Communities come together against alcohol abuse

Underage drinking was the subject of conversation in Blood River, Limpopo. SAB’s You Decide programme runs regular community workshops around South Africa, both at schools and in community centres, to educate and empower against underage drinking. The focus of the workshops is to ensure that members of the community understand the key role they can play in curbing underage drinking.

At least 250 adults including parents and other community members from Blood River attended the You Decide Community Workshop. The event was facilitated by South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) counsellors, who helped educate the audience on how to address alcohol related issues within their homes, communities and at schools.

In curbing underage drinking, the community can play a positive, supporting role. Teenagers who are supported by informed teachers, parents, community members and their peers are more likely to be able to make more positive choices in their lives, not only around abstaining from alcohol, but also contributing positively to the betterment of others in their community.

The audience was also entertained by MC Skhumbuzo Mbatha of Skeem Sam and Thobela FM fame, DJ Cappuccino from Capricorn FM and a performance by kwaito house duo Sido and Manana.

These workshops are part of a bigger sustainable development initiative from SAB, called SAB Prosper, which aims to empower local communities for long-term prosperity. You Decide is a strategic partnership between SAB, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, SAPS and each provincial Department of Education.

Have you attended one of these workshops? Let us know what you thought of it in the comments section below.