In a world where success is often measured by employment status, many young people quietly carry the heavy burden of waiting.
Waiting for an opportunity. Waiting for a breakthrough. Waiting for life to finally begin. It was this reality that formed the heart of a powerful youth session recently hosted by Love Your Mind, under the theme ‘Young and Waiting’. The gathering created a safe and open space for young people to speak honestly about the struggles of unemployment, the emotional toll it can take, and the importance of protecting mental health during uncertain seasons.
For many young people today, unemployment has become something of a silent pandemic. While they strive to make ends meet and pursue their dreams, the long and uncertain wait for employment can be deeply discouraging. The process requires patience, resilience and faith, believing that when the time is right, opportunities will come.
The session highlighted how difficult this waiting period can be. Young people often find themselves under intense pressure from society and even from their own families. Questions about employment, expectations to succeed quickly and constant comparisons can create feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
Participants were encouraged to engage their parents and communities in honest conversations, helping them understand that employment does not always come immediately after finishing school or training. Sometimes the journey takes time, and that waiting does not mean failure.
Among the guest speakers was Pastor and teacher Rejoice Ndzinisa, who spoke passionately about patience and faith during difficult seasons. “As young people we are encouraged to remain patient, continue building ourselves and trust in God’s timing even when the journey feels slow. Learn to find yourself. Google your way to something that will work for you,” Ndzinisa said
She also emphasised that while waiting can be painful, it can also be a period of growth and self-discovery. However, she acknowledged that the emotional weight of unemployment can sometimes lead to depression. “It is very hard to stay sane when you are suffering from depression. You need to work hard every day and go out there and get what you want. Don’t let the world happen to you and don’t allow yourself to receive the struggles of life,” she explained
The session also explored practical ways young people can cope with stress during periods of unemployment. Seeking support, remaining hopeful and focusing on personal development were highlighted as essential strategies. Participants were reminded that waiting does not necessarily mean standing still it can be a season of preparation for what lies ahead.
Another guest speaker, Tebe Mngomezulu, who studied Human Resource Management, shared her own personal experience with depression and how she managed to overcome it.
“Depression strikes very hard in times when you are struggling to get a job. Therefore, it is important to take care of your emotional wellness, your feelings and emotions, as well as your social well-being, which deals with how well you manage friendships and relationships,” she highlighted
Mngomezulu explained that mental health is not only about how a person feels internally, but also about the quality of their support systems. Strong relationships, meaningful connections and open conversations can make a significant difference during difficult times.
During the discussion, several challenges commonly associated with depression were highlighted. These included social anxiety, loneliness and persistent feelings of not being good enough. Such emotions, if left unaddressed, can gradually erode a young person’s confidence and motivation.
Speakers also spoke about the power of humility, noting that it can open many doors in life. Humility, they said, requires no special effort, only humanity and a kind heart, yet it often attracts opportunities and positive relationships.
Seeking support when dealing with depression is vital. Equally important is nurturing a strong relationship with God, which many believe can provide strength and comfort during life’s most challenging moments.
Participants were also reminded that opportunities do not always come in traditional forms. Creativity, resilience and a willingness to use available resources can help young people build meaningful livelihoods.
In a generation often defined by waiting, the conversation served as a powerful reminder that patience, hope and self-belief remain essential tools for navigating life’s uncertain seasons.
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