Meet The Unlimited: Praise Majwafi

My name is Praise Majwafi and I’m a youth volunteer in action. Making the choice to join the GenU Global Volunteer Initiative as a youth volunteer with UNICEF in South Africa planted a seed of fearlessness in me that has only grown. A fearlessness to face the realities of the world and boldly believe that positive change can occur, and not only that, but that I can be a part of that change.

Volunteering has given me unparalleled hope in humanity. For instance, through Generation Unlimited I have met and connected with people who have shown an unwavering commitment to the advancement of society, and it has inspired me to continuously and actively participate in global progression.

As a young social entrepreneur, I have grown exponentially through my volunteering interactions which have been numerous – from advocating online and offline to end violence against women and children, to supporting UNICEF to raise awareness on the importance of breastfeeding, to co-training other volunteers for youth advocacy workshops.

Volunteering has boosted my skills such as leadership, personal management, teamwork, flexibility, strategic thinking, advocacy, and many more. All valuable skills equipping me for my future in entrepreneurship, employment, and social impact on a global level.

My experience as a volunteer has inspired me to not only pursue my dreams but to also put the needs of others first. So that their growth and wellbeing is also prioritized. Generation Unlimited is about maximizing the creativity and inspiration of a GENERATION of young people, not just the luckier few.

I’ve seen how my acts of volunteering lead to more people doing good and wanting to be part of something bigger. Witnessing this has given me hope in the future and power in the present.

I have come to realize the quote by Nelson Mandela, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”. You don’t need all the qualifications or know-how to volunteer, to create a felt change. You just need the active willingness to say here I am, ready and able to contribute.

Through these volunteering programs, we are creating powerful micro-societies where everyone’s strengths are maximized, where we are all challenged and empowered to be more and do more, and where we can come together to work on our greater good. The desire to give back and participate in global change continues to grow in me and my fellow peers and we are enriched by it. The support of the United Nations, Governments, and the private sector alike can elevate a whole generation of volunteers and our peers to reimagine a better future for all countries around the world.

Realizing the sheer amount of work and resources that go into democratizing the idea of giving a helping hand is reassuring. Working on something greater than yourself is a gift not many people have the opportunity to experience.

I hope we continue to contribute, for the act of giving is an act of life.