Transforming lives and families sustainably
Devika Reddhi, director at Training Force
In today’s rapidly evolving world, equipping the youth with skills that align with workplace demands is more critical than ever. Youth unemployment remains a global challenge, and one especially pertinent in South Africa. With 45.5% of South Africans under the age of 35 without a job, it’s fair to call it a national crisis.
Luckily, one of the most effective solutions lies in upskilling through learnership programmes. These programmes not only provide technical knowledge but also offer practical workplace exposure, empowering young people to step confidently into the workforce.
Learnerships are more than just training initiatives; they are transformative opportunities. For young individuals, the journey of gaining a skill and applying it in a real-world setting instils a sense of purpose, discipline, and self-confidence. This dual focus on theoretical learning and workplace experience bridges the gap between education and employment, ensuring that learners are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen careers. What makes learnerships even more impactful is the ripple effect they create: when you uplift one individual, you uplift their family, their community, and, ultimately, society at large.
As a director of Training Force, this is what fuels my passion and purpose every day. Our motto is simple yet profound: We train with heart, we train with purpose. Watching a young person transition from uncertainty to empowerment is deeply fulfilling. Knowing that the skills we impart are not only changing their lives but also contributing to their families’ well-being fills me with immense pride and gratitude.
I’ve had the privilege of witnessing learners rise to challenges, gain employment, and become breadwinners in their households. Their success stories remind me of why this work is so important. A single learnership opportunity often means that a family can put food on the table, a sibling can continue their education, or a household can take one step closer to stability and dignity.
For me, there is no greater reward than seeing how these programmes spark hope and unlock potential. Every learner that graduates represents a life transformed, and that transformation extends far beyond the individual. It’s this profound impact that drives me to do what I do.
At Training Force, we remain committed to training with purpose and compassion, knowing that we are not just teaching skills but building futures. The satisfaction of empowering young people and seeing their success stories unfold is not just fulfilling, it’s the reason we do what we do. Together, we’re shaping a brighter, more empowered tomorrow, one learner at a time.
For organisations, investing in learnerships is not just a corporate responsibility, it’s a deeply fulfilling endeavour. Witnessing the transformation of a young individual, from uncertainty to confidence, is a profound reminder of the power of opportunity. It’s about more than numbers on a balance sheet; it’s about changing lives.
The satisfaction of impacting one person’s life cannot be overstated. Knowing that you have played a role in giving someone a future, a career, a sense of purpose, and the ability to contribute to society, is a reward in itself. This act of empowerment, multiplied across communities, strengthens the social fabric and builds a more inclusive economy.
The call to action is clear: businesses, educational institutions, and governments must collaborate to expand access to learnerships. By doing so, we are not just addressing unemployment; we are shaping a future where every young person has the chance to thrive, contribute, and inspire others.
In the end, upskilling the youth is more than a strategic move; it’s a mission of hope, progress, and humanity. Let’s work together to create a world where every young person’s potential is realised, where families are strengthened, and where communities flourish through the power of opportunity.
