PULE’S LIFE TRANSFORMED BY YOUTH BRIGADE PROGRAM

By Lawrence Mashabela

•⁠ ⁠The Youth Brigade Programme is transforming lives by providing unemployed young people with valuable work experience and skills within government structures.
•⁠ ⁠Pule Mokobori from Tembisa is one of many youths who have regained hope and purpose through temporary placement in the Department of Social Development.
•⁠ ⁠Despite the challenges of job insecurity, beneficiaries like Mokobori remain optimistic, urging government to consider making such programmes permanent for greater impact.

Since its inception in 2023, the Youth Brigade Programme (Sawubona Mhlali) initiative has opened doors for many unemployed young people across the Gautend Province. One of the beneficiaries of this programme is Pule Mokobori, who joined in February 2024.

Mokobori, who is currently assisting in the Auxiliary and Transport unit, praises the programme, describing it as a commendable initiative thoughtfully designed to address the challenges of youth unemployment. He said the programme has made a significant impact on his life and deepened his understanding of how government works.

“I don’t want to lie; the programme has helped me a lot. It has given me the opportunity and experience that I’ve always wanted. It’s changed my perspective about how government works,” he said.

The 35-year-old from Tembisa said that after passing his matric in 2013, he was unable to further his studies due to financial constraints and struggled to find stable employment. Despite these challenges, Mokobori remains hopeful that his life will continue to improve. He said he could hardly believe it when he was called to sign the appointment letter for participation in the Youth Brigade Programme.

“At the time when we applied, I wasn’t very optimistic about the programme. I thought it might be another election ploy, and I couldn’t believe it when they called me. But I was so excited, as I knew I would now be able to put food on the table for my family and children,” he explained.

He added that he approaches his work with passion, believing strongly that hard work yields results. “I always make sure that I go the extra mile in every task I am given,” he said.

Mokobori also expressed concern that despite the value youth brigades bring to their roles, their contracts remain temporary. He is appealing to government to consider making their appointments permanent.

He emphasised that permanent employment would not only bring job security but would also go a long way in reducing youth unemployment. “It’s difficult my brother, because when the contract ends, you think about being unemployed again, and it’s not a nice feeling,” he said.

Working with the Department has given Mokobori a sense of purpose and allowed him to develop a wide range of skills. He has since completed certificates in Advanced Writing Skills, Ethics in the Public Service, Know and Live Our Constitution, Basic Writing Skills, Introduction to Financial Management and Budgeting, and Introduction to Project Management.

Mokobori remains determined to pursue his dream of completing a qualification in Tourism Management. He believes that perseverance and patience are key to success. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Gauteng Department of Social Development for the opportunity and exposure, stating that the experience will help him unlock future opportunities.