By the SayPro Chancellor Officer– Jeffery Montapina
Good morning esteemed colleagues, partners, stakeholders, and fellow South Africans,
Today, on Freedom Day 2025, we gather not only to reflect — but to recommit. This day stands as one of the most profound markers in our history. It reminds us of where we have come from, what we have overcome, and what we must continue to build together.
As the Chancellor Officer of SayPro, I carry the responsibility of safeguarding the vision, values, and direction of our institution. In a world that is constantly changing, and in a country still shaped by its complex past, we must ask:
What does freedom mean in this moment — for our youth, our systems, and our shared future?
It is easy to celebrate democracy in principle. But real leadership lies in ensuring that democracy lives in practice — in the classroom, in the boardroom, in policy, in opportunity, and most importantly, in the lives of young South Africans.
Today, I share with you three reflections on the deeper role of leadership and institutions in sustaining our freedom:
1. Freedom Must Be Led with Integrity
Institutions matter. Systems matter. Leadership matters. At SayPro, we are not only a platform for youth development — we are custodians of trust. As leaders, our duty is to act with transparency, accountability, and courage. Because if our institutions fail our youth, we fail our democracy.
2. Freedom Must Be Anchored in Opportunity
The fight for political freedom is won. The fight for economic and educational freedom continues. Our youth must not be trapped by barriers that democracy promised to break. Our job as an organisation is to make those promises real — through skills, access, empowerment, and inclusion.
3. Freedom Must Be Forward-Looking
Our founders handed us freedom. But it is the youth who will shape its future. We must invest not only in the present needs of young people, but in their aspirations — in their ability to lead, govern, innovate, and uplift the next generation. SayPro exists to prepare them for that responsibility.
Colleagues, friends, and young leaders of this nation:
Let us not merely commemorate Freedom Day. Let us honour it through action — by building institutions that are just, by developing systems that are inclusive, and by nurturing leadership that is ethical, visionary, and grounded in the service of our people.
At SayPro, our commitment is to lead with purpose, to serve with integrity, and to ensure that freedom is not just a historical memory — but a daily, lived experience for every young South African.
To the youth:
You are the architects of tomorrow. Your voice matters. Your dreams are valid. Your leadership is needed.
And to all of us in positions of power and influence:
Let our leadership be worthy of their future.
Happy Freedom Day. May we lead wisely, act boldly, and never lose sight of the freedom we are privileged to protect.
Thank you.
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