Neftaly Malatjie Speech for launching SayProRoyal-19 SayPro Royal Board Public Policy and Advocacy Committee

Kgotso a ebe le lena,

distinguished guests, esteemed members of the SayPro community, and our partners in public service and advocacy:

It is with great honor and excitement that I stand before you today to officially launch the SayProRoyal-19 SayPro Royal Board Public Policy and Advocacy Committee. This is a momentous occasion for all of us, as we come together to strengthen the foundation of public policy and advocacy, aiming to shape the future for generations to come.

[Acknowledgments]

Before I go further, let me take a moment to acknowledge the invaluable efforts of everyone who has worked tirelessly to make today possible. From our dedicated board members to the countless individuals and organizations who believe in the power of youth-led advocacy and policy-making—this achievement is a result of your commitment to the vision of SayPro. Your contributions are truly appreciated.

[Importance of SayProRoyal-19 and the Committee]

The establishment of the SayProRoyal-19 Public Policy and Advocacy Committee marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of SayPro as an organization. This committee is more than just a group of individuals—it is a powerful platform for driving change, raising awareness, and advocating for the rights and needs of youth and underserved communities across Southern Africa.

At its core, this committee represents the collective voice of our youth—diverse, determined, and driven by the desire to influence policies that will create lasting positive impacts in our society. It will serve as a beacon for progress, ensuring that public policies are not only inclusive but also responsive to the challenges we face in our communities.

[The Role of the Committee]

The SayProRoyal-19 committee will be instrumental in advocating for policies that support sustainable development, education, youth empowerment, and economic inclusivity. It will work closely with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to ensure that the voices of young people are heard at every table where decisions that affect their future are being made.

Together, we will take action to bridge the gap between the policymaking world and the communities that are most impacted by these decisions. Our aim is to foster a culture of collaboration, where policies are not imposed from the top down but are co-created in partnership with the communities they serve.

[Vision for the Future]

Looking ahead, we envision a future where youth are at the forefront of policy advocacy and decision-making. A future where the SayProRoyal-19 committee is not only a leader in public policy but also a hub for training, mentorship, and the development of young leaders who will go on to influence policies at the national, regional, and global levels.

This committee will not shy away from the tough conversations. We will engage in meaningful dialogue, challenge the status quo, and push for systemic change. We will stand strong in the face of adversity and speak truth to power, ensuring that our advocacy is both impactful and transformative.

[Call to Action]

As we embark on this exciting journey, I call upon all of you—our members, supporters, and partners—to join hands with us. Let us work together to amplify the voices of the youth, to create policies that empower communities, and to ensure that advocacy becomes a tool for real, lasting change.

The SayProRoyal-19 Public Policy and Advocacy Committee is now officially launched, and we are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Together, we can achieve a future where every policy decision reflects the needs and aspirations of the people it affects.

[Conclusion]

In closing, I would like to thank each and every one of you for being here today. Your presence is a testament to your commitment to building a better tomorrow. We stand at the precipice of something truly remarkable, and with your support, the future of SayProRoyal-19 and the communities we serve has never been brighter.

Let’s make history together.

Thank you.

[End of Speech]