Young people in different spaces
| June 2022 |
As this month of June, traditionally known as Youth month in South Africa moves forward, the country’s youth unemployment rate sits at a staggering 63.9% for the first quarter of 2022, as communicated by Statistics South Africa (StatsSA). This figure necessitates that we all, in our various capacity as government, business, civil society or residents, reflect on what our role is, as both individuals and a collective to tackle this scourge. This issue thrusts the youth unemployment challenge into the spotlight and flies the flag on "young people in different spaces", offering a glimmer of hope to those who cannot see some light in their respective corners. We celebrate the young people of this country, saying we "believe in you", "we support you in many ways" and "forward is the only option available ".
This issue will cast a spotlight on the various Barloworld Siyakhula beneficiary companies which are youth led, youth founded, and youth managed. The issue, which is a nod to young people who are entrepreneurs and workers alike, will delve into what Barloworld Equipment is doing through its Strategic Sourcing function in collaboration with Siyakhula in closing the gap caused by the youth unemployment rate.
The issue will also highlight the achievements of young people in the business and sports world, with a particular young man making waves in the Sports fraternity, Alwande Sikhosana and others making waves in their businesses as young entrepreneurs. There are also useful articles about what Harambee, the Youth Employment Accelerator has instituted to support young people that are unemployed, and we receive sound advice from the Head of Marketing Retail Savings and Income for Old Mutual, Marius Pretorius, who gives young people tips on “making your money to work for you from a young age”.
In our excitement, we announce plans which are afoot for our annual Barloworld Siyakhula Summit, which will bring all Siyakhula beneficiaries under one roof for networking opportunities, skills development sessions and exhibition stands. The Summit is scheduled to take place at the end of July or the beginning of August, with key details such as the invitations and additional details going out soon to all beneficiaries and key stakeholders of Siyakhula. We look forward to seeing you there.
All the best,
Prudence Gololo