As part of Kids Haven’s 12-week Pathways Programme, four of its participants are standing on the cusp of stepping into their futures, yet finances threaten to derail their dreams.

The youth development programme, established in 2023, builds networks that open doors for young people through career guidance, job shadowing, mentoring, internships or job placements.

It includes counselling and guidance, where every participant’s expectations are addressed holistically and realistically, giving them a strong foundation to pursue gainful employment, with the potential to change the trajectory of their lives.

Using their newfound knowledge and confidence, four Pathways alumni, interested in pursuing careers in information technology, have taken the leap, resulting in their acceptance to the Maharishi Invincibility Institute (MII), an accredited and registered South African skills-to-work educational institution and NPO based in Johannesburg.

MII’s uniqueness lies in its demand and industry-driven approach, with a 95% job placement rate.
All academies are preceded by the one-year Foundation Programme, where Makgotso Vilakazi, Sinazo Yekela, Mbalenhle Lungile Mtshali and Andzane Chauke’s journey will begin in August.

The only thing standing in their way of stepping onto campus is R24 000 per student for the next 12 months.

“These determined youths not only applied for higher learning, but they also put their communication skills to the test during the interview phase and got accepted,” said Pathways programme coordinator Ilke Stein.

“They didn’t get there by luck. They got here through showing up for themselves and the programme, committing to putting in the effort every day to become better equipped to go toe-to-toe with the world.

“All they need now is for the community to invest in their dreams of building a brighter future. They need a hand-up so that they can focus on their studies, knowing that money matters have been taken care of.”

Stein explained that the quartet of ambitious learners have committed R200 each per month, as well as covering the cost of their own food, to ensure they are able to attend classes daily.

“Donations towards these exceptional youths’ studies will assist in providing reliable transport to campus or, better yet, securing safe accommodation nearby, thus eliminating the daily commute,” said Stein.

“For a Pathways graduate, the gap between affording transport or accommodation is often the difference between completing a qualification or having to quietly drop out a few months in.”

Dreams becoming a reality

For Makgotso, this is an opportunity of a lifetime.

“This is a chance to change my future through education. I have a strong interest in technology and software development, and I want to build the skills needed to succeed in the industry,” she said.

Sinazo, a 23-year-old woman, said she dreams of building solutions within the software development industry that will improve lives.
“I want to be financially independent, support my family and continue growing within the field.”

Mbalenhle said she is determined to use the opportunity to further expand her horizons despite her background.

“I feel inspired. The institute has acknowledged my potential, and I will work hard to make a success of this,” she said.

Twenty-year-old Andzane already has great dreams of becoming a skilled developer and entrepreneur.

“I want to run my own IT company that delivers innovative technology solutions to address real-world problems,” he said.

How you can help

Individuals and businesses are urged to help these dedicated youths unlock their full potential.

“This is a great opportunity for tech companies to forge a partnership beyond a donation,” said Stein.

“These students can be onboarded as part-time workers, assisting with data capturing, IT support or junior administration, giving them a chance to gain industry experience in return for financial support. Workplace exposure aligns with the Pathways mission.”

For more information or to pledge your support, contact Stein on 011 421 4222 or email youth@kidshaven.co.za or hello@kidshaven.co.za.

Monetary donations can be made to Nedbank. Branch: 198765. SWIFT: NEDSZAJJ. Account name: Kids Haven NPC ZAR. Account number: 1948 063 824.

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