YOUTH BRIGADES STEERED TOWARD NEW CAREER PATHS

By Sipho Ncube.

• ⁠Gauteng Department of Social Development collaborates with partner departments to prepare Youth Brigades for post-contract opportunities.
• Engagement focused on employment pathways, skills development, entrepreneurship, and career counselling.
• Brigades recognised for their vital role in service delivery, community trust-building, and raising awareness of government programmes.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with the Departments of Employment & Labour, Public Works & Infrastructure, and Enterprise Development, this week engaged the Sawubona Mhlali Service Delivery Brigades to explore exit job opportunities and skills development pathways.
The contracts for the Sawubona Mhlali brigades are ending on 31 August 2025. These brigades have been strategically deployed in communities to connect residents with government services, address social needs, and raise awareness on Departmental services.

Director Tsakani Maluleke, from the Directorate of HIV and AIDS & EPWP expressed appreciation for the Brigades’ contribution in enhancing service delivery across all programmes of the department.
“The services rendered across the corridors are noted and applauded. The department has greatly benefited from your efforts in reaching vulnerable groups and strengthening service delivery,” said Maluleke. She added that the brigades have been “the eyes and ears” of the department, helping identify community challenges, promoting available programmes, and rebuilding trust between residents and government.

Mr Keketso Rabotho from the Department of Employment and Labour’s Soweto office cautioned the brigades to be vigilant when seeking jobs. “Beware of scammers and always verify information through our official channels, such as labour.gov.za,” he advised.

Mr Thabo Chuene from Enterprise Development encouraged brigades to be innovative and take charge of their lives. They must look around their communities and find business ideas that can sustain themselves while rebuilding and uplifting communities. He shared that Enterprise Development is available to support and link brigades interested in starting small businesses with resources. The unit offers free workshops.

The engagement session, held at the Orlando Community Hall, focused on employment opportunities, skills development, and career counselling. It forms part of an ongoing initiative to empower and prepare young people across the province for sustainable opportunities beyond their service contracts.
Similar engagements were rolled out in all five corridors of Gauteng.