Grade 11 learner Isaiah Mataka was recently selected as junior mayor in the Saldanha Bay Youth Council.
About his new position he says he feels honoured and humbled to represent the youth of the region.
According to Isaiah, he never thought he would be Junior Mayor. “I found out about the whole Youth Council only last year, when I joined, and the more I think about being Junior Mayor the more it still feels unreal,” he says.
Isaiah notes there will be some challenges, but he is ready to face them head on.
“Time will definitely be a problem, being Junior Mayor as well as head boy and a matric learner at the same time will definitely come with its challenges.”
Isaiah, however, says he will use his time management and organisational skills to cope with this.
“I am also very excited about working with my fellow youth councillors. They are all from different backgrounds, and will therefore bring different perspectives and bright ideas that can be used to help the youth of our community.”
In his role as Junior Mayor, Isaiah says he plans to focus on issues affecting youth, such as low matric pass rates, mental health, teenage pregnancy, and much more.
Isaiah says he also has hobbies, which include playing for the first rugby team and physical activity by running and training in general.
He wants young people to know that they should believe in their dreams.
“Set realistic goals every day, which will help you on the journey to achieving your dreams,” Isaiah said.
“Don’t be afraid to dream. Anything is possible if you put in enough hard work and dedication.
