DELMAS – A 22-year-old psychology student from Eloff near Delmas is appealing for financial support after earning a partial scholarship to represent South Africa at the Civic Youth Forum 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Pelonomi Karabo Moselane, who is studying psychology through Emeris Online, was selected as a partially funded delegate following a competitive international application process. The Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA) recognised her leadership potential and commitment to community development by awarding her the scholarship.
The forum, taking place from 17 to 20 September 2026, will bring together young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, researchers and civil society representatives from around the world to discuss leadership, democracy, civic participation, public policy, coalition-building and combating misinformation.
For Moselane, the opportunity is about more than travelling abroad. She hopes to bring international knowledge and practical solutions back to South Africa to empower young people in Delmas and surrounding communities.
“As an aspiring young leader, I’ve always been passionate about making a difference in my community. I believe young people should be at the centre of solving community challenges,” she said.
She said South Africa’s high levels of youth unemployment and limited civic education inspired her to apply for the programme, which will expose participants to global best practices in youth civic development, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation and policy advocacy.
Applicants were required to submit their CVs, academic records and motivational statements before advancing to a final round that included written responses and a virtual interview.
“A week after my interview, I received an email informing me that I had been awarded a partially funded scholarship,” she said.
Moselane said representing South Africa internationally is both an honour and a responsibility.
“South Africa has a unique story of resilience, democracy and young people who continue to drive change despite many challenges. I want to represent the creativity, diversity and determination of South African youth.”
She believes the experience will complement her psychology studies by deepening her understanding of governance, culture, civic engagement and youth mental health.
After returning from Denmark, Moselane hopes to establish community outreach initiatives promoting mental health awareness and encouraging young people to participate in democracy and governance, particularly ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
Although the scholarship covers forum participation, shared accommodation, meals during the official programme and visa assistance, she still needs about R40 000 for international flights, travel insurance, visa-related expenses, local transport and other travel costs.
Moselane must raise at least R20 000 by 20 August 2026 to confirm her flights and submit the required travel documentation before departing South Africa on 15 September.
She has approached businesses, organisations and government departments for sponsorship. Victor Khanye Local Municipality informed her that it is unable to provide financial assistance at this stage, but she remains hopeful that businesses and members of the public will support her.
Those wishing to assist can contact Moselane directly on 078 009 1205. A BackaBuddy campaign has also been created, although she said direct support is preferred because of the urgent deadline.
“This is a life-changing opportunity that will greatly benefit not only me as an individual, but South African youth,” she said.
