In an effort to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment, the Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) held its “Partnering for Progress” networking breakfast, uniting public and private sector leaders on Monday, 9 September, at the Atlantis Industrial hub.
This event brought together key stakeholders to explore sustainable strategies for improving skills development and employability for unemployed youth while creating opportunities for businesses to thrive in the region.
The breakfast served as a platform for stakeholders to explore actionable strategies focused on improving skills development and employability for unemployed youth. Key discussions included innovative funding models to facilitate job creation and cost-saving opportunities for businesses through targeted unemployment initiatives.
Selwyn Willoughby, ASEZ’s Executive for Integrated Ecosystem, stated the significance of these collaborations: “By enhancing youth skills and creating meaningful job opportunities, we drive long-term workforce improvements. Our focus on targeted funding models not only supports cost savings for companies but also fosters economic growth within our community.”
This event marks a pivotal step in ASEZ’s ongoing commitment to empowering South Africa’s youth and strengthening the local economy. The networking breakfast underscores ASEZ’s role as a vital platform for collaboration, innovation, and economic development.
Key insights and discussions
Attendees engaged in rich discussions about the mutual benefits of investing in youth development. Highlights included:
- Exploring unemployment funding models that provide financial support to businesses for hiring and training young talent.
- Aligning workforce needs with relevant learnerships and skills training programs.
- Understanding the broader economic benefits of youth empowerment, from increased productivity to enhancing South Africa’s economic resilience.
Opportunities for businesses and youth
Businesses in the Atlantis community are encouraged to participate in these impactful initiatives. Benefits include:
- Access to a skilled young workforce through collaborations with training providers.
- B-BBEE compliance advantages, contributing to social development targets while enhancing workforce capacity.
Unemployed youth are invited to register with the CSG Talent Division for various training and skills development programs, which offer:
- Industry-aligned training to improve employability in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and logistics.
- Stipend support to alleviate financial barriers for participants.
- Post-program employment opportunities, with many securing positions within training companies.
Join the movement for progress
The “Partnering for Progress” initiative is just the beginning. ASEZ is committed to continuous collaboration among businesses, training providers, and youth to tackle unemployment and build a sustainable future.
With a focus on Greentech innovation and economic development, ASEZ is revitalising Atlantis as a hub for sustainable growth and job creation. The CSG Group is dedicated to connecting unemployed talent with real job opportunities, enhancing workforce development through learnerships and tailored recruitment services.
Upcoming recruitment drives
To further these efforts, CSG Talent Division has announced two upcoming recruitment drives in September, aimed at encouraging unemployed individuals to register for opportunities in the region. Details will follow shortly.
Through these collective initiatives, ASEZ and its partners are working together to create a brighter future for both youth and businesses, fostering economic revitalisation in Atlantis.
