Gautrain Launches Children’s Book On Climate Change

The Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) launched its fifth children’s book, Yolisa’s Mighty Mission, on February 17, 2023 at Soweto Theatre with a reading by renowned South African storyteller, Dr Gcina Mhlophe.

The book follows young Yolisa on her mission to reduce carbon emissions and save Mother Earth.

The colourfully illustrated book is for children of all ages and comes in three languages: English, Isizulu and Sesotho.

Armed with her Gautrain map and her Gogo’s chocolate biscuits, Yolisa is out to prove that anyone can change the world, all it takes is a bit of imagination.

Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.

The story themes covered in the book include the effects of climate change and how having fewer cars on the roads and using public transport can significantly reduce carbon emissions.

We have launched a number of children’s book throughout the years as a way of introducing the importance of public transport use and Gautrain to learners, we also recognise the value of reading in nurturing young minds, fostering a love of learning and opening a door to endless possibilities. Yolisa’s Mighty Mission makes learning fun and engaging because we understand that introducing concepts such as climate change can seem daunting for parents.

// Gautrain Management Agency Senior Executive Manager, Communication and Marketing, Dr Barbara Jensen Vorster

Dr Gcina Mhlophe, who has significantly contributed to the revival of the African storytelling tradition, kicked-off the launch by engaging Primary school learners from Soweto in a reading experience. Image: Gautrain Management Agency (GMA)

The multilingual book was launched just in time to celebrate International Mother Language Day on February 21, 2023. International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999. It is a worldwide annual observance held on February 21 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

YOLISA’S MIGHTY MISSION is distributed at various schools and community libraries in Gauteng.