Curious faces, excited questions and moments of real inspiration filled the hall at Meridian Cosmo City when learners attended a hands-on career expo made possible by the youth-focused organisation AfterSkoolisLit. AfterSkoolisLit brought in a full line-up of professionals to help learners understand the pathways open to them after school.

Read more: The Rocking Future Career Expo inspires Delta Park High School

From the start, MC Philemon Opoku Antwi set a lively tone, encouraging learners to listen, ask questions and imagine themselves in different careers.

One of the first speakers, Palesa May from Lyceum College, reminded learners that opportunities are more accessible than they may think. “There are many different opportunities to learn at our college, and the best part is that it’s online,” she said, reassuring learners who may face financial or travel barriers.

Also read: 3RCs Rocking Future Career Expo visits Newton House School

Excitement grew when the EMS team, Pamela Manzini, Tlou Mothemane and Shimmer Ledwaba, stepped forward in full uniform. They explained why firefighters are vital to community safety and demonstrated how their protective suits are worn, piece by piece. Learners leaned forward, eager to see what it truly takes to work in emergency services.

Medical doctor Dr Lesego Mawela delivered a message that clearly resonated with the crowd. She told them, “Only you can be the driver of your own future, so it is important to believe in yourself and be resilient.” Several learners nodded along, some whispering that they felt motivated to think more seriously about their goals.

The reality of choices also came into focus when Officer Shabi Sepotokele from the JMPD addressed the group. Her message was firm: “Don’t smoke, and don’t do drugs, because if you do, I will find you and arrest you.” Her direct approach sparked conversations among learners about peer pressure and staying on the right path.

Legal professionals Mzoxolo Nhonho and Busi Tlatsi from ENS Attorneys helped learners understand how the legal world works. They explained the journey to becoming a lawyer and the importance of discipline, ethics and dedication.

Throughout the event, AfterSkoolisLit staff moved between groups, guiding learners, answering questions and encouraging them to dream bigger. The organisation said its goal is to expose young people to real professions, not just what they see on social media or television.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Firefighter Pamela Manzini, of the City of Johannesburg EMS, shares vital information about safety and the important work they do. Video: Nkazimulo Ncube #Randburg #EMS ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

By the time the expo ended, many learners said they felt clearer and more confident about their future choices. Teachers added that the day left a noticeable sense of excitement in the school corridors, as learners continued discussing careers they had never considered before.

AfterSkoolisLit hopes to return with more programmes that connect young people to real opportunities, and for many learners at Meridian Cosmo City, this expo may have been the moment that sparked a new dream.

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