Funda centre celebrates 13 years with career expo for Soweto youth
In partnership with Black Child Rise, TCFD, and iLAB Foundation, the event aimed to empower young people with skills development and career guidance for enhanced employability in various sectors.
Funda Community Training Centre celebrated its 13th anniversary with a career expo in collaboration with Black Child Rise, The Collective Fashion Design School (TCFD), and iLAB Foundation.
The event, held on June 13 at Funda Centre in Diepkloof Zone 6, aimed to empower young people by offering skills development and career guidance.
With Funda Centre providing short courses in various fields, the expo encouraged youth to enrol in programmes that enhance employability.
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Josias Maphomola, marketing manager at Funda Centre, highlighted that some students have already secured bursaries, gained entry to higher education institutions, or found employment through the skills acquired at the centre.
Thabiso Tsotetsi, CEO and founder of Black Child Rise, said: “Our goal is to empower the black child.
We offer training in the RE5 qualification, and once students pass, we assist them in finding employment. Since January 2025, we have helped 60 students, enabling them to pursue careers as financial advisors, brokers, or in banking and other sectors.”
Thato Moteka, CEO of iLAB Foundation, added: “We started at Funda Centre to change the narrative for young people, recognising that many families cannot afford formal opportunities.
“We’ve had 248 graduates so far, including 18 from Diepkloof Hostel, some of whom progressed to university. We offer training in digital and creative skills, and we will launch our Culinary Arts Programme in July 2025.”
Maki Dikgole, CEO of TCFD, said that after 48 years in the fashion industry, she is now committed to passing on her skills and knowledge.
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“We want youth to understand the importance of producing high-quality garments in South Africa. Our graduates are expected to establish their own mini factories to keep that standard alive.”
The youth of Soweto are encouraged to visit Funda Centre regularly to explore career options, build valuable skills, and realise their potential.
