Madam Deputy Speaker, this debate honours the youth of 1976 who, when faced with the brutality of a government that did not care about them, rose up and made themselves heard. As a young South African, I am always inspired by the example they set - of bravery, determination, hope for a better future, and literally changing the course of history.
South Africa today is a much more just and humane society, but millions of our young South Africans feel that they still live under a government that has turned its back on them. Nearly four decades ago a generation of youth rose up, and acted, and began a movement that would eventually topple a government. And the same will happen again if this government continues to turn its gaze from the many ordinary people who are the face of unemployment in South Africa.
They are people like Christina Mosito, whose story I read this week and it touched my heart. Christina Mosito is 22 years old and lives in a backyard room in Diepsloot Extension 2 with her mother. Although she has a diploma in travel and tourism from an FET college, she has been unable to graduate because she requires in-service training. Many of her former classmates are in exactly the same position. "Most of the jobs I see want experience," says Ms Mosito. "I have applied at Unisa, and other colleges, to further my studies. I would love to do a diploma in tourism, and I hope it will increase my chances of getting employed." In the meantime, though, she is looking for temporary employment, anything to help her pay for her studies, and to get some experience. "I'm up for anything," she says, "even restaurant work. I want to do something, because sitting at home is not doing anything for me."
Hon members, take a good look at these photos. Here is Donovan Abrahams, 27 years old and unemployed. Then there are Arnold Ndlovu, 30 years old and unemployed; Bongani Mondlane, 27 years old and unemployed; Aubrey Jantjies, 21 years old and unemployed; and Mjabulisi Jili, 21 years old and unemployed. [Interjections.] You have a job, hon member - do not laugh at them! There are also Andr Gates, 23 and unemployed, and Sharmima Vala, 30 years old and unemployed. [Interjections.] This is the face of unemployment! [Interjections.]