The Huguenot Square Library in Belhar recently hosted a transformative employment programme in collaboration with the Expanded Public Works Programme, YoungPeople@Work and Avon.
The event attracted 77 community members eager to explore employment opportunities and gain valuable insights into career development.
According to Cheryl Petersen, assistant librarian, the programme is the first of many. “This marked an essential step towards addressing unemployment and empowering local residents,” she said.
“The EPWP played a pivotal role in this employment initiative. It presented the public with information on the programme and assisted with the jobseeker applications, and updated the details of those who are already on the database.”
YoungPeople@Work is a local organisation with a mission to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to secure meaningful employment. “It informed the community of the wide array of workshops and mentoring sessions it provides, including computer classes, resumé building, interview preparation and soft skills development,” Petersen said. “Avon, a renowned cosmetics and beauty company, contributed by emphasising entrepreneurship as a viable career path. It showcased opportunities for community members to become independent entrepreneurs through its Avon Representatives programme. This highlighted the importance of self-employment and small businesses as a means of financial independence.”
She said the programme left a lasting impact on the community. “Seventy-seven people attending left with newfound knowledge, improved job-seeking skills, and a sense of empowerment. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn and connect with potential employers and mentors.”
