Storytelling can change a young person’s life

The world teenagers are navigating often looks nothing like the one their parents grew up in. Youth leaders who walk closely with teenagers every week see this shift clearly and believe parents need to understand the realities shaping teenage relationships today.

On 29 October 2025, Heartlines, in partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand School of Governance hosted the Rethinking Fatherhood, Gender, and Masculinity in South Africa symposium.

Co-parenting through exam season isn't always  easy, but it can work if both parents are committed to supporting their child. 

In every South African home there is a story that whispers across generations. A story of women who’ve had to endure and show their resilience even when they were weary to the bone.

South Africa’s youth are resilient, vibrant and full of potential. But beneath that resilient spirit lies a generation grappling with silent struggles. We asked some young people how they still show kindness and empathy towards others and themselves. 

It’s very important to check in on others, but what happens when their answer doesn’t match their reality? Leadership is learning to read between the lines and moving into tough conversations, shared Tshepo Sithole at a recent youth leadership training.