Afrika Tikkun in partnership with the Department of Social Development continues to invest in young people through a unique model called the cradle to Career 360 development programme. Afrika Tikkun aims to empower young people in disadvantaged communities by providing programmes that enable them to become productive citizens and leaders.
The development programme was outlined and lauded by the speakers at the Business Breakfast on the 13th of March which was hosted at the Houghton Hotel. The breakfast gathering was opened by Graeme Codrigton, Futurist and Founding Director of Strategic Insights who spoke about South Africa as a whole and how it can be defined as a Rolle coaster. “We cannot pretend that disruptions do not happen. We know the lows of public service but we can’t sit here and blame the government, we have got to shift”.
Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu delivered the keynote address. The Minister expressed her satisfaction with the partnership between The Department of Social Development and Afrika Tikkun’s Cradle- to -Career 360 development programme aimed at monitoring and nurturing a child’s development from early childhood right up to the entry of their chosen career paths. “This is what happens when people talk to each other, not above each other. We have to make sure that we work together to make sure that this initiative works” said Zulu. Accompanied by Afrika Tikkun officials, Minister Zulu signed a letter of intent which was also read out aloud.
The Cradle-to-Career Development program is split into three phases (1) Early Childhood Development which is aimed at pre-school age and includes fully balanced nutrition and skills development. (2) Child & Youth Development, an after-school programme for children and youth from Grade 1 to Grade 12, and provides a series of activities that enhance the young person and (3) Career Development which provides career guidance, job readiness training, job placement and bursaries for further learning. This phase is targeted at young adults with a matric or equivalent between the ages of 19-29yrs.
According to Marc Lubner, CEO Afrika Tikkun, the organization started off as a charity, fast forward to today, Afrika Tikkun has a global presence and has changed the lives of many. “You have got to look at the development of a person holistically and invest in an individual’s ability to believe in themselves,” said Lubner.
Sinaziwe Ndlovu is a product of the Cradle to Career 360 programme. She realized that there was an activity at her community hall and decided to go and enquire about the festivities. “The minute I walked into the hall, I realized that I could benefit from activities. I joined the programme and I have no regrets,” said Ndlovu. She encouraged young people to step outside and ask about activities wh are happening in their communities.
