Germiston, Gauteng – 25 March 2025 – As 420, the international celebration of cannabis, takes centre stage today—coinciding this year with Easter Sunday (April 20)—South Africa confronts what experts warn is a “perfect storm” for youth vulnerability.
In response, World Changers Candidate (WCC), one of South Africa’s leading anti-drug nonprofits, is spearheading a nationwide campaign to push back against the rising normalisation of cannabis use among teens.
At the heart of this effort is a powerful collaboration with Hoërskool Elspark in Germiston, launched March 28, 2025, with a blend of spiritual reflection, scientific education, and youth-focused workshops. WCC calls this a “generational emergency” demanding urgent attention.
Why 420? The normalisation of cannabis culture
Social media and peer-driven trends are glamorising cannabis like never before. In South Africa, peer pressure is among the top contributing factors for youths with higher level of drug use. WCC warns that 420 is no harmless celebration—but a symbol of a growing health crisis.
“Learners face relentless exposure to the glorification of cannabis, especially around 420,” WCC spokesperson Lucas Mahlakgane noted. “We’re stepping in where the danger is most acute—our schools.”
Easter vs 420: A battle for influence
This year, Easter Sunday—symbolising hope and renewal—falls on the same day as 420. WCC is seizing this symbolic moment to rally churches across South Africa to deliver anti-drug sermons and host youth workshops during the Holy Week.
“This isn’t just about weed,” says WCC chairperson Mr Hendry Mahori. “It’s about protecting the soul of our next generation.”
ALSO READ: 4/20 global weed holiday: Central Drug Authority sends strong cautionary message
Health red flags: The hidden dangers of weed
Despite its casual image, cannabis poses serious risks:
- University of California San Francisco: Cannabis smoke can be as toxic as tobacco smokers: “Accelerated decline in pulmonary function with heavier use – either very frequent use or frequent use over many years.
- Teen vaping study (2021): Marijuana users face greater rate of respiratory issues.
- Research shows increase in hypodopaminergic anhedoniaic (depression), cognitive decline, poor memory & impaired learning performance associated with exposure to cannabis.
- 2023 findings: Increased risk of stroke (42%) and heart attacks (25%) in healthy users.
WCC’s 3-pillar strategy: How SA can fight back
- Prayer & spiritual armor
- Nationwide prayer chains this Easter Sunday
- Nationwise churches — among them Archbishop Abraham Sibiya’s led Christ Centred Church, Jehovah Rapha Ministry in Brakpan under the stewardship of Apostle Noma Ndabula, Apostle Vusi Radebe of Breakthrough Family Ministry in Leondale and Bishop Edward Mahlakgane of Family Worship Centre Cathedral in Mokopane, Limpopo — to integrate anti-drug messages into Easter services
- Education & empowerment
- Myth-busting sessions on cannabis “safety”
- Digital literacy campaigns to counter social media glamorisation
- Community mobilisation
- Anti-drug task forces targeting gangsterism and teen suicide
- Lobbying for tougher cannabis ad regulations
Voices from the ground: Teens share their truth
Testimonials from Hoërskool Elspark learners– shared with NOWinSA —reveal growing awareness:
- “Friends say it helps with stress—but I’ve seen it ruin lives.”
- “420 seems fun on social media, but no one posts about panic attacks or failing grades.”
WCC’s response includes peer mentorship programs: Follow WCC on TikTok to find out how you can be part of the solution: https://www.tiktok.com/@worldchangerscandidates
Global warnings: What SA can learn
- Canada: 300% spike in ER visits for cannabis-related psychosis
- USA: More than two-fold increase— 9% in 2000 to 21.5% in 2018—in traffic fatalities post-legalisation in 2018
- Heavy Metals: 2023 marijuana study found lead and mercury in long-term users’ systems
“We must not wait for tragedy to take action,” WCC urges. “This campaign is a lifeline.”
How you can help
WCC calls on South Africans to:
✅ Join local church prayer chain
✅ Share stories on social media using #Fight420SA and #WCCYouthShield #ChangingTheWorldOneSoulAtaTime
✅ Demand stringent regulation on cannabis advertising and organised drug crimes
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