Message from The CEO
As we enter 2021, we are mindful that we are in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, with huge implications for our communities in the form of increased unemployment levels, and a deepening of inequality and poverty. Food insecurity has become a very real issue for many people. Young people are not immune to these challenges, including experiencing the impact of no or very little schooling in 2020. These challenges continue to compel the Chrysalis Academy, as a leader in holistic youth development, to be as responsive at all times to the needs of young people. During 2021, our therapeutic care will be enhanced and we will continue to be leaders in the provision of psychosocial support to young people. We will continue to deepen the capacity of young people to become TRE providers and Integral Yoga teachers, breaking the myth that only certain sections of the population can be providers of therapeutic care.
The Academy has just completed its new strategic plan for the years 2021–2024 and its Annual Performance Plan for 2021/2022. These plans will guide the activities of the Academy over the next few years.
OUR MISSION REMAINS THAT OF PROVIDING A PLATFORM FOR YOUTH TO DEEPEN THEIR RESILIENCE AND UNLEASH THEIR POTENTIAL THROUGH MENTAL, PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT, ENABLING THEM TO BE ROLE MODELS AND AGENTS OF POSITIVE CHANGE.
We will continue to offer a three-months residential programme to youth aged 18-25 with a minimum of Grade 9, but will be expanding and upscaling our work to younger youth as well as building the foundation for a community-based holistic programme through our Youth Hub Ambassador programme. We will also be supporting the Western Cape Safety plan by providing leadership development to the Youth Safety Ambassadors to be appointed by the Department of Community Safety.
During 2021, we hope to expand the work of our Youth Hub Ambassadors to play a much more meaningful role in supporting graduates in their communities.
Our approach remains a holistic one that focusses on all dimensions of a human being; the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual so that all youth can discover the voice of their own souls. We remain grateful for the support from our Trustees, funders, parents, students, partners and staff. Deep appreciation to the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, and in particular the Departments of Community Safety and Social Development, without whose support, our programme would not be possible. We are excited to continue our relationship with Distell in pursuance of positive youth development.
May all our youth have the opportunity to have shiny eyes!
Lucille Meyer
CEO