Tsakani – The LRCC Church in Tsakani held a marketplace youth development workshop on June 6, attended by hundreds of young people from across the area.

Supporting the event were various stakeholders, including Ekurhuleni East and West TVET colleges and Gert Sibande TVET College.

Speaking to the African Reporter, event organiser Boitumelo Magagula said the event aimed to create a platform where young people can access information, guidance, and opportunities that serve as stepping stones toward their future endeavours.

She said the main objective of the workshop was to empower young people with the knowledge, guidance, and tools needed to make informed decisions about their studies, career paths, and institutions of higher learning and training.

Magagula added that the workshop also addressed challenges such as limited access to career information, uncertainty about study options, unemployment, lack of exposure to entrepreneurship opportunities, and the need for practical guidance on preparing for the world of work.

She shared that higher learning institutions were part of the event because they are the primary providers of academic support, skills training and development opportunities in the country.

“Not every learner will follow the same path, and it is important for young people to understand the various opportunities available to them so they can choose the route best suited to their goals and abilities,” said Magagula.

Magagula explained that the attendees gained access to information about study programmes, bursaries, skills development initiatives, entrepreneurship support programmes, career guidance resources and networking opportunities with institutions and industry representatives.

She highlighted the importance of career guidance and skills development, as many young people have potential but lack access to information, mentorship and exposure to opportunities.

She added that proper guidance helps them make informed decisions, while skills development improves their employability and ability to create opportunities for themselves.

With a high youth unemployment rate in the country, Magagula expressed that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool in addressing youth unemployment because it encourages young people to become job creators rather than only job seekers.

“It equips them with the mindset and practical skills needed to start businesses, solve community challenges and contribute to economic growth,” she said.

Magagula indicated that the church aims to make the workshop a recurring initiative, as they believe there is a growing need for platforms that empower young people and are committed to expanding the programme and its impact in the future.

One of the attendees from Brakpan, Lazola Jele, shared that she came to the workshop to find more alternatives for career choices.

“Since I am in Grade 10 and just started with the subjects that I chose, I am here to see if I am heading in the right direction. I want to study law, but anything can happen, and I might end up in science,” shared Jele.

Jele advised the youth to attend workshops and career expos because they are helpful in career guidance and choosing the right institutions of learning.

“If you do not want to study after matric, do your research and find out what is aligned with your subject choice and ask the teachers for help too,” she concluded.

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