As it has around the world, the Adolescence documentary – about the challenges and dangers that online culture presents to teens – has been big news in South Africa. The terrifying picture it paints is, sadly, universal. And in communities where poverty and parental absence mean the guardrails are down, the risks are compounded.
It’s impossible for parents in even the most privileged and watchful families to be certain that their children are insulated from the harmful messaging that makes them question themselves, and their choices, at a time when they are already so vulnerable and susceptible. And that goes double for our Net Buddies and their peers.
So we are deeply, deeply grateful for your involvement in the lives of our Infinite Family teens who are among the most marginalised. The donations you make, and the time our Video Mentors commit, to providing support, encouragement and guidance is – quite literally – a lifeline. Through honest and safe conversations with their mentors, our Net Buddies are able to share their fears and rely on wise, caring advice from adults who see them, hear them and can help to steer them to a better, brighter future.