YeBo Academy Class of 2024 Graduation
The Old Granary Building, home to the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, was filled with YeBo magic last night as the YeBo Academy Class of 2024 celebrated their graduation in a memorable and heartfelt ceremony. The historic venue, with its rich legacy of service and leadership, provided the perfect backdrop for the event, where a new generation of mentors was officially welcomed into the fold.
In a moving evening filled with personal reflections and powerful messages, the graduates, who started their journeys as YeBoneers, were recognised not only for their dedication to learning but also for their readiness to step into the role of mentors for future cohorts.
The keynote address, delivered by Guy Redman, Head of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, inspired the room with a call to action, encouraging the graduates to continue using their skills to uplift others and strengthen their communities. HOD, reminded YeBoneers of the well-known quote from the late Archbishop, “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” He reminded all in attendance, “…it’s not always the grand gestures, but the small consistent acts of kindness, guidance, and support that will create lasting change in the lives of others. The ripple effect of these small actions will extend far beyond what you may see.”
As the certificates were handed over, each graduate received affirmations not only for their achievements but for the impact they will make as mentors. The moment was a testament to the Academy’s commitment to developing leaders who understand that their success is intertwined with the success of their communities.
The evening closed with a special song, Se die mense, written by the Class of 2024 to pay homage to the profound impact of YeBo on the lives of youth, beneficiaries, and their communities. The song filled the room with a deep sense of unity and purpose. With this powerful moment, the YeBo Academy graduates of 2024 are now ready to carry forward the legacy of mentorship, stepping confidently into roles that will shape the futures of the next generation.