With youth unemployment sitting at 27,5%, it is time for companies to encourage and inspire young people to dream big, to become entrepreneurs and understand the importance of working hard to achieve one’s objectives.
This month Fidelity ADT in partnership with 11 leaders from various departments including Gauteng Province, Department of Education, Mr Lloyd Phiri; the Assistant Director of Safe School Management, SAPS – Social Crime and EMPD Social Crime hosted 20 learners from Parklands High School in Alberton and Phumlani Secondary School in Katlehong South.
Linda Goodenough, community development manager for Fidelity ADT says the key objective of the initiative was to give girls who are leaders, an opportunity to experience the world of WORK first hand. “Our hope is that this will inspire them to WORK hard at school to achieve their chosen careers. We also wanted to remind them to believe in themselves; expand their horizons and broaden their knowledge. This really was a chance to encourage and motivate young learners who are already leaders in their schools,” she says.
Goodenough says the girls were taken from Alberton and escorted by a “blue light brigade” to the Fidelity ADT head office in Midrand. The day started with fresh scones and coffee while the girls were introduced to the workplace. “We also started with a buddy game where the girls had to find a buddy and share their story. This was a great ice breaker,” says Goodenough. The guest speaker for the day was Tinyiko Sithole who elaborated further on the whole theme of the day – don’t wish for it – work for it.
The day ended with the girls being taken out to the helipad and experiencing some fun marching drills and were able to see some of the sophisticated security response vehicles and cash in transit vehicles up close. Even Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Services Group was on hand to welcome the girls during lunch.
“I really hope the day was a memorable and unforgettable work experience for the young girls who are our leaders of the future. It was a wonderful experience and privilege for us to host these young people and we wish them everything of the best in their future studies,” concludes Goodenough.
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