The disabled learners in Melrose, Johannesburg North, benefited from the latest Work Readiness Event which kicked off once again in the new schooling term on Tuesday, 3 August 2021.
While the benefits of hiring persons with disabilities may be widely acknowledged, demystifying, and highlighting the largely marginalised disability sector as well as the sourcing and accessing of relevant skills within this sector remains a challenge.
Adhering to strict COVID-19 protocols, 50 Grade 11 and 12 students heard from industry experts about how to prepare for life beyond school. Topics included how to handle a job interview, drafting of a winning CV and more about accessing university for students with disabilities.
Event sponsor for the day, Boikgantsho Consulting & Events (BCE) Institute, shared with students about opportunities for future applicants looking to work at this diverse and continuously developing insurance company.
Finance Manager for BCEI, Mxolisi Nkutha shared with the students his previous experience with St Vincent School for the Deaf, recounting back to when his aunt used to attend the school, and he would visit her on weekends. He thanked Principal Ingrid Parkin for motivating the students to consider territory education and setting an example as a successful professional who is also deaf.
Mxolisi stated, “My aunt matriculated in 1999 and went on to go to college. After qualifying she went on to work in big name companies. It just shows that with a disability, you can do anything. In terms of careers, there are many different opportunities. Absolutely anyone can make it! As the sponsor of today’s event and as a company in general, we would like to continuously support inclusion and hope to say many of you employed at our company in the future.”
