Two candidates from the QASA Work Readiness Programme share how their lives changed after completing the programme
Sandile Mthembu learned about the QASA Work Readiness Programme through a friend who was enrolled. He recalls: “I learned about the programme through a friend who was also doing it. I was inspired because of the knowledge he was gaining and the opportunities that the programme offered. It was very motivational.”
Mthulisi Motseki also learned about the programme through a friend – or rather a co-worker. He notes: “I also learned about the programme from a friend. We were both doing an internship and I wanted to learn more.
“After I finished that learnership, I joined the Work Readiness Programme. It inspired me because I didn’t know a lot about learnerships. I thought my age would be an issue, but it wasn’t.”
Both went on to complete the programme and found employment with Alexforbes South Africa, a financial service group. Of his experience, Sandile says: “I gained a lot of knowledge and skills through the programme.
“I learned about communication and working as a team, which helped a lot when I started at Alexforbes South Africa. Here, staff work as a team. The programme also prepared me to work under pressure and plan; how to maintain work and complete work in time.”
For both gentlemen, working at Alexforbes South Africa has been a joy. Sandile explains: “Alexforbes South Africa is the most beautiful and biggest company. Work is not easy, but it is good to work in a company that wants to learn from you. I feel at home. Every job has its challenges, but you can work through it. You need to prove you can do the work. You need to have a positive attitude and learn from each other.”
Mthulisi agrees: “Same. To be here, I’m inspired; born again. I feel at home. I dreamed about this job. I was so happy when Alexforbes South Africa called me to ask that I work for them. The staff from each department are so cool. I’ve learned that communication and listening are important. I’ve learned that the customer comes first.”
The team at Alexforbes South Africa have enjoyed having both Sandile and Mthulisi on the team. Their supervisor, Sandile Memeza, says: “The guys are really trying and doing their best. I was also in a learnership, but got a permanent job because of hard work and presenting myself well. You need to prove yourself.”
Consulting manager at Alexforbes South Africa, Ashley Ramsoonder, says: “The attitude of the guys have been positive and inspiring. They also work so hard.”
Portia Mmethi, senior manager at Alexforbes South Africa, adds: “In our industry, it is important to stay upbeat and have a willingness to work. We really got them at a time that we needed them.”
While both candidates and the team at Alexforbes are excited about the partnership, it was necessary for the company to make some preparations to accommodate the gentlemen.
“We needed to establish that we could accommodate the environment for them,” says Portia. “Our building is actually very compliant. Next, we needed to check that the printers were accessible.
“Businesses need to be ready to accommodate the candidates. This does not only mean the building, but also the staff mentality. This might require some sensitisation training.”
Both candidates share their advice for anyone who is considering joining the programme, or stepping into the formal world of work. Sandile advises: “Go ahead and do the Work Readiness Programme. It is a wonderful programme.
“As for work, in the workplace environment, you need to adapt and see yourself as equal. It is okay to ask for help, but don’t make it a habit. Show that you are capable. Motivate yourself. You could lose an opportunity because you stepped back.”
Mthulisi shares: “Be focused. It is all about respect. Listening to everything. Don’t justify yourself if you make a mistake or are wrong. Be proud of yourself. We are able.”
The Work Readiness Programme is a two- month skills development programme that teaches the necessary soft skills to work in the formal sector. It also includes a work placement opportunity. To compliment the programme, QASA hosts its Employment Workshops, which are aimed at educating employers on the value of employing people with disabilities as well as identifying businesses that are serious about employing people with disabilities and can offer placement opportunities for the successful participants.
If you are interested in participating in the programme, attending a workshop or offering a work placement opportunity to the candidates, please reach out to QASA at info@qasa.co.za or phone 031 767 0352.
