We’re outside Rosebank Mall in Johannesburg, South Africa, eagerly awaiting the arrival of our Grade 9 learners from our Khulani Schools. Today is the big day – our Take A Learner to Work initiative. The excitement in the air is tangible as learners chat animatedly, gazing at the world around them. The Gautrain train hums in the background, and Rosebank’s towering buildings stand as symbols of possibilities just within reach.
“Wooah! Did you see that BMW? That’s my dream car!” exclaims one learner, while another points to a Mercedes-Benz passing by, claiming it as their future ride. Phones come out as learners snap selfies, capturing the moment in front of the grand buildings and bustling streets of Rosebank, a vibrant hub of commerce and culture. The wonder in their eyes says it all: today is unlike any other day they’ve experienced.
This initiative follows up on our Career Expos held in May, designed to bring careers to life for our grade nine learners and help them make informed choices as they transition into grade ten. Over the next three days, 108 young minds will step into different workplaces, getting an up-close view of industries they may one day aspire to join. It’s an opportunity for them to explore potential paths, ask questions, and spark passions they might not have even known they had.
Walking through these offices, learners are exposed to the buzz of the working world. They interact with professionals who generously share insights into their daily lives, the skills they’ve built, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. For many learners, it’s an awakening – a chance to dream beyond the familiar and imagine themselves in roles they once thought impossible.
“This has been such a life-changing experience for me. The best day of my life”
“This has been such a life-changing experience for me. The best day of my life,” one learner shares with the Trevor Noah Foundation team and their host company, gratitude and tears of joy radiating from their smile. The transformation is visible – the experience has given them a new sense of confidence and excitement for what lies ahead.
We owe heartfelt thanks to every company and professional who welcomed our learners, who opened their doors and hearts, sharing wisdom that will shape these young people’s futures. A special thanks goes out to Spur Corp for fueling the three days with delicious burgers, a treat that added so much joy to the experience.
Seeing the learners’ faces light up with gratitude reminded us all of the power of kindness and community support.
Our Take A Learner to Work initiative is more than a program; it’s a bridge to opportunity, a chance for our learners to dream beyond the horizon and believe that those dreams can become reality. Thank you to everyone who made this journey possible – you are helping shape South Africa’s future, one learner at a time.
One Response
It looks like you are having a great time and are at the same time working very hard at the Trevor Noah Foundation! Beautiful to read and see. The younger ones are also growing well. All our encouragements. blessings to all team members and TNF partners. Not forgetting the chairman.