Youth take the lead at Camp Cape Town

06 April 2025

The City’s Recreation and Parks Department’s annual Camp Cape Town has wrapped up after an inspiring and action-packed week at the scenic Zandvlei Resort in Muizenberg. The 2025 edition brought together 73 promising young participants from the City’s Youth Afterschool Programme who have shown leadership potential.

Held from Monday, 31 March to Friday, 4 April 2025, the camp offered participants aged 14–17 years a transformative experience of personal growth, leadership assessment and meaningful engagement through outdoor activities. While all 73 youth attended the camp, only 36 were selected to continue with the Recreation Leadership Development Programme(RLDP).

‘This is more than just a camp – it’s an investment in future leaders. Camp Cape Town brings together a diverse group of youth, encouraging teamwork, resilience and a deep sense of purpose. We are incredibly proud of the energy, maturity and creativity shown by this year’s group. Their leadership potential is undeniable,’ said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.

The camp forms part of the selection process for the City’s RLDP – a flagship initiative focusing on developing youth through recreation, leadership and community service.

The purpose of Camp Cape Town is to identify those best suited to the RLDP journey. It remains a cornerstone of the City’s broader Youth Afterschool Programme.

Now in its 11th year, Camp Cape Town continues to play a vital role in equipping young people with the skills to become positive role models in their communities. The programme fosters an appreciation for nature, promotes active lifestyles and provides alternatives that steer youth away from negative influences.

Throughout the week, participants took part in a wide range of activities – from leadership workshops and team-building challenges to nature hikes, fitness sessions and creative learning experiences. Highlights included a break-dancing workshop, a LEGO Serious Play session focused on problem-solving and outdoor sport to strengthen teamwork and leadership skills.

The camp concluded with a formal evaluation session, where participants were assessed on their leadership potential. Those who demonstrate strong capabilities will be selected for the RLDP. Participants also had the opportunity to share their passions, reflect on their values and receive mentorship from facilitators who once stood in their shoes.

Selected participants will now embark on a one-year RLDP journey, structured into three development-focused quarters:
• Quarter 1: Personal Growth and Development
• Quarter 2: Recreational Programme Development & Implementation
• Quarter 3: Community Engagement

Through the RLDP, the City continues to unlock the potential of Cape Town’s youth by offering safe spaces, mentorship and meaningful opportunities through its community-based programmes.

                        
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office