Aware.org, the alcohol industry’s non-profit organisation dedicated to harm reduction, joined the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB) and community partners to launch the #NoToU18 Peer-to-Peer Programme in Gqeberha. Delivered in partnership with United Through Sport (UTS), the initiative empowers young people to take the lead in changing behaviours and addressing the risks of underage drinking.
The programme trains student leaders to run peer-driven campaigns that encourage healthier choices. Alongside workshops on the effects of alcohol on health, emotions, and long-term goals, activities focus on resilience, leadership, and building safer communities.
The programme uses interactive sessions to demonstrate the impact of underage drinking on health, brain development, emotions, and future aspirations.
“This programme is not about adults lecturing young people. It is about equipping them to speak to each other, in their own voices, about the dangers of underage drinking,” said Mokebe Thulo, CEO of Aware.org. “When the community itself takes the lead, behaviour begins to shift. We stand alongside government, civil society, and youth leaders in building a safer future for the Eastern Cape. Every statistic is a young life at risk, and every partnership brings us closer to change. By working together, we can shift the culture around alcohol and protect the next generation.”
Dr. Makala, CEO of the Eastern Cape Liquor Board, added: “The #NoToU18 programme exemplifies how collaboration between government, civil society, and youth leaders can produce meaningful impact. Empowering young people to make safer choices is critical — not only for their future, but for the wellbeing of the entire community.”
Recent reports underscore the urgency of the issue, highlighting a growing crisis of underage drinking in Eastern Cape schools and the tragic consequences of “pens down” parties, alcohol-related road crashes, and youth violence linked to drinking. Data and community observations indicate that the province faces one of the highest burdens of alcohol-related harm in the country.
In addition to the Peer-to-Peer visit, the initiative highlighted Aware.org’s broader collaborative work in the Eastern Cape. Partnerships with organisations such as UTS and the Nelson Mandela Metro Department of Social Development, support prevention and community services. Further agreements with Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Police enhance enforcement, raise awareness on issues such as drunk driving, and coordinate harm-reduction campaigns aligned with Aware.org’s strategic pillars: #NOtoU18, Don’t Drink and Drive, and Sober Pregnancies.
Through initiatives like #NoToU18, Aware.org continues to spotlight national partnerships and strengthen local responses to alcohol harm. By placing youth at the centre, the organisation demonstrates that real change comes not from a whole-of-society approach. This includes empowering young people to say yes to their futures.
By fostering collaboration, championing innovation, and elevating youth leadership, Aware.org is helping to shape a South Africa where young people are supported to make safer, healthier choices.
