Afrika Tikkun was established with the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to realise his or her fullest potential. Many of our beneficiaries hail from impoverished and under-resourced backgrounds, where socioeconomic opportunities are rare. Our goal, as Afrika Tikkun, is to create an economically thriving South African society by investing holistically in our youth. We envision a future where every young South African has the opportunity to thrive, where communities are empowered to break free from the cycle of poverty, and where entrepreneurs are the architects of their own success.
As Afrika Tikkun, we strive to develop young people from 2 to 35 years of age, starting with our Bambanani Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme, right through to empowering young job seekers and future leaders through our Cradle-to-Career 360° model.
“Through our varied solutions, we correctly position the youth of South Africa to transition into the economy and become commandeers of their own power.”
This model is a comprehensive approach to child and youth development that considers the needs of each young person across different stages of their lives by offering a set of programmes and support services to counter the effect of poverty and inequality for each young person who comes through our doors. In this way, we are actively working to reduce of youth unemployment in a sustainable manner. Through our varied solutions, we correctly position the youth of South Africa to transition into the economy and become commandeers of their own power.
Our enterprise development initiatives are designed to nurture and empower aspiring entrepreneurs. We understand that starting a business can be daunting, which is why we offer comprehensive support. From business mentorship and training to access to financing and markets, we provide the tools and resources necessary for entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality. We believe that true empowerment begins with economic independence, and that is where our commitment to enterprise and supplier development comes into play. Supplier development is another cornerstone of our mission.
Through our Youth Employment Service (YES), together with the Houghton Hotel, we established the Hospitality programme, which is a testament to our commitment to youth empowerment. A case in point is that of 21-yearold Mukundi Mphohoni, a standout participant in the programme. After completing the YES programme and gaining invaluable insights from placements in the finance and procurement departments, Mukundi founded Sweet Remedies. Her innovative business, established in July 2021, specialises in supplying sweets to hotels (including the Houghton Hotel where her business is based) and for parties, events, gifting and personal enjoyment. Mukundi’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of the YES Hospitality programme on young entrepreneurs. Mukundi shared her success story, saying,
“My business, Sweet Remedies, was established in July 2021 and has been operating for the past two years and counting. The YES programme played a crucial role in refining my business acumen and skills, enabling me to run my business both within and beyond the hotel sector.”
We recognise the importance of building strong local economies, and this starts by strengthening the businesses that drive them. We work closely with local suppliers, like Mukundi, helping them enhance their capabilities, expand their reach and meet international standards. By doing so, we not only create a ripple effect of economic growth but also promote sustainability and resilience within communities.
We firmly believe in economic empowerment through sustainable employability solutions, enterprise development and building community partnerships. Indeed, the future success of our youth and nation is a collective effort and responsibility. Hence let us all do what we can, with what we have, where we are for those who cannot do for themselves.
Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about Afrika Tikkun. Together, we can shape a better future for all.