Bighearts Africa and GRDM are extending their YES Programme partnership in 2025 after successful youth placements across multiple municipal departments, with a focus on structured mentorship, skills development, and sustainable employment pathways.
*Building on proven impact in 2023–2024 to scale YES placements, mentorship, and employment pathways across the Garden Route.* **Garden Route District, Western Cape** — Bighearts Africa is pleased to confirm the continuation and expansion of our partnership with the **Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM)** in 2025. Following two years of successful collaboration through the **YES Youth Programme**, we’re gearing up to create even more quality work opportunities and long-term career pathways for young people across the district. ## What we achieved together in 2023–2024 With GRDM’s support, **30+ youth** gained hands-on experience across multiple departments, including **EPWP, IDP, Traffic, IT, Waste Management, Tourism, and Records**. These placements not only delivered real value to municipal teams, they also helped participants build the confidence, skills, and references needed to move forward. ## Why this partnership matters At Bighearts Africa, we back **opportunity + mentorship** as a practical route to social mobility. Our goal is simple: every young person should have the chance to earn meaningful experience, develop in-demand skills, and chart a path into sustained work. This work is strengthened by the people who make it happen. A special recognition goes to **Christine de Wet**, our host liaison, whose relationship-building and steady support help both hosts and youth succeed from day one. ## Our 2025 focus - **Enhanced training & mentorship:** Structured, quality mentorship to improve job retention and career growth. - **Workforce development:** Skills aligned to local needs so youth can contribute meaningfully to service delivery and community priorities. - **Sustainable employment pathways:** Stronger links between young talent and employers to support long-term hiring. Let’s build on 2024’s momentum and unlock even greater opportunity across the Garden Route. --- ## Youth stories from the Garden Route ### Olivia Goosen — Confidence, skills, and a path forward Placed initially in **Solid Waste (Knysna Municipality)** for data capturing and later supporting the **Traffic** department, Olivia broadened her skills across administration and public engagement. She learned to respond professionally to emails, handle traffic enquiries, and work more efficiently in Excel. With the patient guidance of **Natalie Salmons** and **Randall Bower**, Olivia found her voice at work: > “I used to be shy, but now I’m not afraid to take the lead.” Olivia is now contributing to her family’s household costs and is aiming to study **administrative management** next. ### Jay-dene Botha — From listless days to purposeful work Before YES, Jay-dene struggled with idle days and little direction. A placement in the **Property Section at GRDM** changed the script. Under a supervisor she describes as “an exceptional role model,” Jay-dene saw what high standards and calm leadership look like. She now arrives at work with confidence and leaves with pride—while helping her mom with monthly bills. > “It feels good knowing I’m making things easier for her.” ### Lutho Kemele — Dreams for the future, revived Armed with a **Diploma in Business Management**, Lutho still found doors hard to open—until his placement at **Mossel Bay Municipality**. From **business licensing** to **data capturing**, he threw himself into learning and credits mentors **Lukhanyo, Mabatho, and Ntombifuthi** for the push and belief that accelerated his growth. > “This programme gave me a new outlook on life.” Lutho is saving, improving things at home, and planning toward **property ownership** and **entrepreneurship**. ### Angelo Manho — Work experience and a voice for community Angelo joined YES after many unsuccessful job applications—often blocked by not yet having a driver’s licence. At the **Power Station Department (George municipal buildings)**, he built practical workplace skills and a deeper understanding of community needs, supported by mentor **Stephan Blok**. He’s now contributing to household essentials every month and paying it forward at home. > “I’ve learned what people are struggling with—and how our work can help.” --- **Featured image caption:** All role-players in the Bighearts Africa YES Programme with host liaison **Christine de Wet** and the GRDM team, formerly led by **Executive Manager Trix Holtzhausen**. *Interested in partnering with the YES Youth Programme or hosting a candidate?* Visit our programme page to learn more and get involved.