Day 3

© ADAP

Day Three focused on the way forward for reaching adolescents. It was proposed that an international brand be created for reaching adolescents. Participants agreed that Xpression was very appropriate, especially as it had the same meaning and similar pronunciation in mainstream languages. Everyone wanted a copy of the workshops' videos. Other proposals included the formation of a network among the organisations represented at the workshops, targeting the private and public sector to further assist in reaching adolescents through sponsorship, the creation of a magazine run by young people, and the creation of a website. Participants met the next morning to review what was discussed, and make more points concerning the proposals. Participants reiterated that what is strategically important is not so much the art form used, but the pedagogy of what is done with the artform. Organisations should not pass judgement on young people nor be prescriptive. Negative cultures and their causes should be identified so that they may be prevented from affecting other adolescents.

Edutainment is important in reaching them. "Graffiti art, puppetry, fashion and other artforms are exactly the things that attract young people," said a participant. "Put positive messages on and in the chests of youngsters. Messages need to be contemporary. Young people have the tendency to cling to messages. I don't think we need to change the adolescents. We need to change. We need to see them not just as individuals but also as people with families and friends. We must make them agents of their own change and create a network. We should help them get involved in policy making and politics. Communities must be embraced in social work."