The Beacon of Light Oasis Community Centre recently hosted a successful career fair aimed at guiding young people, especially matric learners, as they prepare for life after school.

The event brought together a range of organisations and industry representatives to provide learners with practical information, advice and much-needed inspiration.

Many young people face uncertainty when deciding on their future paths, particularly at this crucial time of the year.

Programme leader, Leo Kirsten, explained the motivation behind the event: “We were inspired by what we see in our community every day. Many young people, especially matric learners, feel uncertain about their next steps after school.

“This time of the year is critical for decision-making, and we wanted to create a space where they can gain clarity, ask questions and be exposed to real opportunities. It’s about giving them direction at the right time.”

Organisers carefully selected participating organisations to ensure a meaningful experience for learners. A variety of industries were represented, focusing on both current job opportunities and future growth sectors.

Partners included the Skill Compliance Institute, led by Adeline Singh, and Shanwes Learning & Development Academy (SLDA), represented by Shannon Davids, among others committed to skills development and youth empowerment.

Kirsten added: “We were very intentional in our approach. It was important that everyone involved adds real value to the learners.”

The career fair also reflects the broader mission of the centre, which is to uplift and develop young people in the South of Johannesburg. Through training, development programmes, and ongoing support, the centre aims to help youth become active and successful contributors to society.

Kirsten highlighted this vision, saying: “This event is closely aligned with our mission. It’s not just about hosting an event – it’s about creating real impact by equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence they need to move forward. We bring hope.”

Following the success of the event, the centre plans to make the career fair an annual initiative. There are also plans to expand its impact through workshops, mentorship programmes, an aftercare centre, and continued support for learners.

The organisation hopes to partner with more schools in the future to reach even more learners across the South of Johannesburg. “Our goal is not just to inspire for one day, but to create lasting opportunities and pathways for young people in our community,” Kirsten added.

The Beacon of Light Oasis invites everyone to get involved. If you would like to join or support the centre in bringing hope to the youth of South Johannesburg, please contact the programme leader, Leo Kirsten, on 061 907 4778 or email beaconoflightoasis@gmail.com

Thank you

The Beacon of Light Oasis Community Centre expressed its gratitude to all strategic partners who contributed to the event’s success, including Forest Hill High, Mondeor SAPS, CPS Security, SA Rangers, Ligbaken Gemeente Oakdene, South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LG SETA), Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EW SETA), Skills Compliance Institute, SLDA Training & Development, Ekurhuleni Jewellery Project, JKA Karate Mondeor, iCreativate, CCC Media, STINT and Caxton Media.