Bam aims to inspire young people

YOUR STORY, YOUR TRUTH, YOUR PERSPECTIVE, IT'S POWERFUL

- NAMHLA MONAKALI

At just 16 years old, Michael-Daniel Bam is no stranger to leadership or Cape Town's sharp contrasts. “I grew up between two very different worlds,” he explains.

A learner at Cedar House High School in Claremont, Bam’s roots trace back to Grassy Park, where he still spends weekends and holidays with family. “Moving between these communities made me aware, from a young age, of the deep socio-economic divide in our city. That awareness pushed me to act.”

Today, that action has the title Junior Mayor of Cape Town. It’s a role he doesn’t take lightly. “I stepped into this position to represent young people who feel unseen and unheard. My mission is to amplify those voices and bridge the gaps that divide us. “The Junior City Council (JCC) is a leadership platform where high school learners from across Cape Town are nominated to represent their communities.

The council simulates real municipal processes, with junior councillors working together to identify challenges in their wards and initiate youth-led community projects. The goal is to cultivate civic responsibility, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of local government among the city’s youth. “It’s not just about titles,” says Bam “We learn how the city works, but more importantly, we get to do the work, serving, building, and leading in ways that make a real difference.”