Workshop to empower ex-convicts

Kwa- Thema – Former convicts from Kwatsaduza attended an International Labour Organisation’s Start and Improve Your Business workshop hosted by Destiny Break Southern Africa at the Kwa-Thema Police Station last Friday.
The initiative is aimed at empowering ex-convicts and inmates who are left with six months to complete their sentence through entrepreneurial education and mentorship.

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Facilitator Lebohang Tshabalala said the programme is divided into two phases. The first one is carried out while inmates are behind bars and the second one when they are outside.
“The second phase of the training is based on life skills, digital skills and integrating ex-convicts back in the community.
“It also links them with business and funding opportunities.
“We want to see them living a crime-free life and also have the ability to financially support their families and mentor other youngsters,” she explained.
South Africa has a high rate of unemployment, making it difficult for inmates to be employed.
The organisation saw it necessary to intervene and equip them with business skills and resources to start, grow or expand their businesses to financially support their families and break the cycle of crime.

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One of the attendees, Lloyd Dladla, said the workshop has equipped him with skills to grow his small business.
“After I was released in January, I decided to use my disability grant to start my small business of selling perfumes and handbags.
“I am using the profits to grow the business to greater heights.
“This will help me to sustain myself and my family,” he said.

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