The SPAR Group and Mr Price Foundation are commemorating almost a decade of successful partnership in combatting youth unemployment.
The partners have been working together to break the cycle of poverty and inequality in South Africa, through the JumpStart programme over the past seven years. The SPAR Group is intent on supporting the Foundation in its endeavour to empower the country’s underserved youth.
JumpStart teaches matriculants foundational life skills and provides hands-on work experience in the entry level retail environment. This bridges the gap between school and the world of work and helps the youth enter the job market better prepared.
The SPAR Group sources much talent from the JumpStart pipeline; and has also partnered with the NPO on it’s biggest fundraiser for the year: the JumpStart Challenge.
Due to Covid, the previous 606km, two-day cycle Ride for Mr Price Foundation evolved into a virtual event. Now rebranded as the JumpStart Challenge, the 2022 event offers virtual and physical options to walk/run or cycle from March 12 to 20.
Funds raised will directly support JumpStart which has trained 22,259 youth for retail frontline jobs since 2007; 50% of whom have found employment over the past 14 years.
Brett Botten, CEO of The SPAR Group said, “The partnership between The SPAR Group and the Mr. Price Foundation highlights the potential that resides amongst South Africa’s unemployed youth and that by identifying this we are able contribute in alleviating this massive problem. The JumpStart Challenge presents us all with the opportunity to get involved and make a difference.”
It is estimated that 9,4 million youth aged 15 to 34 are not in employment, education, or training, according to Stats SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey Quarter 3: 2021.
Through JumpStart thousands of youth are upskilled to become work-ready and better equipped to land employment. NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) has recognised JumpStart as a good practice for youth unemployment in Africa. NEPAD’s primary socio-economic objectives include eradicating poverty, promoting sustainable growth and development, integrating Africa into the world economy and accelerating women’s empowerment.
Head of Mr Price Foundation, Karen Wells is optimistic about partnering with another leading retailer. “This dynamic partnership with the with one of the country’s leading retailers means the Foundation has more opportunity to provide young unemployed South Africans with training, hence a better future.”
The JumpStart Challenge can be tackled virtually anywhere in the world, or at the physical event at Holla Trails in Sugar Rush Park, Ballito on Sunday, March 13.
The Challenge accommodates all ages and abilities: from children in prams to seasoned athletes. #JustStart by changing the lives of South Africa’s unemployed youth.
Virtual entry is R99pp for the following categories:
Virtual run or walk: 3km * 7km * 15km
Virtual Ride: 15km * 50km * 100km
Entry at Holla Trails is R140 to ride and R120 to run, including the necessary permits.
Holla Trails run or walk: 3.3km * 8.5km * 14km
Holla Trails MTB Ride: 15km * 50km * 95km
To #JustStart and join in on this fun challenge go to www.jumpstartchallenge.org
