Babalwa Ntwanambi (21) is a proud graduate of the Career Development Programme and Ready to Work course offered at Afrika Tikkun (NPO) where she learned business administration, computer skills and a range of skills and tools to prepare her for the workplace.
“I lost both my parents when I was in grade 7, so I could not sit and complain about not having funds to further my studies. I decided to do something to better my life after Matric and when I heard of the Career Development Programme at Afrika Tikkun, I decided to register” says Babalwa. This was a decision that opened a life-changing opportunity for her.
Upon completion of the course, Babalwa decided to volunteer at the Child and Youth Development programme, one of Afrika Tikkun’s programmes, to gain work experience and put the skills she learned into practice. In March 2017, Babalwa was then placed on a six month work experience contract as a HR intern at The Crazy Store in Epping, Cape Town. In July 2018, she was permanently appointed in her role.
Farinaas Van Rheede, HR manager at The Crazy Store, shares on Babalwa’s appointment; “We needed extra hands in our department; someone who pays attention to detail and has the right attitude. After the interviews, I felt Babalwa was the best candidate for the job and she has not disappointed me since”.
‘BB’ as she’s now dearly addressed by her new colleagues, says she enjoys her new workplace and role, but most importantly, she enjoys working with her team, “they are very supportive and friendly, I am free to ask any questions and I feel valued here. My most memorable moment here is when they made my 21st birthday so special! I am very grateful”.
From having very limited computer skills, no job and no guarantee of any further studying due to lack of funds, to having a job Babalwa enjoys and great colleagues, Babalwa’s life has truly changed for the better. This is the very reason Afrika Tikkun exists; to enable young people to become economically empowered.