YDE Lumen30 tackles youth unemployment and energy insecurity in Alexandra
The launch of the YDE Lumen30 project marks a critical step in youth empowerment through skills development and training.
A renewable energy, independent power producer, Yellow Door Energy, in partnership with a charitable foundation, Actis Acts, launched YDE Lumen30 to tackle youth unemployment and energy insecurity in Alexandra.
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The first phase of the project began on April 25. 30 young people from Alexandra were selected to undergo intensive training in solar photovoltaic technology over three months. Upon completion, the participants will write a final assessment to evaluate their technical knowledge. This programme, managed by DevRani Consult and implemented by Unnati Training Academy, aims to equip trainees with technical expertise, in order for them to enter South Africa’s renewable energy sector.
In phase 2 of the project, a solar power plant will be installed at a local community centre in Alexandra at no cost, providing reliable electricity to the facility that serves the community.
Talking about the project, the CEO of Yellow Door Energy South Africa, Forbes Padayachee, emphasised the impact of the project on the community. “This project addresses the unemployment problem facing youth in Johannesburg, and tackles the energy resilience issues affecting South African townships. Today, we are proud to launch phase 1 of the initiative alongside our esteemed partners.”
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Founder and CEO of DevRani Consult Ugeshree Thakurpersad said they are delighted to partner with YDE to drive meaningful socioeconomic transformation through YDE Lumen30. “This initiative is about more than training; it is about building a sustainable future and unlocking opportunities for our youth to shape the energy landscape of tomorrow.”
For Brian Chinappi, chairperson of Actis Acts and head of real estate at Actis, this project is exciting because it aligns with their foundation’s passion to invest in a more sustainable future, while empowering people. “We are giving 30 young individuals skills and opportunities for a future in the renewable sector. Helping them take charge of their careers while contributing to the clean energy transition. It’s initiatives like this that truly make a difference and we are proud to be part of it.”
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