GIVING back to communities is not just a slogan, but a way of life for the Merebank Residents’ Association (MRA).

The association has started an initiative to help young and unemployed residents build skills and improve their chances of finding meaningful work.

Spokesperson for the association, Shaun Chandran, said they have launched a youth development and corporate engagement initiative.

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“The MRA is proud to announce an exciting youth recruitment and development initiative aimed at empowering young people within the Merebank and greater Durban South Basin community,” said Chandran.

The initiative seeks to identify passionate, community-driven youth in the community.

“We are looking for youth who are ambitious, especially those who are not active in community-based organisations, and provide them with structured opportunities to engage directly with corporate entities for skills development, mentorship, entrepreneurship support, and potential job creation,” he said.

At the heart of the programme is a commitment to uplifting fence line communities, residents living closest to industrial and corporate operations.

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“The programme seeks to ensure that the local youth benefit meaningfully from corporate social investment initiatives within their own communities. Selected youth participants will take part in structured brainstorming and innovation sessions facilitated by MRA. During these sessions, young people will be encouraged to present their own ideas, concepts, and community-focused solutions,” said Chandran.

He said the association will work alongside the youth teams to develop viable financial and implementation models.

He said these concepts will then be presented to corporate partners within the Durban South Basin for:

• Sponsorship,
• Mentorship.
• Collaboration opportunities.

“This process aims to equip the youth with practical skills in project development and professional engagement. It also seeks to provide real exposure to corporate environment, create pathways into skills development programmes and employment opportunities. It will strengthen relationships between corporates and local fence line communities,” said Chandran.

Through this initiative, the MRA seeks to reshape the way corporate organisations engage with surrounding communities.

“Participation in the programme will also add significant weight to young people’s resumes, showcasing real-world experience in community leadership, corporate collaboration, and project implementation. We invite motivated youth from the Merebank area to step forward, share their ideas, and become part of a structured movement focused on growth, empowerment, and opportunity,” he added.

For more information regarding recruitment dates, brainstorming sessions, and applications contact Shaun via WhatsApp on 081 728 4748.

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