Hi Chomas!, let’s talk about something real that’s happening in Mzansi – underage drinking. We all know the vibe, kuyaphuzwa (there’s lots of drinking) out here! But there’s an issue that needs to be addressed – young people, just like you, drinking alcohol before they turn 18.

It’s happening more often than you think. By the time most teens turn 13, a lot of them have already had their first drink, and that’s not okay. A recent study showed that more than a third of high school students had alcohol in the last month, and some of them were binge drinking – that’s drinking a lot in one go.

Why is this happening?

A big reason is peer pressure and the social life around you. In Mzansi, alcohol is part of almost every event – family gatherings, parties, you name it. It’s all over. That makes some teens feel like they must drink to fit in with their friends or just because they’re curious to see what it’s all about.

And let’s be honest – even though it’s illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under 18, we all know how easy it is to get your hands on it. Whether it’s from the corner shebeen, unlicensed sellers, or even through older friends and family members, alcohol is within reach for too many young people.

Many teens also drink to cope with stress or tough situations they face at home like poverty, unemployment, or even abuse. But Choma, alcohol isn’t the way out. Drinking won’t fix the chaos in your life. Instead, try finding positive social circles, support groups, or platforms like Choma to help you through tough times.

The thing is drinking can mess with your schoolwork big time. It’s hard to stay focused on your books when you’re hungover or distracted, and that can make your grades drop, even if you’re usually on top of things. Some even end up dropping out of school altogether. Remember, education is your key to a brighter future, and we need to keep those doors open.

Need advice or help,? you can contact me here on Ask Choma, or send me a Facebook message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp message (071 172 3657).