As an extension of its successful Pathways Programme, Kids Haven is launching a Hustling Academy.
The 12-week youth development programme, established in 2023, aims to build networks that open doors for young people through career guidance, job shadowing, mentoring, internships, or job placements.

The Pathways Programme further includes counselling and guidance, where every participant’s expectations are holistically and realistically addressed, thus giving them a strong foundation for pursuing gainful employment, which has the potential to change the trajectory of their lives.

Through the Hustling Academy, Pathways alumni who, for various reasons, may struggle to secure job opportunities will be able to step in and gain practical experience that could help them create opportunities of their own.

According to programme coordinator Ilke Stein, Kids Haven is a regular recipient of furniture, which is then sold at its charity shop to supplement ongoing fundraising efforts.

“The Hustling Academy aims to teach participants woodworking and textile skills, which can be used to upcycle furniture donations,” she said.

“The programme is dual-purposed. By selling upcycled goods, our income stream could be increased while equipping eager learners with valuable skills which could result in future entrepreneurial opportunities.”

Stein is appealing to anyone with these skills and spare time to put their hands up to help impart their knowledge.

“Financially, we are not able to pay for time, but we might be able to offer some compensation,” she said.

“Our community boasts a wide variety of creatives. We are appealing to those willing to share their skill sets with youth desperate to forge their futures.”

For more information or to get involved, contact Stein on 011 421 4222 or email : youth@kidshaven.co.za or hello@kidshaven.co.za

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