Afrika Tikkun, a distinguished organisation dedicated to empowering South Africa’s underprivileged communities, has been honoured as a finalist in the Best NGO category at the CSI Legacy Awards. This recognition celebrates its transformative efforts in uplifting youth through innovative development programmes.
Marc Lubner, Acting Group CEO, emphasises that the nomination underscores Afrika Tikkun’s commitment to addressing systemic challenges such as youth unemployment and educational inequities. Central to this is the organisation’s Skills Development and Placement (Head Start) Programme, which incorporates vocational training, mentorship, and psychosocial support to create a comprehensive development framework.
The Head Start Programme was conceived in response to the glaring lack of opportunities for young people in vulnerable communities. Recognising the multifaceted nature of these challenges, Afrika Tikkun adopted a holistic model. Beyond equipping youth with technical skills, the programme acknowledges the profound impact of trauma and integrates psychosocial assessments, such as the Odyssey Test, to ensure participants are adequately prepared for personal and professional success. Furthermore, the programme’s disability inclusion initiative reinforces Afrika Tikkun’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities.
The impact of this work is evident in the numbers. Over the past year alone, Afrika Tikkun has trained more than 2,000 young individuals, facilitated internships, and secured employment for over 200 participants. These accomplishments are built upon a legacy of supporting over 325,000 children and youth throughout its 30-year history. Lubner highlights that the programme’s success is not solely measured by employment statistics but by the lasting empowerment it brings to participants, many of whom return to contribute to their communities as volunteers or mentors.
Afrika Tikkun’s recognition at the CSI Legacy Awards reflects not just its achievements but its philosophy of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Lubner notes that the organisation actively shares its intellectual property with other entities aligned with its vision, amplifying the impact of its efforts. The awards platform also serves as an opportunity to inspire new partnerships and draw attention to the importance of Corporate Social Investment (CSI) in driving meaningful social change.
One of the programme’s standout features is its emphasis on partnerships with local businesses and governments. By aligning its training modules with the skills requirements of industries, Afrika Tikkun ensures a seamless transition from education to employment for its participants. This approach has not only enriched the lives of beneficiaries but also strengthened relationships within the communities it serves. Many families express profound gratitude, and the organisation takes pride in the growing number of alumni who return to inspire and mentor the next generation.
Afrika Tikkun’s ambitions extend far beyond its current accomplishments. Lubner envisions expanding the programme to reach more youth across Africa, supported by the organisation’s growing presence in regions like the UK, USA, and Netherlands. Digitisation is also a key focus, with an internationally accredited Early Childhood Development (ECD) app already gaining traction across the continent. Through such initiatives, Afrika Tikkun seeks to scale its impact and deepen its engagement with governments and communities.
The journey has not been without challenges, but the stories of transformation fuel Afrika Tikkun’s resolve. Lubner reflects on the inspiring moments when graduates of the programme share their success stories, reaffirming the organisation’s mission. The dedication of Afrika Tikkun’s staff, many of whom were once beneficiaries, has been integral to its success. This spirit of resilience and reciprocity defines the organisation’s ethos.
Afrika Tikkun’s recognition as a finalist in the Best NGO category at the CSI Legacy Awards is a testament to its unwavering commitment to creating lasting change. As it looks to the future, the organisation calls upon businesses, governments, and individuals to join hands in empowering the next generation. Through funding, mentorship, and opportunities, stakeholders can play a pivotal role in advancing Afrika Tikkun’s vision of a society where every young person has the tools to thrive.
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