Introduction
Mpumalanga grapples with high unemployment rates, particularly among its youth population. With limited access to job opportunities and economic resources, many young people find themselves unemployed or underemployed, hindering their ability to contribute to the local economy and support themselves and their families. Social employment programmes like the SEF play a crucial role in addressing this challenge by providing opportunities for skill development, job training, and meaningful employment. By empowering people like Happiness Itumeleng Letshele through initiatives like Afrika Tikkun’s community engagement programme, unemployment is addressed while fostering personal growth, community development, and economic resilience.
About Afrika Tikkun Services
Established in 1994, Afrika Tikkun NPC is a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of young community members in South Africa. Through their 360° Cradle-to-Career Programme, Afrika Tikkun addresses the health, education, and future wellbeing of impoverished youth, offering practical and accessible developmental initiatives at every stage of their growth journey.
Witbank, Mpumalanga
Happiness Itumeleng Letshele, a 21-year-old resident of Witbank, Mpumalanga, found purpose and opportunity through Afrika Tikkun’s programme. After completing matric in 2021, she was unable to find work . Volunteering at Fruits of Love pre-school in Emalahleni Phase 4, Happiness embraced various responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning, administrative tasks, and supporting teachers. She actively engages in teaching children, using interactive methods like songs and games to make learning enjoyable and effective. Happiness’s commitment to the children’s development reflects the transformative impact of community engagement facilitated by Afrika Tikkun.
Soft skills matter
Soft skills such as dignity, confidence, and security play a crucial role in Happiness’s journey and highlight their importance in creating better employees and a stronger workforce. Through her experience at Fruits of Love Pre-school, Happiness not only enhances her skills and knowledge but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the children she nurtures. Soft skills like dignity enable her to approach her responsibilities with respect and professionalism, while confidence empowers her to take on new challenges and initiatives. Security, both emotional and economic, provides Happiness with stability and resilience, allowing her to thrive in her role as a community volunteer. By fostering these soft skills, Afrika Tikkun equips youth like Happiness with the tools they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives, ultimately contributing to the holistic development of South African communities.
Conclusion
Happiness Itumeleng Letshele’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of community engagement facilitated by strategic implantation partners (SIPs) like Afrika Tikkun. Through her dedication and the support provided by the organisation, Happiness not only enhances her skills and knowledge but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the children she nurtures. The importance of soft skill development, including dignity, confidence, and security, becomes evident in her story, underscoring their role in creating better employees and a stronger workforce. As Afrika Tikkun continues its mission to empower youth and transform communities, stories like Happiness’s serve as powerful reminders of the profound impact of investing in holistic development initiatives. Through partnerships, practical interventions, and a commitment to creating sustainable pathways, the SEF is poised to continue making a positive difference in the lives of more young South Africans.
