To take full advantage of the opportunities that learnerships can offer, it is important to come prepared
Finding a job can be especially tough for people with disabilities. Learnerships are a great way to gain new skills and work experience, as well as access meaningful employment. Designed to help participants gain qualifications while employed, earning a stipend, learnerships are an excellent option for wheelchair users aiming to enter the job market. To maximise the benefits of a learnership, it helps to be prepared:
Research programmes
Find learnerships that fit your interests and career goals. Registering on websites like Skills Junction and NGO ConnectSA can provide you access to learnerships programmes. Job-Abled specialises in disability requirements and placement. Social media can also be a helpful platform to look out for upcoming learnerships. Follow recruitment agencies, disability organisations and the companies that you are interested in. Many organisations post about learnerships.
An updated CV
Ensure that your CV is up to date with your skills, experience and qualifications. You can tailor your CV to highlight the areas that are most relevant to the specific learnership
Confidence speaking
Practice your interview skills so that you can discuss your skills, experiences, qualifications and interest confidently. Use some common questions asked in interviews to practice answering clearly and concisely. Be sure to tailor your response to the learnership that you are applying for.
Get out there
Attending career fairs, workshops or networking events can be a great way to connect with people who work in the fields that you are interested in and learn of learnership or vacancies within organisations. This can also be a good opportunity to market yourself and practice your interview skills.
Learnerships provide wheelchair users with a valuable opportunity to develop skills, gain work experience, and enhance their employability. By thoroughly preparing and actively seeking out opportunities, you can unlock new career prospects and pave the way for a successful future.
