The Houghton Hotel, a five-star urban property in Johannesburg, recently announced that it would continue its partnership with Afrika Tikkun to offer the Youth Employment Services (YES) Hospitality programme this year.
Afrika Tikkun is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering youth in underprivileged communities across South Africa.
The programme aims to equip youth through industry-specific specialised training with practical skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the world of hospitality.
Each year, 20 selected students are given the opportunity to spend 12 months at The Houghton Hotel, where they undergo immersive training across various departments, including front office, spa, finance/procurement, food and beverage, maintenance, and HR admin.
The rotational approach enables students to gain a holistic understanding of the different facets of the hospitality business.
Since its inception in 2019, the initiative has provided opportunities for 88 young people.
“The programme seeks to dispel any apprehension and nurture self-assurance among the 21- to 35-year-olds in our community. The effects of our efforts transcend the boundaries of both workplaces and homes, as we establish foundational support systems that bolster confidence, promote social betterment, offer learnerships, and provide introductory work exposure. These initiatives serve as the keys that unlock the path to an autonomous and economically empowered life,” said Jaco Minnaar, CEO of The Houghton Hotel.
Aspiring candidates can apply through the Afrika Tikkun website or visit Afrika Tikkun Centres in Alexandra, Orange Farm, Braamfontein, Diepsloot, and Mfuleni for enquiries and applications.
Sweet Remedies success story
Mukundi Mphohoni, a standout participant of the programme, is an example of the triumphs of the YES programme.
After completing the programme and gaining insights from placements in the finance and procurement departments, Mphohoni founded Sweet Remedies.
Her business, established in July 2021, specialises in supplying sweets for hotels (including The Houghton Hotel where her business is based), parties, events, gifting, and personal enjoyment.
Mukundi shared her success story: “My business has been operating for the past two years and counting. The YES programme played a crucial role in refining my business acumen and skills, enabling me to run my business both within and beyond the hotel sector.”
