By Lebohang Matlhare
The Zodwa Khoza Foundation proudly hosted the celebration of the achievements of 90 Yes4Youth program graduates on December 13th, 2024. These young individuals have completed training in Solar Installation, Information Technology, and Culinary Skills – marking the culmination of months of hard work, resilience, and commitment to building a brighter future.
The graduation ceremony was held at the Zodwa Khoza Foundation Skills and Entrepreneurial Development Centre. It was a joyous occasion, filled with inspiring speeches, heartfelt congratulations, and a shared sense of accomplishment. Families, Foundation partners, and facilitators joined in to honour the graduates’ remarkable journey.
The Yes4Youth program, is a private sector led initiative designed to address youth unemployment by providing practical skills and hands-on training.
This year’s cohort gained expertise in:
· Solar Installation: Preparing participants to meet the growing demand for renewable energy solutions.
· Information Technology: Equipping youth with skills in computer literacy, programming, and technical support.
· Culinary Arts: Teaching participants food preparation, hygiene. and the business of hospitality.
The training program also incorporated life skills workshops to build confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities essential for navigating the challenges of today’s workforce.
For many of the graduates, the program was transformative. Simphiwe, a graduate of the Information Technology course, shared: “Before this program, I didn’t think I had a future. Now, I have a skill that not only makes me employable but also allows me to take the skills I have learnt and apply them.”
Another graduate, from the Culinary Skills course, expressed her gratitude: “Learning culinary skills has opened doors for me. I’ve always loved cooking, and now I can turn my passion into a career. This is just the beginning.”
During the ceremony, Ms. Sonono Khoza emphasised the importance of partnerships in making this program a reality: “None of this would be possible without the support of our incredible partners. Together, we are empowering youth to build meaningful futures, not just for themselves but for their families and communities.”
The event also served as a platform to call for further collaboration from the private sector by the initiative. Speaking briefly to Ms. Khoza, she urged businesses to invest in similar initiatives, highlighting the dual benefits of addressing youth unemployment while nurturing a skilled workforce.
The graduates are now equipped to take their next steps, whether through employment, entrepreneurship, or further training. However, the work doesn’t end here. The Foundation remains committed to supporting these young individuals as they transition into their chosen paths.
The success of the Yes4Youth program is a testament to what can be achieved when communities, organisations, and individuals come together with a shared vision .As 2025 approaches, the Zodwa Khoza Foundation plans to expand its skills development initiatives, ensuring that even more young South Africans have access to opportunities that empower and uplift. The Foundation invites potential partners to join this mission, creating a ripple effect of change across communities.
*** This article was first published by “The Catalyst – Volume 1, Issue 7”. This is the official newsletter of the Zodwa Khoza Foundation ***