Latest news with #OliverBouilliart
The Citizen
3 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Johannesburg Junior Council hosts inspiring Women's Day event at Holy Family College
The Johannesburg Junior Council (JJC) hosted a Women's Day empowerment conference at Holy Family College in Parktown on August 2. JJC members and members of the community gathered to honour the strength and stories of women at the event titled: The Power of Her Voice. Entry was R20, with all proceeds donated to the Chayil Foundation, an organisation that supports survivors of gender-based violence through safe housing, mentorship, and skills development. JJC member Lesedi Moletsane, from Roedean School, said the foundation was chosen for its work with women and girls affected by trauma. Its mission, she added, aligns with the JJC's goals for Women's month. Read more: Why did 9 August become #WomensDay? Oliver Bouilliart, co-mayor of the JJC and a learner at St John's College, said the council wanted to create a platform that acknowledged and amplified women's voices. 'Too often, women's voices are overlooked in society. In our council, we see their strength and leadership every day. This conference was a chance to celebrate that, and call for greater recognition.' The programme featured three guest speakers who shared their personal and professional journeys: Tebogo Magato, co-founder of a training organisation, spoke about digital inclusion, leadership, and youth empowerment across business, government, and academia, Karen Landi, co-founder of Community Hours, highlighted how her platform has grown from 750 volunteers to more than 10 000 young people contributing to community service. Her work in child advocacy and leadership was also shared, and Robin Le Roux, founder of the Trial Foundation, discussed the importance of resilience and healing. Her organisation has supported vulnerable communities since 2014 with food, clothing, mentorship, and rehabilitation programmes. After the presentations, a panel discussion was held, moderated by outreach committee members Kaley Govindasamy and Tagara Mwewa. The floor was opened for audience questions and engagement. Tagara, a learner at St Andrew's School for Girls, said the event reflected the heart of the JJC's outreach work. 'The speakers shared powerful stories of perseverance. They reminded us that it's possible to make an impact despite hardship.' Kaley added that the discussion aimed to spark connection and action. 'We wanted this to go beyond just listening. It was about igniting change.' Lesedi noted the event was inclusive. 'Both men and women must be part of the conversation. Equality requires shared responsibility.' The event, organised by JJC members through school networks, created a space where women's voices were heard and celebrated. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
The Citizen
16-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
St John's learner leads with passion as Johannesburg Junior Council co-mayor
At just 16 years old, Oliver Bouilliart is living proof that leadership knows no age. The Grade 11 St John's College pupil, and co-mayor of the Johannesburg Junior Council (JJC), is already making waves, as a student leader and a compassionate voice for change across Johannesburg's richly diverse communities. Despite his demanding schedule, he juggles 10 academic subjects, leads as head of the matric dance committee, and is actively involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities. His secret? 'If you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work,' he says with a smile. Read more: The Johannesburg Junior Council took to the streets on Womens Day Oliver's leadership style is deeply rooted in humility, empathy, and a strong work ethic – values instilled in him by his parents. 'It's not about getting anything in return, but rather doing it simply because it's right. My parents taught me that from a young age.' This mindset has shaped him into a servant leader, someone who lifts others up before seeking recognition for himself. 'Leadership is not about the spotlight being on you; it's about holding it to light the way for others.' Though the role of co-mayor carries significant responsibility, Oliver treasures the seemingly small moments that make a lasting impact. One such moment was distributing Easter eggs at Baragwanath Hospital. 'Seeing how something so small could mean so much made me realise we were making a real difference in people's lives,' he reflects warmly. Despite his heavy workload, Oliver willingly sacrifices time and comfort for his responsibilities. He believes: 'Passion is giving up sleep because you know it's worth it,' prioritising the joy of others over his convenience. He acknowledges the challenges of leadership, stating: 'Behind the smiles are teenagers navigating school and stress.' Still, he and his fellow councillors serve joyfully. remaining dedicated to creating meaningful change. Also read: Johannesburg Junior Council learns about child protection and healing therapies St John's College has significantly shaped Oliver's sense of purpose. While known for its academic excellence, its ethos and traditions resonate with him. From chapel reflections that deepen his faith, to cherished rituals, these experiences symbolise discipline, legacy, and belonging. He also credits the school's 'culture of excellence' for nurturing his academic and personal growth. Oliver's journey doesn't stop at Johannesburg's borders. Recently accepted into the prestigious Yale young global scholars programme, he will participate in the solving global challenges session, alongside peers from across the globe. With aspirations to study at Harvard or Yale, his ambitions reach far, but his heart remains rooted in South Africa. 'Our country is full of complexity, but beneath that lies hope and immense potential,' he reflects. 'My ultimate goal is to uplift the communities I come from – and, more broadly, South Africa as a whole.' Oliver aspires to make an impact in business, law, and philanthropy. When asked about his future, he simply says: 'Working hard. Through hard work, everything else follows.' As a young leader, his vision extends beyond school into Johannesburg's future. Oliver embodies true leadership, grounded in service, faith, and purpose, dedicated to shaping a better world. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! Related article: The Johannesburg Student Council continues to inspire Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg learner At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
