The annual Malelane Youth Conference in Schulzendal, near Malelane, took place from 24 to 27 September and drew members of royal households. The Honourable Prince of the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), Prince Mguqiso, son of His Majesty, King Sobhuza 11, graced the conference with his presence. But he was not the only royalty to attend – the Queen of Nkosi Shongwe from the local area honoured the participants with her presence on Sunday.
Pastor Khumalo arrived with a group of young people from Eswatini. A total of 645 children were registered for the services, along with several adults and some local pastors from nearby churches. In line with the conference theme, based on Proverbs 4:23, “Guard your heart,” Prince Mguqiso shared words of wisdom with the young people and thanked the hosts for their work to address social ills and provide upliftment opportunities for local communities. This conference is part of the extended youth development programme of the Kwasizabantu Mission in KwaZulu-Natal, which extends across South Africa and even into neighbouring countries.
A week or two before the conference began, the Mission’s first team arrived at the Schulzendal Mission. They visited schools, shared the gospel, and invited learners to the conference. At Schulzendal, they helped prepare for the conference, setting up tents for services and accommodation. More buses and helpers from KZN arrived as the date approached. The buses then went out to fetch all the children from places such as Oshoek, Lochiel, Badplaas, Barberton, Matsulu, Kanjamazane, Phola, Chlau Chlau, Thulamahashe, Nogobotsi and Magogeni.
The three daily meetings were well attended. Young people shared testimonies about how the Lord saved them and what He had done for them. On Saturday morning, it was all fun and games with sporting activities, and all could participate. The closing service on Sunday evening challenged the young people to nurture the seed planted during the conference. They were also challenged to guard their hearts in their walk with the Lord Jesus.
Dr Elsa Bosman from KwaSizabantu is well known for assisting at outreach events such as this one, despite her advanced age. Each event is close to her heart and gives her purpose. She was among the many volunteers at the conference and shared her experience as follows: “It is always a blessing to see the Lord at work. He works in miraculous ways. From day one, His presence could be felt and His work experienced. The children were calm, and everything went smoothly. I thank the Lord for His grace.”
The KwaSizabantu Youth conferences are held twice a year at the Mission station in KZN, but have extended their reach far beyond its borders. The Malelane conference is one of the many branches of the mission station across South Africa, and beyond. This Christian conference has been far more than an annual gathering; it has been a place where faith is strengthened, lives are transformed, and generations come together to encounter the Lord.
What began over 50 years ago as a small gathering, spearheaded by Lidia Dube, a missionary who had dedicated her life’s work to the Lord, has grown into a cherished tradition. At first, Lidia gathered a few young people to share her testimony and to give them a platform to share theirs. Now the conference is held twice a year at different venues, drawing believers from near and far to worship, learn, pray, and build lasting friendships rooted in Christ. The conference still honours the tradition of sharing life stories to inspire others.
Year after year, attendees return to these conferences with stories of renewed hope, spiritual growth, and life-changing messages, honouring the foundations laid by those who faithfully served before them. The organisers said after the conference: “We are full of gratitude and thank the Lord for His working among the youth and His presence throughout the conference. Many young people stayed behind after the services and made their lives right with God. We thank God for His grace and mercy in keeping His hand over the vehicles and everyone travelling to and from the conference.”
(Watch the short videos about the conference by following the link: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=kwasizabantu+schulzendale+live)