In a groundbreaking move to combat underage drinking, AWARE.org is bringing the fight to the digital playground with the launch of Roblox: Party in Your Pocket. With nearly half (49.2%) of South African high school students having consumed alcohol, this innovative, proudly South African game is reshaping how families and teens engage with this critical issue—turning uncomfortable conversations into a fun, relatable, and transformative experience.
Building on the success of its first version earlier this year, AWARE.org is elevating its efforts with an enhanced edition of Roblox: Party in Your Pocket. This innovative platform fuses education with entertainment, providing a safe and interactive environment for addressing the dangers of underage drinking, especially during the notorious "pens down" period after exams.
“Underage drinking is a significant challenge, and traditional methods alone are not enough to combat it. By meeting teenagers where they are—in the digital world—we aim to make an impact in a manner that is engaging and relatable,” says Mokebe Thulo, CEO of AWARE.org. “This game allows young players to virtually experience the effects of underage drinking in a safe environment, encouraging them to make informed decisions while empowering families to start necessary and meaningful, albeit uncomfortable, conversations about alcohol consumption.”
The game, designed in collaboration with Brand South Africa, is proudly South African, reflecting the values of innovation and resilience. “This partnership aims to lift the spirit of our nation by inspiring all South Africans to contribute to positive change, become involved and start doing - because a nation of people who care deeply for one another and the environment in which they live is good for everyone.
Kutullo Matloga from Brand South Africa. Roblox: Party in Your Pocket is not only a game but also a call to action for families, schools, and communities to rise together against underage drinking.”
Incorporating confidence-boosting messages such as Be Bold, Speak Up, Rise Up, the game is designed to immerse players in scenarios that highlight the consequences of underage drinking. By simulating these experiences, the virtual world acts as an impactful tool to encourage behavioural change.
More than just a game, Roblox: Party in Your Pocket is a family-oriented initiative, fostering interaction and dialogue between parents and teens in a fun, safe, and accessible format. It serves as a catalyst for empowering families to make informed decisions and to encourage young people to think critically about their choices.
AWARE.org continues to take an innovative approach to harm reduction, leveraging technology to create social impact. Together with Brand South Africa, the organisation is committed to creating safer communities by addressing one of the most pressing issues faced by South African youth today.
So grab the youth gamers in your life, and encourage them to join us in Roblox: Party in Your Pocket challenge. Together, we can save the day and build a brighter, sober future for all!
Roblox: Party in Your Pocket exemplifies how technology and innovation can address pressing social issues like underage drinking. By blending entertainment with education, AWARE.org and Brand South Africa are empowering families and communities to create safer, healthier futures. Dive into the challenge, engage the youth, and join the movement towards a brighter, sober South Africa.
