Feeling like a rudderless boat in a vast sea of unattainable goals, Brakpan resident Kholiwe Mbyuisa felt the grip of poverty tightening around her.

In search of a solution that could offer personal growth and a path to employment, Kholiwe pinned her final hopes on Kids Haven’s Pathways Programme.

She joined the 12-week youth development programme in 2023, hesitant but determined. Her only prayer was to rise above her circumstances and explore career paths that once felt out of reach.

On July 24, dressed in a yellow shirt that made her resemble a blooming sunflower, Kholiwe welcomed corporate guests to Kids Haven’s Cranbourne Avenue facility. The occasion aimed to garner support for a programme that equips vulnerable youth with essential work experience and builds connections with potential employers.

“At Kids Haven we walk the walk,” said programme coordinator Ilke Stein.

“Kholiwe showed a natural talent for administrative and frontline duties. During her learnership, when one of our receptionists fell ill, she stepped in without hesitation. She was so well-suited to the role that no one noticed any disruption in operations.”

Now working in the fundraising department at Kids Haven’s Bryanston office, Kholiwe is also completing a related degree.

“Where there was once no hope, this programme helped me unlock my confidence and potential. It allowed me to spread my wings and break free from the shackles that once held me back,” she said with pride.

She urged the visiting corporates to support the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for change.

“With so many corporates present, I implore you to partner with this programme. It creates ripples of opportunity for others who dream of following in our footsteps.”

Her moving words drew heartfelt applause. As eyes turned to the other yellow-shirted youths, there was a shared recognition of the drive and hunger for success reflected in their faces.

“Through our programme, we aim to tap into social capital,” said Stein.

“We want to build networks that open doors for young people, whether through career guidance, job shadowing, mentoring, internships or job placements. We offer a wraparound approach, including counselling and guidance, and we treat every youth’s expectations both holistically and realistically.

“We’re not here to provide cookie-cutter solutions. We take time to understand each young person’s strengths and align them with the opportunities that best suit them.”

Dylan Petzer, national vice-chairperson of the Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA), a member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), took the podium to announce the organisation’s commitment to partnering with Kids Haven.

“As corporates, we have the power to help guide youth into adulthood,” he said. “This is our opportunity to build futures. All that’s needed is the willingness to invest in them and help unlock their potential.”

Ways to get involved in the Pathways Programme include:
• Job shadowing: Provide industry exposure to help young people visualise career paths.

• Internships: Offer short- to medium-term placements. Kids Haven will cover initial stipends and transport.

• Learnerships: Deliver accredited training that builds skills and opens doors to employment.

• Entry-level placements: Access a pool of well-supported, motivated candidates who have been screened and matched.

• Mentorship and soft skills training: Share your time and expertise to inspire the next generation.

• Career expos: Help teenagers make informed subject and career choices.

• Entrepreneurial experience: Partner with young entrepreneurs through hands-on projects that foster creativity and self-reliance.

For more information about the programme, email youth@kidshaven.co.za or reception@kidshaven.co.za

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