As a young person who once faced barriers in accessing sexual and reproductive health services, I understand the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental space for young people to seek information and support. It is crucial that we break down the stigma and barriers that prevent young people from accessing the services they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
Through my work with Shout-It-Now and SANAC, I am committed to advocating for youth-friendly services and policies that prioritize the needs of young people. By engaging with young professionals and community members, we can create a supportive environment where young people feel empowered to take control of their health and well-being.
It is time for a collective effort to address the challenges faced by young people in accessing sexual and reproductive health services. By working together, we can ensure that all young people have the information and support they need to make healthy choices and protect themselves from the risks of unintended pregnancies, HIV, and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Let’s continue to push for youth-friendly services, advocate for comprehensive sexual health education, and empower young people to take charge of their health. Together, we can create a future where all young people have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Thank you for reading and joining me in this important mission.
Veronicca Molefe
As a young person who has experienced firsthand the shortcomings of the public health sector, I am passionate about working with today’s youth to shape health services that serve the entire country and create healthy futures for all young people. It is crucial that we listen to the voices of young people and involve them in the decision-making process when it comes to healthcare policies and programs.
When I was 17 years old, I found myself navigating the complex and often inaccessible public health system in South Africa. I was in need of medical care, but I faced long waiting times, inadequate resources, and a lack of understanding from healthcare providers. It was a frustrating and disheartening experience that left me feeling neglected and overlooked.
Today, I am committed to ensuring that no young person has to go through what I went through. Together with the youth, we can work towards creating a healthcare system that is responsive to the needs of all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances. This means advocating for improved access to healthcare services, better education around sexual and reproductive health, and increased support for mental health issues.
One way to achieve this is by partnering with organizations like the South African National AIDS Council, which brings together government, civil society, and the private sector to address HIV, TB, and STIs in South Africa. By collaborating with these stakeholders, we can ensure that young people have access to the information and resources they need to stay healthy and make informed decisions about their health.
It is important to remember that young people are not just the future of our country – they are also the present. By involving them in the design and implementation of health services, we can create a more inclusive and effective healthcare system that serves the needs of all South Africans. Together with the youth, we can build a brighter and healthier future for our nation.
