign off the day, little did we know that the chicken we saw being slaughtered earlier on was meant for us! We thoroughly enjoyed the meal as we discussed with one of the youth leaders Fanuel, who revealed that one of the major causes of their day to day misunderstandings that sometimes affects unity, is the mixture of several tribes in the community, who have very different ways of doing things and understanding. By the time we finished the sumptuous meal, it was the emotional time to bid farewell to this lovely community!! What a worthwhile experience we had!!

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