Ambassadors celebrate job offers after skills training

A group of young people from Ward 110 are celebrating new opportunities after completing a three-month skills training programme, with 22 of the 25 participants securing job offers.

The Youth Ambassador Awards ceremony, held at the Retreat Civic Centre on Friday, June 20, marked the conclusion of the initiative that aimed to empower youth through practical work and computer skills.

Councillor Shanen Rossouw said this year’s programme was different: “Every year we offer skills training, but this time we partnered with key stakeholders, including WPDI (Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative), to create actual job opportunities.”

The WPDI - a non-profit founded by actor Forest Whitaker—operates in Cape Town, promoting social cohesion, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. The organisation provided computer training to the participants.

“It’s wonderful to see WPDI’s involvement in equipping our youth with digital skills,” said Ms Rossouw. She added that local community leaders (mentors) were also empowered, receiving stipends to mentor participants throughout the programme.

The skills training focused on work readiness and basic computer literacy. Community leaders and  mentors included Greg Philander, Bradwin Daniels, Bradley Williams, Sheila Leucas, Donnè Williams and Zelna Fouten.

Tamryn De Long, 24, from Lavender Hill, completed both the work skills and computer literacy courses. “The course helped me realise where I was going wrong and allowed me to grow personally. I’ve since been offered a job as an educator’s assistant at Sullivan Primary,” she said.

Sage Palmer, 19, from Cafda, said: “Three months ago, I joined the programme to enhance my skills. It was enjoyable and gave me the tools I need to pursue my dream of becoming an IT technician. I received two awards—for completing the computer course and the full youth programme.” She also said she had been offered the opportunity to study coding through WPDI and is awaiting final details.

Tristan Baartman, 19, from Lavender Hill, said the programme taught him essential workplace skills. “We learnt about work ethics, how to prepare for interviews, and general job readiness. It helped me a lot,” he said. He is currently job hunting.

Community mentor and actor Bradley Williams said he used drama and storytelling during the sessions to highlight real-life challenges such as gender-based violence, mental health, and suicide. “I created skits based on issues young people face. It was a way to start meaningful conversations,” he said.

The initiative not only provided skills and mentorship but also sparked hope and opened doors for a brighter future.