From Questions to Confidence: How a Soul Buddyz Visit to Vyeboom Clinic Empowered Young Minds

As part of the Soul Buddyz programme, learners recently participated in an educational visit to Vyeboom Clinic, where they engaged in an interactive session focusing on HIV stigma and personal safety.

The visit was more than just a lesson; it was an opportunity for learners to explore important topics in a safe and supportive environment. Many children have questions about health and wellbeing but may not always have spaces where they feel comfortable asking them. Through the clinic visit, learners were encouraged to speak openly, seek information, and build confidence in discussing issues that affect their lives.

Creating a safe space for young voices

The session was facilitated by Nurse Mudau, who guided learners through conversations about HIV stigma and personal safety in a way that was engaging, age-appropriate, and easy to understand.

With patience and care, Nurse Mudau helped learners unpack these important topics, ensuring that every child could participate and feel heard. Learners responded with enthusiasm, asking questions, sharing their understanding, and actively engaging throughout the session.

For the learners, the experience reinforced an important message: having accurate information helps children protect themselves, challenge harmful beliefs, and support others.

Breaking stigma through education

One of the key lessons from the visit was the importance of compassion and understanding when talking about HIV. By learning about HIV stigma, learners were encouraged to treat others with respect, kindness, and dignity.

The session helped children recognise that misinformation can create fear and discrimination, while education and empathy can help build stronger and more inclusive communities.

Through these conversations, Soul Buddyz learners are not only gaining knowledge for themselves — they are also becoming young advocates who can positively influence their peers, families, and communities.

The power of partnership

The success of the educational visit was made possible through the collaboration between Vyeboom Clinic and Thomas Ntshavheni Primary School.

The warm welcome from the clinic team and the support from the school management created an environment where learners could learn, engage, and grow.

“We would like to sincerely thank Vyeboom Clinic for the warm welcome and impactful lesson, and the management of Thomas Ntshavheni Primary School for their continuous support and for allowing this collaboration,” said Angel Maladzhi, Social Mobiliser.

Building a generation of informed and confident children

The Soul Buddyz programme continues to create platforms where children can access trusted information, develop life skills, and become active participants in building healthier communities.

The visit to Vyeboom Clinic showed the impact of combining education, community support, and youth participation. When children are given knowledge and a voice, they become more confident in making positive choices and supporting those around them.

Together, through partnerships and empowerment, we are raising informed, safe, and confident children.