Suicide is a growing mental health crisis in South Africa, particularly among the youth. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds. Factors such as unemployment, academic pressure, trauma, substance abuse, and lack of mental health resources contribute significantly to this alarming trend. Young people often face stigma when seeking help, or they lack awareness of available support. Many suffer in silence, feeling isolated or hopeless. Suicide is rarely about wanting to die; it’s often about wanting the pain to stop. This distinction is key in understanding and addressing the issue compassionately and effectively. This crisis is intensified by the pressures of modern life, particularly the overwhelming influence of social media, which has transformed the way young people interact, perceive themselves, and view the world. In the context of a developing country marked by inequality, unemployment, trauma, and social instability, the mental well-being of South African youth is increasingly at risk. As Expressions, we ask are social ills in the country are killing the youth?

Following the recent incidents. South Africa’s influencer world has been rocked to its core since the Alabuga START Programme, sold to young women as a glittering Russian work-study opportunity, was unmasked as a sinister front for human trafficking and war exploitation. Should influencers takes responsibility or be accountable for misinformation or disinformation.?

severe flooding in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape since June 1, 2024, has caused extensive damage and loss of life. The NSRI has been pivotal in rescue operations, saving numerous lives. This catastrophe, which began on June 1, 2024, has highlighted the vulnerabilities and urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in these areas. Expressions visited flood victims in juskei river

Expressions will spotlight successful programs, such as reading clubs in under-resourced communities, digital libraries, and school-based literacy interventions. Our focus will be not just on the challenges, but also the stories of resilience and innovation that are helping children and adults reclaim the power of reading and writing. To explore how we can motivate young South Africans to read more, not just academically, but for enjoyment and personal growth, in a world dominated by mobile phones, social media, and instant entertainment. South Africa has one of the lowest reading-for-meaning scores globally. Many learners grow up in homes without books. Digital devices are often more accessible than physical books, but are used mainly for entertainment, not education. Excessive screen time is linked to poor attention span, passive consumption, and detachment from traditional reading. Many communities lack libraries, bookstores, or affordable books. Few books are available in indigenous languages, limiting comprehension and connection. Reading is not often modelled at home or seen as "cool" by peers. There is also a lack of relevant, relatable, and engaging local stories for youth.

Proposal Expressions will be looking at GBV and Femicide as we close Women's Month. What can be done to curb the pandemic? Hammanskraal Father Commits Heinous Crime, Stabbing Girlfriend to Death and Posting Chilling Confession Online. A man who should have been a loving father brutally stabbed his girlfriend, the mother of his child, in the throat. After the murder, he posted online, claiming he loved her and was in pain, then shared a live video of her lifeless body, with blood everywhere. His cold words were: Judge me all you want, it is done. This horrific act of gender-based violence occurred in Hammanskraal. NO to GBV!

Youth participation in international decision-making is not just important. It is essential. Their perspectives and innovations are fundamental to addressing pressing global challenges, from social justice to economic inclusion. In this context, the Youth 20 (Y20) serves as a vital platform for integrating the voices of young people into global policy discussions and ensuring their contributions shape a more inclusive and sustainable future. Connecting with global peers to share solutions and collaborate across cultures. Gaining tools to drive change and not just in politics, but in education, economic inclusion, health, technology, and entrepreneurship. For example Youth Unemployment & Economic Inclusion How do we create sustainable opportunities for youth in an evolving job market driven by technology and innovation?” How do we include youth from rural areas who do not even access to such platforms.

Following the recent incidents. Awareness concerning bullying have come to the fore in the wake of bullying scenes from David Mama Senior School in Mdantsane Eastern Cape, which have regrettably led to 5 learners and a bus driver suspended. Expressions ask Do our schools have a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying.

July is National Savings Month in South Africa time to take stock, reassess, and reframe our relationship with money. The economy is not exactly thriving, and many households are doing their best just to stay afloat. However, savings still matter. Saving even a little can be life changing. According to recent data, over 80% of middle-income South Africans don’t have enough saved to cover even one week of expenses. That’s not a small problem –yes, young South Africans are saving, but their saving habits are evolving. Some young South Africans struggle with saving due to low income, high living costs, and a tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term financial goals. A significant number of young South Africans are also grappling with debt, which can hinder their ability to save. As Expressions we ask is our youth being taught the importance of savings.