Latest news with #JenniferMdluli
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Closing the skills gap: how training programmes are reshaping the workforce
Jennifer Mdluli is a radio broadcaster, Head coach and Founder of Emerald Gymnastics Club, and facilitator dedicated to youth and community development. As South Africa observes Workers' Day in May, the occasion carries a bitter undertone for many young people. For them, this time no longer symbolises hard-won labour rights or economic progress; it is instead a reminder of exclusion, unemployment, and unfulfilled promise. According to Stats SA, the unemployment rate stood at 31.9% in Q1 2024 and rose to a staggering 32.9% in Q1 2025. The expanded unemployment rate, which includes discouraged job seekers, reached 43.1%. Among the youth, the picture is even bleaker. While time-related underemployment remains at 4.6%, suggesting some are working fewer hours than they are willing and able to, the broader concern is the quality and accessibility of jobs. Distressingly, only 9.8% of employed youth are graduates, highlighting a harsh truth: higher education, while essential, no longer guarantees employment. This disconnects between education and economic opportunity reveals systemic issues. Many young South Africans remain locked out of the workforce, not because of a lack of will or potential, but due to structural inequalities, limited access to quality education, a lack of job creation, and persistent socio-economic barriers. The growing number of NEETs (youth not in employment, education, or training) is perhaps the clearest indicator of a generation at risk of long-term marginalisation. Without targeted interventions such as inclusive labour market policies, youth-focused entrepreneurship support, and stronger links between education and industry, South Africa risks losing the demographic dividend its youth could offer. As we reflect this workers month, let us not only honour the workers who built and sustain our economy, but also confront the realities faced by those still striving to enter it. South Africa cannot afford to leave its youth behind. The Urgent Call for Skills Training With traditional job pathways shrinking, young people are turning to alternative ways of becoming employable. Skills training has emerged as a practical and empowering solution - one that not only teaches job-ready competencies but also boosts confidence, independence, and long-term resilience. Recent data shows that youth with some form of experience are significantly more successful in transitioning into employment than adults. Between quarters, 12.3% of youth moved from unemployment or inactivity into work, compared to 7.4% of adults. This highlights the importance of early exposure to real-world work environments and practical skills. Community-Based Change: The Mordecai Ndlovu Foundation In response to this urgent need, organisations like the Mordecai Ndlovu Foundation are stepping up to close the gap from the ground up. Through initiatives such as the Waste Management Skills Programme, the foundation is equipping young people with accredited, industry-relevant skills that address local employment gaps. More than just training, these programmes offer: Stipends to alleviate financial pressure during the learning process Hands-on practical experience to ensure real-world readiness Structured mentorship and support, helping youth navigate the pathway into work As Mordecai Ndlovu, a passionate member of the Activate! Change Drivers and Generation G Champion, explains: 'I've had the privilege of driving social discussions around youth development in communities such as Tembisa, Orange Farm, Katlehong, and the Vaal. Our focus has been on creating meaningful programs and dialogues that address the unique challenges faced by young people. Through skills training, we bridge the employment gap by ensuring our youth are not only employable but equipped with practical industry skills.' Work, gender, and justice: a generation's call for change The future of work must also be gender-just. South Africa cannot address youth unemployment without tackling the deep gender inequalities that restrict access to opportunities and perpetuate violence. The Generation Gender (Gen G) program - a partnership between Activate! Change Drivers, ActionAid, and Sonke Gender Justice - is a vital response. Gen G works to build gender-equitable, violence-free societies, empowering youth as agents of change, especially in addressing the persistent crisis of gender-based violence (GBV). Skills training, therefore, must do more than prepare people for jobs - it must be transformative. Programmes must intentionally dismantle gender stereotypes, promote safety in training and workspaces, and ensure that young women, queer youth, and non-binary individuals are fully included. For example, the Waste Management Skills Programme not only creates green jobs but also challenges male-dominated norms, opening up new possibilities for inclusion and leadership. The political moment: from symbolism to structural change With South Africa entering a new political phase under a Government of National Unity (GNU), the country is presented with a rare opportunity for collective, forward-thinking action. Workers' Month in May must be more than commemorative; it must become a moment of commitment. The GNU must mainstream youth employment and gender justice into national policy, from funding inclusive skills training to protecting vulnerable workers from exploitation and harm. Partners like those in the Gen G alliance are already doing the groundwork, hosting dialogues, training changemakers, and shifting norms at the grassroots. Now, national leadership must match this momentum with bold reforms. This includes scaling up community-based innovations, strengthening industry-education partnerships, and ensuring that youth are not just beneficiaries of programs but leaders of change. The bigger picture: skills, not just jobs Statistics show that 65% of employers report skills shortages, not a lack of applicants. The most in-demand attributes aren't just technical skills, but soft skills like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. These are competencies that programs like the Waste Management Skills Programme actively develop. In this light, training programs are not just a stopgap, they are a sustainable pathway to a reimagined workforce that values adaptability and lifelong learning. They also promote social inclusion, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose for young people. A call to action South Africa's youth face a challenging job market, but hope lies in proactive, community-driven initiatives. Skills training offers more than employability; it offers empowerment. Organisations like the Mordecai Ndlovu Foundation are proving that with the right support, potential can be unlocked, and futures reshaped. Let this Workers' Day be more than a symbolic gesture. Let it be a call to invest in our youth, in skills development, and in programs that uplift from the grassroots. * Jennifer Mdluli is a radio broadcaster, Head coach and Founder of Emerald Gymnastics Club, and facilitator dedicated to youth and community development. A member of Activate! Change Drivers, an organisation that fosters youth leadership and inspires social change through creativity and engagement, Jennifer is committed to supporting efforts that promote equality, inclusion, and empowerment for all individuals.
IOL News
18-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
From struggles to success: Building a gymnastics club in Soweto
Onele Tyawa, 11, participated in the 2023 World Dance Competition in Gauteng. Founder Jennifer Mdluli started a gymnastics club in Soweto to nurture talent that will in future join Tyawa in representing the country on the world stage. Image: Supplied Growing up in a school where the only sports available to us were netball and soccer, I felt boxed into something I didn't enjoy. I didn't like netball; all girls had to play netball, and it was clear that I wasn't cut out for it. During team selections, I always made sure to position myself at the back, hoping not to be picked. When I was chosen, I'd find myself at the goalpost or standing on the sidelines, far from the action. The ball would rarely come my way, and I hated it. I'd make up excuses to avoid playing — telling my teammates I was sick or that my parents didn't want me playing in the sun. But deep down, I always wanted something more, something different. I would sometimes sneak off to the soccer field to play with the boys, even though I didn't fully understand the game. The boys would often leave me behind because I wasn't skilled enough, but I didn't mind. I just enjoyed the physical activity. Still, there was no structure, no girls' team, and no girls' coach, so I often found myself feeling lost. In high school, I faced even more challenges. I still didn't have a voice, and it seemed like I was meant to fit into the roles that were laid out for me. But then, one day, something changed. I saw rhythmic gymnastics for the first time, and it felt like a revelation. The beauty of the routines with ribbons, balls, and hoops captivated me. I thought, 'This is exactly what I want to do.' It was a sport that seemed to align with everything I had been longing for. A New Beginning in the Gym The first day I stepped into the gym, I felt something I had never experienced before — a deep sense of purpose. Gymnastics quickly became my passion. However, it wasn't until I started ranking and moving up through the levels that I truly understood how demanding the sport could be. The physical challenges were tough, but I was determined. I doubled my training sessions and made sure every moment I had was dedicated to improving. But even as my skills grew, I often faced internal battles. I would look at the more advanced girls—thinner, taller — and I'd think, I don't belong here. The doubt would creep in. I struggled with feelings of inadequacy, especially when I saw only tall, slim girls, mostly white, standing on the podium. It stung. But when I saw one of our girls up there, my heart melted. It was a moment of pure pride. It made me believe that maybe I, too, could make it to the podium one day. When our team made it to the podium, we didn't just stop there. We would walk out of the competition venue with our medals clinking on our necks. You could imagine us—matching tracksuits, walking home as the stars of our community. We carried our medals like trophies, and it wasn't just about the victory. We had made our club, Lelethu Gymnastics, proud. We had made our coach, Fikile Jaxa, proud. We made our parents, our community, our schools, and most importantly, ourselves, proud. We did all of this despite the noise, the negativity that gymnastics was a 'white girls' sport,' a 'rich girls' sport.' Yet, we stepped foot on those podiums, made our names heard, and proved that we belonged. It was a testament to our resilience and determination. We showed everyone that we were more than capable, and we were just getting started. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The Power of Pride and Hard Work Being on the podium brought so much pride to our club. We had worked so hard, and it paid off—we started ranking among the best. None of this would've been possible without our amazing coach, Fikile Jaxa. She gave so much of herself to see us succeed. She didn't just coach us in skills; she instilled confidence and belief in us. Because of her, we travelled through the sport to places I never imagined I'd reach. It was incredible to have something to be proud of, and it fueled my desire to keep pushing. The Mental Game It wasn't just about physical strength; gymnastics required a deep mental focus, one I had to constantly check and strengthen. I faced a lot of mental challenges, too. But I worked through them, and over time, I moved through the levels at a pace I hadn't expected. Those four years were some of the best of my life. They weren't without their struggles, but they shaped me into someone who believed in herself, even when it was tough. The Shift: From Athlete to Coach As I grew in the sport, my journey took a new turn — I eventually started coaching. Being on the other side of the equation, helping others achieve what I once did, gave me a sense of fulfilment I hadn't anticipated. It wasn't just about teaching skills anymore. It was about inspiring others, helping them see the potential within themselves, just as I had learned to do. Coaching opened my eyes to just how much my coach had done for me and the team. The financial strain of gymnastics was something I had never fully understood until I was in charge of coaching a group of young athletes. My coach had made so many sacrifices, paying for leotards, apparatus, and competition fees out of her pocket. It was a hard realisation for me, but it taught me the importance of paying it forward. I began coaching in three different clubs, gaining valuable experience in helping both younger and more advanced gymnasts. The challenges were evident: we often had to share leotards, and the lack of proper equipment was a constant issue. There were times when we couldn't afford to attend competitions, and my coach would step in to cover the costs. But even with these struggles, I saw how much gymnastics had shaped me. It gave me confidence, discipline, and a desire to keep improving. Every time I went to a competition and saw only white athletes on the podium, I doubted myself — was I not good enough? But when a fellow black gymnast made it to the podium, I would cheer the loudest, proud to see one of us succeed. Jennifer Mdluli is a passionate radio broadcaster, Head coach and Founder of Emerald Gymnastics Club, and facilitator dedicated to youth and community development. Image: Jennifer Mdluli Starting a Gymnastics Club in Soweto A few years later, I found myself away from the sport, but the passion for gymnastics never left me. I knew I had to return. This time, however, I wanted to do something bigger. I wanted to create something that would give back to my community. I wanted to open my own gymnastics club and provide opportunities to young athletes who might otherwise never have had the chance to try the sport. In the year 2024, I officially opened the gymnastics club in Soweto with the help of my former coach Fikile, who happens to be a very good friend of mine now, we had 10 sign ups for the year, we continued the work despite every beginning starts small and needs us to endure and always look at the bigger picture. The Open Day: A Step Forward for Gymnastics in Soweto One of the most exciting milestones for our gymnastics club was the Open Day that we hosted on March 18th and 19th. The event marked a significant moment for our community, as it officially welcomed young athletes from various local schools and organisations to experience the sport of gymnastics. The response was overwhelming. We had over 50 kids who tried out the session, including students from Luyolo Primary School and Jabulani Safe Hub and Tladi Community Hall. The turnout was far beyond what I had anticipated, and it was incredible to see so many eager children excited to try gymnastics for the first time. The local community in Soweto was buzzing with energy as children and parents alike came together to support this new venture. For many of these kids, gymnastics was something they had never considered before. The lack of access to such sports in the area has meant that opportunities like this are rare. One of the most touching moments came when the principal of Luyolo Primary School shared that she had also once done gymnastics but had to stop due to the high costs associated with the sport. It was a reminder of why it's so important to create accessible spaces for young people to pursue their passions. Financial Challenges and Struggles Gymnastics is an expensive sport. We're dealing with high costs for equipment, leotards, and travel for competitions. It's a constant struggle, especially in a marginalised community like Soweto. The parents want their children to have the best opportunities, but they often can't afford the expenses involved in the sport. And when competition season comes around, the financial burden only increases. Parents are shocked by the costs of required uniforms, including club tracksuits, leotards, and province-required apparel. We are doing everything we can to make it work with limited resources, but there is a lot we still need — better equipment, leotards, and more funding for competitions. Despite all of this, the kids are excited and passionate about gymnastics. It's amazing to see their enthusiasm and dedication, and I know that with the right resources, they can reach their full potential. Looking Ahead: Growing the Club and Making an Impact My goal for this year is to grow the club, both in numbers and in skill. I want to ensure that every child who joins the club has the opportunity to compete in competitions and continue developing their skills. I also want to introduce boys to the sport, especially in aerobic gymnastics, and create a welcoming environment for all young athletes. The community has been incredibly supportive, and I believe that with time and effort, we can turn this club into a beacon of excellence in Soweto. We want to ensure that the kids have access to the sport, no matter their financial background, and that they can grow into confident, disciplined individuals. Through gymnastics, I've gained so much: confidence, discipline, and the strength to fight for myself. I want to provide the same opportunities for the next generation. I hope that, with sponsorships and community support, we can continue to grow the sport and inspire future champions in Soweto. Cedars Gymnastics Club's Gia Georgia and Mikah Vlotman practice during the SA Gym Games at Wynberg Military Base. Achieving this level of competition for young people requires resources, hard work, and dedication. Image: Picture: Fuad Esack Challenges and Hope for the Future While the excitement was palpable, the event also brought to light the financial challenges many families face. During the tryouts, it became clear that some parents were hesitant to pay the fees because of the high costs associated with gymnastics. For many, the struggle to pay the minimum monthly commitment fee is a constant challenge. And with competition season approaching, the costs of things like leotards, tracksuits, and travel expenses are adding another layer of concern. But despite these financial barriers, the parents and children have been incredibly supportive. The potential for this sport in Soweto is immense. The community's enthusiasm fuels my commitment to making gymnastics more accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Jennifer Mdluli is a passionate radio broadcaster, Head coach and Founder of Emerald Gymnastics Club, and facilitator dedicated to youth and community development. She is a member of Activate!
The Star
29-04-2025
- Health
- The Star
The Magic of Love: Raising a Child with Autism
Jennifer Mdluli | Published 4 hours ago With support, resources, and community understanding, children with autism can lead happy, meaningful lives, and their families can feel empowered to advocate for change, says the writer. Image: File April is Autism Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about autism, promoting understanding, and advocating for the inclusion of individuals on the spectrum. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects an individual's ability to communicate, interact socially, and engage in typical behaviours. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 100 children worldwide are affected by autism, but local studies in South Africa show a prevalence rate of between 0.08% to 2%. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning its symptoms can vary widely, from mild to severe, and each child with autism experiences it uniquely. Despite its prevalence, autism remains widely misunderstood, and many children, especially in underprivileged communities, struggle to access the support and resources they need. Autism Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to challenge stereotypes, educate the public, and ensure that children with autism have the opportunity to thrive. One such story is that of Nompumelelo Matshoba, a single mother and a dedicated member of Activate! Change Drivers, raising a beautiful child with autism in a community where awareness and resources are scarce. Her journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, showcases the resilience of families navigating a system that often overlooks or misinterprets the complexities of autism. In many underprivileged communities, autism is a largely taboo subject, and children on the spectrum are often left without the support they need to thrive. This is particularly evident in South Africa, where autism is still an under-discussed condition, especially among black communities. Moreover, the financial burden of raising a child with autism can be overwhelming, with specialised care and education often beyond the reach of many. The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Intervention of most critical aspects of autism are the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. According to the World Health Organization, early identification of autism, especially within the first two years of a child's life, can significantly improve their development and overall well-being. However, this is not always easy to achieve, especially when there is a shortage of trained professionals to diagnose autism. In a media statement, Minister Dlamini emphasises that the first 1 000 days of a child's life are crucial for cognitive and emotional development. Early childhood development services can play a pivotal role in identifying autism early on, allowing parents to access the necessary resources and treatments. However, a woman in Gugulethu, Western Cape, explained, 'My child was diagnosed with autism at the age of four by an American doctor who was visiting South Africa. Before, I had consulted with many doctors who could not pinpoint the problem'. Moreover, Nompumelelo's experience does not mirror these interventions but that of many parents in South Africa: the lack of trained professionals, coupled with the scarcity of support services, means that many children with autism are groundlessly diagnosed or misdiagnosed until much later. Challenges Faced in Schools Autism South Africa (ASA) highlights the significant barriers faced by children with autism in the South African educational system. These include the lack of specialised training for teachers in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the lack of tailored learning approaches for children with autism. For many parents, the educational system presents another significant challenge, and schools follow a one-size-fits-all curriculum. A child who needs an individualised learning plan tailored to their specific needs may find this challenging. Nompumelelo shares, ''Finding the right school for my child has been one of the hardest things I have done. Many autism schools are not financially accessible. ''The fees can go beyond R15 000 a month, which is far too much for most families, including mine. It is heartbreaking because I want the best for my child, but these financial barriers only add to the emotional and psychological stress we are already carrying. It is not just about finding a school, it is about ensuring my child has the best environment.'' Furthermore, society often perpetuates the misconception that all autistic children are ''high-functioning'' or have extraordinary abilities. In reality, most children with autism face daily challenges, particularly in areas such as communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. These misconceptions can lead to even heightened stigmatisation, further isolating children who don't fit the media's portrayal of autism. The Beauty of a Super Mom Despite the obstacles, Nompumelelo has channelled her experiences into advocacy and grassroots change. In the nine years since her daughter's diagnosis, Nompumelelo has learned invaluable lessons about patience, understanding, and the importance of seeing the world from her daughter's perspective. ''You never get the same child twice,'' she reflects. ''Everything can be normal one minute, and then she might have a tantrum due to sensory overload. You are always trying to figure out what is wrong.'' Her journey has cultivated her commitment to creating spaces where children, particularly those from underprivileged communities, can receive the support they need. Nompumelelo's organisation, Ausome Heroes, runs various programmes, including Autism Awareness Month, to raise awareness and provide a supportive environment for children on the spectrum. Programmes such as holiday activities, aftercare, awareness walks, talks, and dialogues in churches and local schools in Soweto have partnered with Jaggas Cycles; cycling for change in support of autism, and autism awareness walk are designed to help children and their families feel seen, understood, and supported. The emotional and physical toll of raising a child with autism is undeniable. Parents are urged to seek support groups, professional counselling, and peer support to avoid burnout. Organisations like Autism South Africa and the Association for Autism offer parent support networks and workshops to address caregiver wellness. With support, resources, and community understanding, children with autism can lead happy, meaningful lives, and their families can feel empowered to advocate for change. * Jennifer Mdluli is a passionate radio broadcaster, Head Coach and Founder of Emerald Gymnastics Club, and facilitator dedicated to youth and community development.
