On August 13, 2024, members of ASEZ, the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group, were invited to the residence of South Africa’s Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities. During this meeting with Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, both parties discussed cooperation on various environmental issues and cooperative plans.
In the reception room where the meeting took place, large ceremonial flags and table flags of the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Korea were prominently displayed. The minister warmly welcomed the 22 ASEZ members, dressed in traditional South African attire typically worn at public events or when hosting important guests. This gesture demonstrated the minister’s intention to treat ASEZ as state guests. The meeting also included six government officials, including two advisors to the Vice President of South Africa, who expressed interest in ASEZ’s initiatives.
ASEZ presented the overview of the organization along with its crime prevention initiative “Reduce Crime Together (RCT)” and the “Earth Restoration Project” announced at the Global ASEZ Summit 2024. The minister listened attentively, taking notes, and gave a warm round of applause after the presentation, showing her support and encouragement.
The minister expressed her deep impression of ASEZ’s beliefs and activities, stating, “I believe ASEZ’s activities should be shared with all the youth in South Africa.” She also remarked, “I was deeply touched by the voluntary service of ASEZ young adults being practiced not only in Korea but around the world. Please do not stop; keep pushing forward. I hope you will contribute not only to your country and community but also to other countries in need of your service.” She also expressed her support for ASEZ activities, expressing her hope that if the Ministry of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities signs its first MOU with the Republic of Korea, it would include ASEZ.
Tuleo Given Tapela, a student at the University of Pretoria who introduced ASEZ, said, “When the minister spoke about ASEZ, I could see her desire to learn more about us in her eyes. The two large and small flags of both countries made me feel as if we were meeting with the President.”
The vision of ASEZ, which began on campus, is now unfolding on the global stage. There is significant interest in their future and the steps they will take as they create endless possibilities.