Mkhwanazi Foundation empowers youth through career guidance and mentorship

Tsakani – The Mkhwanazi Foundation recently hosted the Esihlahleni Youth Career Day, aimed at encouraging the youth to take calculated steps for their future.

The event took place at the Esihlahleni Community Centre in Tsakani, where organisers invited several schools to participate.

Representatives from organisations, businesses, and educational institutions shared valuable advice and insights.

The learners had the privilege of connecting with industry professionals and asking questions. The Mkhwanazi Foundation, founded by a local couple deeply committed to community development, is transforming their church into a hub of opportunity, learning, and hope.

Foundation CEO Nthabiseng Mkhwanazi explained that their vision is to holistically address the needs of young people.

“We are looking at more than just education. Our programmes focus on music ministry, after-school tutoring, and food initiatives.

“We want to understand what our community and youth need so we can equip them with the right tools for a better future.

“When we open new possibilities to young people, they start to think differently, dream bigger, and become inquisitive,” she explained.

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She compared their efforts to the well-known story of a child on the beach throwing starfish back into the ocean, one by one.

When told that he could not save them all, the child replied, “It made a difference to that one.” She mentioned that the event might not be big now, but it is a start toward change.

“Every minor change creates an impact. Once we start, others will carry it forward, and together we will build a community that uplifts our youth,” she said.

One of the foundation’s key partners is young entrepreneur Pilot Nkadimeng, who leads the after-school tutoring programme.

He is the founder and director of Off Campus Africa, whose passion for youth development caught the foundation’s attention.

“I saw his dedication and wanted to help guide him. He has a heart for this work, but young leaders sometimes need structure and mentorship – that’s where we come in,” said Mkhwanazi.

Through their partnership, the foundation provides resources such as Wi-Fi, study materials, and, in the near future, computers to support the children’s learning.

“We want to make sure they have what they need to succeed. When Pilot grows, this initiative grows too. It’s about empowering each other,” she said.

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Among the institutions present at the event was First National Bank, which offered learners banking solutions, student accounts, and school-related opportunities such as student loans.

Closing the Digital Divide Technical Institution was on-site to offer learners advice on its various programmes.

“For over two years, we have been at the forefront of preparing students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving technology sector,” said Phozisa Cabane, a representative of the institution.

“Our mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that combines rigorous academic training with practical, hands-on learning.We believe in nurturing not just technical skills, but also critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership.

“Our curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry leaders to equip our graduates with the most relevant skills and knowledge.”

The Mkhwanazi Foundation’s goal is not just to provide opportunities but to plant seeds of inspiration that will grow into a movement of empowerment and hope. They aim to host the career day annually, inviting more speakers, schools, and stakeholders.

“This is only the beginning. We are building something that will outlive us, something that will continue to uplift our youth and transform our community,” concluded Mkhwanazi.