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Training youths for jobs

AT THE HELM: Harambee's youth employment accelerator CEO Tamera Campbell says her group has already aided 2600 applicants Photo: MOHAU MOFOKENG
AT THE HELM: Harambee's youth employment accelerator CEO Tamera Campbell says her group has already aided 2600 applicants Photo: MOHAU MOFOKENG

IT IS difficult for anyone to find a job in South Africa, especially if you are inexperienced or a school leaver with just matric.

The latest studies show that almost three quarters, or 72%, of South Africa's unemployed are under 34 years.

However, there are NGOs that find opportunities for unemployed youth, while Gauteng's government has created several entities to help mitigate the unemployment crisis.

Harambee's youth employment accelerator CEOTamera Campbell told Sowetan her organisation, which was launched in 2011, secures jobs for inexperienced youth.

"We have secured 2600 jobs for young people since our inception in 2011," she said.

Campbell said Harambee was in partnership with many top South African companies such as Hollard, Clientèle, Direct Access, Telesure and Nando's - all under the umbrella of Yellowwoods.

Currently, 27 companies have committed to absorbing the youth into the job market and have signed up with Harambee, paying for this service.

These include Discovery, Outsurance, Pick n Pay, Ster-Kinekor, FNB and Standard Bank.

WHO QUALIFIES?

Those aged 18 to 24 with a matric qualification and eager to work.

A person must have less than a year's work experience or has been stuck in the chain of temporary work.

Harambee reserves the right to discontinue assisting candidates who miss the threshold.

However, these will be absorbed through a newly developed "step up programme" to give them an extra push for a better life.

HOW DO THEY DO IT?

Sourcing, screening and assessment, which includes a myriad of aspects, including psychiatric evaluation.

Harambee profiles top performers in any particular company to ensure that their candidates match those qualities. This ensures that they are able to meet stringent requirements by prospective employers.

Campbell said candidates do not have to worry about taxi fare because they receive a stipend during the period they spend training at Harambee.

"Our fit-for-purpose bridging programmes give our young candidates the confidence, skills and functional behaviour to ensure that they get more than just a job - they get a career," said Campbell.

"There is such a large potential pool out there that is untapped. We want to give young people hope."

Campbell described her organisation as "an employment hub on how to find work and where to find work".

To find out more:

Send an e-mail to info@harambee.co.za or Harambee_ZA on Mixit.

Log on to www.harambee.co.za to register, using your name, identity number, contact and residential details.

The Black African Young Farmer is another organisation that seeks to capacitate young people across the country. It does not only help job seekers but also advocates for the development of youth agricultural projects.

So far, it has identified 12 upcoming farmers in North West, who are working closely with the Department ofAgriculture.

The organisation has already made a presentation to the African Union on food security.

They help anyone who is passionate about agriculture and community development and will arm you with skills, mentorship and training.

For additional information contact Bayofa@gmail.com

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