Author: Marlene Nqumse

Media Release on behalf of Bighearts Africa: Strengthening Our Partnership for Youth Empowerment in 2025

6 May 2025

Reflecting on our successful collaboration in 2023 and 2024, Bighearts Africa is proud of the impact made through the YES Program in various departments of the Garden Routhe District Municipality (GRDM). Successful placements were made in the EPWP, IDP, Traffic, IT, Waste Management, Tourism, and Records departments. With the support of the GRDM, over thirty young individuals gained valuable work experience, setting the stage for a brighter future.

At Bighearts Africa, we believe in the power of opportunity and mentorship to uplift youth and transform communities. Our goal is a future where every young person gains essential work experience and skills.

This success wouldn’t have been possible without Christine de Wet, our dedicated host liaison. A strong host liaison ensures a smooth transition into the workplace. Christine represents everything we value – nurturing connections, fostering collaboration, and offering unwavering support to both youth and hosts. Her leadership has been key in creating lasting opportunities for young people.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are eager to continue and expand our partnership with the GRDM, further strengthening our shared commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, and local socio-economic growth.

Our vision for the coming year includes:

• Enhanced Training & Mentorship: Provide structured, quality mentorship to improve job retention and career growth.
• Workforce Development: Offer tailored skills development that aligns with local needs and supports community growth.
• Sustainable Employment Pathways: Strengthen connections between youth and employers to foster long-term employment.

Let’s build on the momentum of 2024 and create even greater opportunities for young people in the Garden Route District.

Olivia Goosen: Finding Confidence, Purpose and a Path Forward

Since joining the YES Youth Program, Olivia Goosen has embraced every opportunity to grow. She began working in the Solid Waste section of Knysna Municipality, doing data capturing, and is now assisting in the Traffic department with administrative tasks and handling phone calls. This shift not only broadened her experience but helped her develop practical skills she’ll use for life.

Through her work, Olivia has learned how to respond to emails professionally, communicate with the public about traffic enquiries, and capture data more efficiently in Excel. Her supervisors, Natalie Salmons and Randall Bower, were incredibly supportive and approachable, guiding her with patience and care. “They were always there to assist when I needed help,” she says.

Before the program, Olivia faced the emotional weight of repeated college rejections due to funding issues, which left her feeling stuck. But instead of giving up, she found purpose in her work. “The program made me realise I can do anything I put my mind to,” she says. “I used to be shy and wanted to be in my own corner, but now I’m not afraid to take the lead when it comes to getting something done.”

Olivia is now supporting both her household and extended family with groceries and electricity. Her next goal is to study administrative management—and you just know she’s going to make it happen.

Jay-dene Botha: From Listless Days to a Life with Purpose

Before joining the YES Youth Program Jay-dene’s days had felt long and empty. “I spent most of my time at home, not really doing anything,” she recalls. “I didn’t have a sense of purpose.” That all changed when she began working in the Property Section at the Garden Route District Municipality.

What started as a chance to gain experience, quickly became something more meaningful. Under the guidance of a supervisor whom she describes as “an exceptional role model”. Jay-dene began to see what’s possible when you take pride in your work. “She handles difficult situations with grace and delivers excellent results. Watching her has really motivated me to push myself,” Jay-dene says of her mentor.

Today, she walks into work with confidence and goes home with a sense of pride. The relief of no longer being idle has been matched by the joy of being able to support her mother, who was once the sole breadwinner in their home. “Now I help pay the bills,” she says. “It feels good knowing I’m making things easier for her.”

Jay-dene is a star. She’s grabbed opportunity with both hands and hasn’t forgotten to show up for the people who’ve always shown up for her.

Lutho Kemele: Dreams for the Future, Revived!

Although he already had a Diploma in Business Management, Lutho Kemele couldn’t seem to find any opportunities to utilise his qualifications.  “I didn’t know what to do or how to advance in my career,” he says. “This program gave me a new outlook on life.”

Placed at the Mossel Bay Municipality, Lutho quickly got stuck in, doing business licensing, data capturing, and more. “It’s been great,” he says. “I did a lot and learned a lot.” He credits much of this growth to the people around him. Mentors like Lukhanyo, Mabatho and Ntombifuthi not only showed him the ropes, but helped him believe in his own potential. “I’ve learned many valuable things that I’ll implement in my life going forward.”

Lutho has big dreams, seeing himself owning properties and building his own business. He’s already witnessing change right at home. “We managed to buy a few new things for the house,” he says, “and I even saved some money for my own needs.”

Sometimes a little belief, good people, and an open door at just the right time is all it takes to start dreaming again!

Angelo Manho: A Voice for His Community

Angelo Manho, now working in the Power Station Department at the George municipal buildings, joined the YES Youth Program at a time when hope felt distant. Despite applying for many jobs, he struggled to find work—often turned away simply because he hadn’t yet obtained a driver’s license.

Since joining the program, Angelo has not only gained practical workplace experience but also a deeper understanding of the issues facing his community. “The work has taught me a lot,” he shares, “especially about what people are struggling with most, and how we as workers can help improve things for them.”

With the support of mentors like Stephan Blok, Angelo has learned valuable professional skills and developed strong work ethics. Now, he’s also able to support his family in meaningful ways. “I can give a portion of my money to my parents each month, and I also help my mom buy things like cleaning products for the house.”

Angelo’s journey is a reminder that with the right support, young people can rise above their circumstances, find purpose—and bring home the Handy Andy, too.

Featured Image Caption: All role-players involved in the successful Bighearts Africa YES Programme, pictured with Christine de Wet (Host Liaison) and the GRDM team led by former Executive Manager, Trix Holtzhausen.

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