The Rocking Future Career Expo wrapped up its 2026 Ekurhuleni tour with a vibrant exhibition at Crystal Park High School on May 22.

It provided matric learners with valuable insight into their future study and career opportunities.

The school’s Grade 11 learners attended the expo in large numbers as tertiary institutions showcased a variety of programmes, qualifications and training opportunities available after high school.

Founded 25 years ago by Kay Cheynatov through her 3RC initiative, the Rocking Future Career Expo aims to help learners make informed decisions about their futures while exposing them to a wide range of career paths.

“These expos create impactful moments where passion meets purpose. Learners walk away inspired, informed and excited about their futures instead of anxious and uncertain,” said Cheynatov.

“We provide institutions that cover every direction – from arts and business to IT and agriculture. We also bring specialist colleges like Animation School, as well as institutions like STADIO, where students can study anything from teaching to law.”

Cheynatov said one of the main goals of the expo is to show learners there are alternatives to traditional universities.

“By presenting learners with a variety of private tertiary institutions, we remove many of the barriers they face when applying for state university placements. These institutions offer accredited qualifications, skills development courses and degrees all the way up to master’s level,” she explained.

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She added that many of the institutions represented are internationally accredited and focus strongly on preparing students for the workplace.

“Students are introduced to potential employers during their studies and complete practical training within companies. This improves their work readiness and helps them succeed in their chosen careers.”

A former musician, Cheynatov launched the initiative in 2001 as a way of motivating and empowering South African youth.

“My dream has always been to motivate, educate and inspire young people. Over the years, we have evolved by introducing young MCs, multimedia presentations and youth brands that connect with learners on their level,” she said.

Reflecting on the initiative’s growth, Cheynatov said it is rewarding to see how far former attendees have come.

“It is incredible to think that the matric students we met during our first year are now professionals and parents themselves. The strong relationships we have built with schools are the reason we continue to grow and innovate.”

This year, the expo visited 136 schools across Gauteng and engaged with more than 18 000 learners, including students from St Francis College in Western Extension.

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