The Amy Foundation has announced the continuation of its partnership with Lagoon Beach Hotel which aims to tackle the issue of youth unemployment in South Africa.
According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), the current unemployment rate stands at 32.9%, with youth unemployment sitting at 45.5%.
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Since their partnership began in August 2022, 127 young individuals have benefited from learner-ship opportunities at Lagoon Beach Hotel. Of the 127 individuals, 47 have been offered contracts and seasonal positions.
This partnership continues to identify and place approximately 16 candidates in internships each month, which will provide internships to young individuals with essential hands-on experience and skills development in the hospitality sector.
While the Lagoon Beach Hotel cannot ‘absorb’ all the interns in subsequent placement opportunities at their hotel, interns who have ‘proven themselves’ are then considered for placement opportunities elsewhere.
‘We are thrilled to witness the profound and positive impact our collaboration with Lagoon Beach Hotel is having on the lives of our youth,’ said Hilary George, programme manager for the Youth Skills Development Programme.
‘This partnership not only provides essential skills and valuable work experience but also instils a sense of hope and possibility for the future. By opening doors to real opportunities, we are helping our young people build a brighter, more secure future for themselves and their communities,’ George added.
Kevin Chaplin, managing director of the Amy Foundation, has expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, calling it a ‘testament to what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared vision’.
Pieter Buitendag, general manager of Lagoon Beach Hotel, echoed this sentiment.
‘Partnering with the Amy Foundation allows us to give back to the community in a meaningful way,’ said Buitendag.
‘Our industry has a massive skills gap after Covid; by investing in the skills and potential of our youth, we are not only addressing unemployment but also building a stronger future for the hospitality industry and our country as a whole,’ he added.
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Picture: Supplied
