To help bridge the gap between high school, tertiary education and employment, Hillsong Africa has launched Innovation Hub Africa, a programme to equip young people with the skills required to pursue careers in the digital sphere.
Through the initiative, now in its second year, training is offered at no cost to the students and is scheduled to run for one year.
The project aims to inspire, educate and enable young unemployed people, aged 18 to 25, from the townships.
Facility manager Brandon Vergotine, said his organisation hoped to assist aspiring innovators.
“That’s a great opportunity for young aspiring entrepreneurs or business people.
“With the programme there will come a lot of opportunities, of course,” he said.
The training focuses on leadership, identity, digital marketing skills, as well as other soft skills. Project leader Maurisa Moloto said the students would be able to access opportunities that would unlock the potential of the next generation, ultimately connecting them to local and global digital economy.
“We are very excited to see the second intake. One of the exciting things is to start their own businesses. With mentorship and leadership skills they will get here. All is possible,” said Ms Moloto.
The students were excited to be part of the initiative.
Zimkhitha Jali said her challenge was marketing herself and her skills.
“I hope this would be the best way to reach many people out there. Digital is the way to go. People live with technology these days. So this will be helpful to reach my goals. I am interested in digital marketing for that reason.
“Hopefully I will benefit something,” she said.
Former student and an innovator Mthuthuzeli Jodo called on the new intake to take the programme seriously, saying they should be proud of themselves and where they come from.