A non-profit organisation in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality aims to bridge the gap between communities and companies by offering free access to job opportunities.

Growth Point Initiative was started by community members involved in different local structures, including fighting unemployment and driving local economic development.

According to the deputy chairperson of the organisation, Sifiso Klou, existing structures provided some benefits, but often fell short of reaching every community member.

“The core mission of Growth Point Initiative is that traditional employment agencies often charge fees for CV submissions or monthly deductions upon securing a job, which exploits vulnerable jobseekers,” Klou said.

“Our organisation wants to eliminate these barriers, ensuring that communities can benefit without financial strain,” he added.

Digital portal aids jobseekers

Based in Middelburg, Growth Point Initiative has designed a comprehensive digital portal that serves both jobseekers and small businesses.

Klou stated that the portal allows candidates to upload their information, list their skills and attach CVs and certificates.

“Team members assist in grouping workers into categories such as general workers, skilled labour and professionals, making it easier for employers to find the right candidate,” he said.

Companies register their information and compliance documents, and the portal helps local employers screen and source candidates efficiently.

“The platform is free for both jobseekers and partnering businesses. To maximise reach across all 29 local wards, the initiative aims to train local ward representatives to help community members navigate the portal and upload their documents,” Klou said.

Since its launch on October 2 and after a recent Family Fun Day event promoting family values, anti-substance abuse and safe, clean parks, Growth Point Initiative has steadily gained momentum.

“We also want to thank our stakeholders for collaborating with us. These include the Department of Health and local businesses. Our aim is not to generate income, but just to uplift the community,” Klou said.
Resident lands operator contract

Thulani Mabena secured a six-month fixed-term contract as an operator with one of the companies that partners with Growth Point Initiative after successfully using the portal.

“Someone told me there were going to be vacancies, so I should apply on the portal. I did exactly that,” he said.

“Accessing the portal requires mobile data, but the application process itself is straightforward and user-friendly. I went to the link, then onto the portal. I then applied for a job as an operator,” he said.

Mabena added that he uploaded his CV and received a reference number after applying.

Community members can contact Dimpho Mahlangu on 072 662 0574 for more information or access the portal here.