An amazing race experience gave Ireta Mbamu the courage to speak to a homeless person and learn the joy of helping another person.
Ms Mbamu, from Kensington, who transitioned from a children's home to a path of independence, said that there should be more organisations like Mamelani, a non-government organisation (NGO).
The organisation hosted its annual Amazing Race experience on Saturday, April 18.
The adventure started at Ysterplaat Community Church, where the youth used an e-hailing taxi to get to The Cape Wheel, at the V&A Waterfront, where they were due to find further clues and eventually end up at the Castle of Good Hope.
Ms Mbamu, who is now a volunteer at the event, said that she connected with Mamelani when she was 17-years-old and had to move from the home onto her own.
"I used to be so shy," she said.
"My first 'Amazing Race' with Mamelani, I didn’t know people, I couldn’t work with people," she said.
Today, Ms Mbamu thrives on teamwork, learning to confidently approach strangers, even sharing her lunch with those sleeping outside - a simple act of human connection that taught her the value of gratitude and recognition.
The organisation links youth to facilitators who help them navigate the challenges of life, from continuing their education, finding employment, accommodation, and having their basic needs met.
They also host events and programmes for the youth to tap into and develop their skills to manage life. During Ms Mbamu's first race, her team had to strike up a conversation with a stranger and share a meal with them.
Fast forward six years, and Ms Mbamu said that she recently was able to speak to a woman at the train station, who looked down and out.
“The woman said to me, ‘You don’t know how much this means to me. Many people just ignore us, see us as a burden. You are also a person,’” she said, reflecting on her experience.
Ms Mbamu said that this dynamic, skills-building event was more than a race.
"It is a critical component of the holistic support Mamelani offers to help vulnerable youth achieve stable, fulfilling lives," she said.
The race challenges participants to navigate the city, complete practical tasks, and overcome various obstacles, all while honing essential real-life skills.
They had a big group of volunteers helping on the day, serving as clue masters, photographers, or safety officers.
Participant Devedene Bester, from Brooklyn, said being part of Mamelani helped her to explore and learn.
"It makes you grow mentally and emotionally," she said.
Mamelani programme manager Charlene Hill said they strengthened transitional support practices within the alternative care sector, amplifying the voices of young people with care experience, and actively engage in advocacy, research, and capacity building.
"The organisation plays a crucial role in providing transitional support during what is often a precarious period," she said.
Ms Hill said that without adequate assistance, young people moving out of care were at heightened risk of homelessness, substance abuse, and other vulnerabilities.
"The organisation works to build community and foster a sense of belonging while laying pathways into education and employment through mentoring, coaching, and practical support," she said.
She said that the event would also serve as a vital gathering, bringing together programme alumni, government representatives, and key stakeholders.
Ms Hill said their presence highlighted the collaborative ecosystem required to support these young people, showcasing a shared commitment to youth well-being and independence.
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