This includes the ability to deploy operationally by parachute into any rural and urban environment. Now, TimesLive reports that the first and only SAPS Special Task Force female officer has qualified. SAPS is keeping the 32-year old’s identity withheld for security purposes but still wishes to celebrate the trailblazing efforts of this elite officer.

SAPS SPECIAL TASK FORCE FEMALE OFFICER

Training for the STF entails a rigid 18-month programme, ensuring members are trained to a requisite level for high-risk incidents. Of the 525 members who applied, only 150 made it to pre-selection. From there, 110 entered the STF training programme. And a half later, a mere 11 officers completed the training and were welcomed into the STF ranks.

“Today we introduce the nation to the first SAPS Special Task Force female officer. She is the first in history of the organisation to successfully completed the elite Special Task Force programme without any amendments. Completing the intensive training programme is no small feat, as it is designed to test one’s physical and mental capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Amanda van Wyk last Friday (9 August 2024).

PERSONAL TRAINER AND RUGBY PLAYER

The SAPS Special Task Force female officer says she knew she was destined to serve the country when she studied to become a personal trainer while playing rugby. She’s a self-confessed fitness fanatic and adrenaline junkie but is currently working towards a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She joined the service in 2012 and fondly refers to her fellow STF colleagues as ‘brothers’ now, thanks to their shared camaraderie during training.

“I wake up with a smile on my face, even when I get woken up in the early hours of the morning. My job excites me because the higher the risk, the higher the reward,” said the SAPS Special Task Force female officer. She also encourages all women to be their authentic selves and to never doubt their capability.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE FIRST EVER STF FEMALE OFFICER?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. You can also send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Don’t forget to follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest social media updates.

THE GIG ECONOMY IN SOUTH AFRICA

According to Capitec CEO Gerrie Fourie, the bank doled out R1 billion to multiple-income earners in 2023. This represents a 93% growth over the previous year. Moreover, one in three Gen Zs (those aged from 7 to 27) have multiple side hustles. Therefore, extrapolating current Stats SA figures for our labour force, that’s roughly 4-million South Africans.

Globally, side hustlers are thriving, too. 12% of the global workforce participates in the online gig economy. As a result, this new type of work is growing three-times faster than regular workforces. It is anticipated that more than 50% of US will be in the gig economy by 2027.

WHAT TYPE OF JOBS ARE THERE?

Anything and everything. The gig economy in South Africa is all about on-demand contracts. It needs lawyers, writers, accountants, actors, designers, developers, social-media influencers, photographers, nurses, content creators and anything else you can think of. Moreover, there is big opportunity in South Africa’s gig economy for platforms that cater to this work profile. 

If you’re a company looking for a side hustler, where do you go? Also, there’s a financial element that’s often overlooked. Stuff like invoicing, billing, tax compliance, etc – that adds complexity to this otherwise informal work. That’s where local start-up Craft can help …

GET PAID FOR YOUR CRAFT

Craft enables side hustlers in the gig economy in South Africa to send professional, automated invoices. The site also has a convenient dashboard where users can see all their invoices and income. Soon they will offer billing in other currencies and tax solutions for freelancers, too.

The latter is made possible by having all your invoices in one convenient place to prove your income. This is also helpful if you need approval for large loans for a house or car. The side hustle gig economy in South Africa appears to have finally landed. So make sure you side hustle with the best of them.

NEXT READ: It’s GOOD news this week for SASSA SRD beneficiaries

Do you participate in the side hustle gig economy? Do you have advice for any other freelancers? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES FROM RAY LEATHERN

JOB SEEKERS IN SOUTH AFRICA

It’s completely understandable that job seekers in South Africa will move to high employment areas, thus creating a unique semigration pattern in the country. According to Business Tech, worryingly though, unemployment sits above 20% in all nine of South Africa’s provinces.

However, there are large discrepancies between the best and worst provinces for job seekers in South Africa. Check out the list below from best to worst:

Delving into the data on job seekers in South Africa, it’s safe to say there are some real struggles taking place in Eastern Cape, North West, Free State and Mpumalanga. No wonder many job seekers in South Africa alight from those provinces hoping to find work opportunities in different parts of the country. The Western Cape is province you’re most likely to find a new job, owing to the lowest unemployment numbers and the fact the rate is dropping year-on-year.

WESTERN CAPE IS TOPS

Gauteng and Western Cape, South Africa’s economic heavyweights, receive the highest number of semigration in-flow each year. This makes sense as they both offer the largest number of job vacancies in the Mzansi, according to CareerJunction. However, Gauteng is unable to successfully employee job seekers despite having more vacancies compared to the Western Cape. In some instances you may be better off staying in your home province than trying to make it in Gauteng.

NEXT READ: Upcoming SASSA grant payments for May 2024 (and beyond)

Are you one of the 8-million job seekers in South Africa? How have you found job prospects in your province and would you move to better your chances of employment? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES FROM RAY LEATHERN

In a great report by Business Tech, using research from CareerJunction’s advertised vacancies, it has analysed the labour market for the last year. So, now we know what the most-in-demand jobs in 2024 are and how you can position yourself to get them.

SOUTH AFRICAN JOBS IN 2024

Investigating professions with the highest demand and best hiring trends over time, these five jobs in 2024 are where the money is at:

• Business and Management.
• Finance.
• Information Technology (IT).
• Sales.
• Administration and Office Support.

Interestingly, according to CareerJunction, large job cuts in the IT sector has seen demand for jobs in 2024 slow. IT has been on a steady drop from first to third since 2022. Business and Management professionals and Finance experts are now the most in-demand hires in South Africa.

WHAT DOES BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT ENTIAL?

In the broadest sense, it means people who can take care of business and manage a workforce. It’s all about having great leadership skills because the buck stops with you. There are several excellent Business and Management courses out there, so, enrol in one and you’ll be on the fast-track to a gainful career.

Moreover, within this sector, the most advertised vacancies are for:

• Middle/Department Manager.
• Senior Manager.
• Executive.
• Team Leader.
• Supervisor.

Popular job vacancies listed under Finance include:

• Financial/Project Accountants.
• Bookkeepers.
• Accounts Payable/Receivable professionals.
• Purchasing and Procurement professionals.
• Cost and Management Accountants.
• Sales.

Sales consultants help sustain a company by keeping it profitable and competitive. More often than not you don’t need any skills to secure a sales position. You just need to be able to sell and graft incredibly hard, often working for a small basic salary and relying on larger commission from deals. If you’re a young, ambitious job seeker, you could do a lot worse than cutting your teeth and opening future doors through sales.

NEXT READ: Upcoming SASSA grant payments for May 2024 (and beyond)

What do you think of these most-in-demand jobs in 2024? Are you a job seeker looking to better your future through these careers? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES FROM RAY LEATHERN

Looking closely at Google info, checking salaries on websites like Indeed and ZipRecruiter, and looking at Indeed job ads until December 2023 showed really interesting job choices. Taking a good look at this info found some cool job paths.

Game Streaming: The Pinnacle of Earnings without a Degree

Surpassing all other professions on the list, game streaming emerges as the highest-paying job accessible without a college degree, boasting impressive earnings ranging between $136,470 to $170,000 (R2,515,524 to R3,133,576 ). This role presents an opportunity for individuals to monetize their live-streaming hobby, transcending conventional employment avenues.

ALSO READ: FAKE UNISA Bachelor of Education degree holders nabbed at SACE

Freelance Writing: Unleashing Creative Freedom

In the second position, freelance writers can earn between $60,990 to $156,000 (R1,124,216 to R2,875,516). Google’s data shows significant interest in this job, which provides flexibility and creativity. There are over 900 job openings on Indeed for this profession.

ALSO READ: Where to check South African qualifications and degrees when in doubt

Affiliate Marketing: Accessibility and Lucrative Prospects

Coming in third, affiliate marketing specialists have the potential to earn between $72,620 to $142,450 (R1,338,611 to R 2,626,770). Moreover, there are abundant opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds and skill sets in this field.

Content Creation: The Art of Storytelling for Profit

In fourth place are content creators who might make between $115,730 to $128,500 (R 2,136,061 to R 2,370,830). There are 787 job spots on Indeed for this job. It’s great for people who are good at telling stories and creating stuff, captivating audiences across diverse media platforms.

ALSO READ: Weird news: 12-year-old graduates college with five degrees (Video)

Mid-tier Opportunities: Virtual Assistance and Social Media Management

Virtual assistants stand at the midpoint, offering potential earnings ranging from $74,660 to $123,180 (R1,376,192 to R 2,270,552 ). This role marks the most sought-after position on the list, with a staggering 3,930 job openings and over 3 million Google searches.

Social media managers follow suit, with earning potentials spanning from $64,370 to $113,000 (R 1,186,519 to R 2,082,906 ). Boasting 767 job openings on Indeed, this role requires no degree and focuses on establishing and nurturing a brand’s online presence.

Evolving Careers in Social Media: Influencers and Their Influence

In sixth place are influencers who can make between $65,098 to $104,100 (R1,199,938 to R1,918,854). They make jobs for themselves on social media by sharing their personality and connecting with their followers.

Creative Planning in Events and Graphic Design: Professions to Pursue

Event planners secure the eighth spot, with earnings from $60,759 to $101,000 (R1,119,958 to R1,861,712), emphasizing creativity and organizational skills. Meanwhile, graphic designers, placed ninth, earn between $58,130 to $97,850 (R1,071,498 to R1,803,649), presenting ample opportunities with 1,860 available positions.

ALSO READ: Biltong: Meet the SA doctorate with a ‘BILTONG’ degree

Customer Support: Essential Roles with Competitive Earnings

Closing the top ten, customer support representatives earn salaries ranging from $52,200 to $71,700 (R 962,192 to R1,321,631). With 446 job openings on Indeed and over 520K Google searches, this role showcases demand and competitive salaries without the need for a degree.

The current job market ushers in a new phase of opportunities. Additionally, it showcases many careers. These professions demonstrate that dedication, skill, and passion can bring in substantial income without requiring a college degree. Moreover, as individuals progress in their careers, these discoveries highlight various paths to achieve success and maintain financial stability.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY DUMANI MOYO

If being able to spend time in some of the most exciting places on the planet sounds like something you want to do, continue reading.

CABIN CREW

The award-winning Qatar Airways has announced that it will be in South Africa next month, on a cabin crew recruitment drive.

The Middle East-based carrier is currently accepting cabin crew applications from interested applicants.  Interviews are scheduled to be held in Johannesburg in January 2024. 

However, applications for these vacancies must be made online. These must be submitted online by 9 January 2024.

ALSO READ: Best Schengen countries for SA nationals to obtain visas? See here

GLOBAL EXPANSION

As Qatar Airways’ route network continues to expand, the company has exciting opportunities for talented individuals to join its award-winning cabin crew team.

Qatar Airways currently flies to more than 160 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport. The airport was voted by Skytrax as the ‘World’s Best Airport’ in 2021 and 2022 consecutively.

The carrier is searching for highly motivated individuals to deliver its signature hospitality and world-class cabin service, creating memorable experiences for passengers.

VACANCY REQUIREMENTS

To be successful in this role, cabin crew applicants will have to comply with the following requisites:

Minimum age of 21

Minimum arm reach of 212 cm

High School Certificate

Fluent in English (written and spoken)

Exceptional interpersonal skills

Passion for service and an ability to work as part of a multicultural team

Excellent health and fitness

A willingness to relocate to Doha, Qatar.

For more information and online applications see here.

ALSO READ: Want to work in The Netherlands? See here

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY LORNE PHILPOT

ALSO READ: Hip-hop music reaches its 50th anniversary in August

More than 20 years after the song’s debut on the singer’s first album, the song has achieved a spike in recent popularity. A cover by Luke Combs has more than 13 million views, and has been partially credited for the song’s current recognition.

ALSO READ: Moon songs? Music about the moon

Who still remembers jiving to Tracy Chapman, or serenading someone with a ballad?

Here’s more about the song’s history, and why it has become part of so many South Africans and their memory groove.

‘Fast Car’ wins Country Music Award for 2023

Tracy Chapman’s famous song ‘Fast Car’ has won the Country Music Award for 2023, according to Billboard.

Previous winners included the songs ‘Buy Dirt’ by Jordan Davis for last year, while it was Luke Combs’ album that won the top album spot for 2022.

Recognition for the Chapman-written track comes after Luke Combs’ cover pushed the song back into the mainstream playlists.

About ‘Fast Car’

The song ‘Fast Car’ was first released in 1988, where it quickly became a hit as one of the first songs on Chapman’s debut album.

ALSO READ: South African music in FIVE great documentaries

It’s the song that made her famous, a powerful yet soft acoustic ballad song that many South Africans will remember. According to Far Out Magazine. the song was part of her night’s performance when she was first discovered as an artist.

At the time of its release, Tracy Chapman was still considered a banned act in South Africa under apartheid laws. This didn’t stop the song from achieving any local fame!

ALSO READ: Amy Winehouse once ‘insulted’ Zulu King Zwelithini

Recent covers of the song by Luke Combs have shot the song back into public recognition.

The song’s Country Music Award as Song of the Year for 2023 makes Chapman the first black female recipient of the award.

[Watch] The Song Here

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX J COYNE

Social grants are an important part of many lives, and grant fraud comes in many different forms. If someone claims your SASSA card (or social grant) for themselves, then it is illegal and should be reported to the grant agency immediately.

ALSO READ: SASSA: Find important forms HERE online!

Here’s what you should know about different types of social grant fraud, and what to do if you are a victim of these tricks.

SASSA: Fraud doesn’t pay

According to the South African Social Security Agency, they will ‘leave no stone unturned’ to find and combat social grant fraud.

ALSO READ: SASSA: How can I contact SASSA?

Fraud doesn’t pay, and carries potential criminal imprisonment if you are found guilty.

Victims of social grant fraud do not receive (or get to use) their social grants in the way SASSA legally intended.

What is SASSA fraud?

Fraud is defined as misleading someone with false intent for your own financial or moral gains.

Social grant fraud includes claiming social grants that aren’t entitled to you. It is illegal to claim a social grant with false information!

ALSO READ: SASSA and LOTTO: Is it illegal to buy a ticket with my grant?

Other forms of SASSA fraud can include not having access to your own money. This could be someone stealing your social grant, or using your SASSA card for themselves.

All foirms of fraud are illegal, and should be reported to the social grant agency and SAPS.

Report social grant fraud here

Social grant fraud can be reported to the National Hotline at this number: +27 80 060 1011

If you (or someone you know) is a potential fraud victim, say something. Reports can be made anonymously through the toll-free number.

ALSO READ: SASSA: Where is my nearest SASSA office?

You are allowed to have rightful, legal access to your own social grant (and card).

Any instances of crime can additionally be reported to SAPS by calling 112 or 10111.

Tell us YOUR thoughts

We love hearing more from The South African readers.

Let us know what you think about social grants, the system, and fraud. If you have any other thoughts, we’d also love to hear them!

Contact us via info@thesouthafrican.com; alternatively you can send us a WhatsApp message on +27 60 011 0211

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

Legitimate job opportunities and scams can be difficult to separate. Scams could lead to forced criminal recruitment, human trafficking, or being forced to sleep with a prospective employer to get the job.

ALSO READ: Catfished: Potential signs of a romance scammer

No, an employer is not allowed to request sex, favors, money for a job application.

Here’s what to know about Southern Africa’s employment scams, and how to dodge the dodgy job ads.

Sex Job SCAMS on the rise

According to government’s Vukuzenzele newsletter, job-seekers are advised to be careful of any job opportunities they aim to apply for. The newsletter says that job scams can lead to forced recruitment for crimes, but could also lead down a path of sex-for-jobs scams.

ALSO READ: LOTTO warns of SMS scammers

Legitimate job opportunities are linked to real companies, but fake job listings will only make the post LOOK like it was real to lure prospective applicants into a trap.

ALSO READ: SASSA warns against website fraud: How to avoid scammers

If someone asks you to sleep with them for a job or work opportunity, it’s your right to refuse and contact law enforcement!

Crimes targeting men and women

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have warned against sex scams using their organisation’s name to claim false job posts.

ALSO READ: SASSA advertising for JOB VACANCIES

It’s not the only company that’s been affected. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) have also warned against similar scams, which aren’t real job opportunities but quick scams to lure people into dangerous situations.

Here’s how to stay safe from fake job opportunties and work posts:

• If you want to apply for work, use only the company’s official and verified website to do so.
• If you see an open job opportunity, contact the company’s head office to make sure that it’s real.
• Never show up to job interviews alone: take a friend, and tell someone where you are going.

Sex for homes or jobs IS ILLEGAL

Anyone who asks you to have sex with them for a job or accommodation is a criminal!

Asking or coercing someone into situations they do not want to be in is considered a crime by international law. Jobs scams shoud be reported to the relevant authorities, including the Department of Labour and South African Police Services.

Report crimes to SAPS

Have you encountered a job scam?

Report the event or listing to SAPS. Visit your nearest station, or call 112 and 10111 to reach the National SAPS dispatch line.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

The South African found that SA’s top YouTuber (Michael Jamison) earned roughly R18.5 million for his channel since 2010. Mihlali Ndamase has more than 20.6 million YouTube views worth money.

ALSO READ: Freelancers: Are South African professionals getting paid enough?

From viral footage of Thabo Bester’s daring escape from Mangaung to The South African’s own YouTube channel, there’s a lot of local content out there.

Want to get paid as a local YouTuber?

ALSO READ: Seven ways to make your mobile data lasts longer

Here’s how local influencers are getting paid, and how to set up your channel for monetisation.

Influencers and the YouTube Partner Program

The YouTube Partner Program is how views and page hits turn into money.

Channels eligible for the Partner Program must:

· Be run or managed by someone over 18

· Have 1, 000 subscribers and 4, 000 watch hours (in 12 months)

· Have no content against YouTube community guidelines

Users have to submit their channel for approval first.

ALSO READ: #Studentlife: Here is how to make some money on YouTube

Approved channels have to maintain consistently good content, or could get specific videos and channels demonetised.

How YouTube’s channel guidelines work

YouTube has strict channel guidelines for influencers.

This is why not everyone is an influencer, and why not all influencers can earn money from their channel.

Community guidelines will looks at things like the channel’s theme and most popular videos.

ALSO READ: VIRAL VIDEO: Funniest and most hilarious moments in SA

Monetised channels have to stick to YouTube’s overall guidelines. Too many “negative” reports on a channel or video can get an entire channel demonetised or users banned.

ALSO READ: South Africa’s Top 10 YouTubers

South African influencers and paying tax

The South African Institute of Professional Accountants cautions influencers to remember that certain earnings, including cash from sites like YouTube, are still subject to tax laws.

Donations, gifts, and sponsorships also have to be cleared through the South African Revenue Service under select conditions.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

Uncertified electricity could be one of the most dangerous hazards in your neighborhood.

All homes should have a Certificate of Compliance (COC) issued by a certified electrician. Without one, all electrical connections could be a potential fire hazard or electrocution risk.

Here’s how to know if your rental or home is safe and compliant with the law.

Certified electricians in South Africa

The Electrical Conformance Board of SA (ECB) regulates all qualified electricians in Southern Africa.

According to statistics, fire damage because of appliances and unregistered professionals have increased six times in the past ten years.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Eskom’s Matla power station on FIRE

All electricians must be registered with the ECB to work on electricity or issue certifications.

While many professionals might claim to be registered, some electrical engineers aren’t qualified (or registered) at all.

ALSO READ: Where to check South African qualifications and degrees when in doubt

Do you have a Certificate of Compliance issued by an electrician?

A Certificate of Compliance (COC) is a legal requirement for safe electrical connections.

Unsafe electrical connections are a potential fire risk, and could put you at risk of electrocution.

Houses require a Certificate of Compliance to be certified safe.

Only a registered electrician can sign off on a legal COC.

ALSO READ: Does leaving appliances plugged in use power?

If you are renting, a landlord or owner must provide a legal COC. If you are the property owner, it’s up to you to ensure that the certification is up to date.

Electrical safety tips

Eskom resources state homes should be examined for loose fixtures, breakages, faulty controls, and any potential electrical overheating.

ALSO READ: Urgent recall for GIZZU Portable Power Stations sold in SA

Appliances as well as fixtures and plugs should be certified by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).

In the event of an electrical malfunction or shock, switch off electricity at the mains immediately, and seek help.

Report illegal connections to Crime Line at 32211 (SMS) or 0860 10111 (phone).

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

Are spaza shops allowed to give credit and sell alcohol?

Here are important questions about SA’s informal shops answered.

What is a spaza shop?

Spaza shops are small businesses usually run from home.

A suggested local bylaw suggests that shops must use at least 60% of the property for residential use, and be no larger than 20m².

How can someone open a spaza shop?

Guidelines from SARS recommend that store owners, even smaller shops, register their business for tax purposes.

Government financial help is available to spazas who are registered with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), and who have a valid trading license.

Registration with the CIPC protects names and trademarks (e.g. “Joe’s Trader”).

ALSO READ: More than 6000 spaza shops assisted with R58 million

Spaza stores can receive governmental support through the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD).

Can a spaza give cash loans?

No, according to the National Credit Act only registered financial institutions, like short-term lenders or banks are allowed to provide cash loans.

ALSO READ: Loan shark in court for contravention of the National Credit Act

Can a spaza sell alcohol?

Yes, but only under certain conditions.

Shops wanting to sell alcohol must apply for a legal liquor license.

ALSO READ: Tavern tragedy: why South Africa needs to tackle underage drinking

Can stores sell cooked food?

Yes, but also only permitted some criteria are met.

A business selling cooked food will need the correct certificates for food preparation, often with a trading license.

ALSO READ: Government blasts “fake news” photo of Spaza shop “expired food victim”

What if I’m not happy with a shop’s product?

The Consumer Protection Act covers goods and services sold in South Africa.

However, most shops buy their goods from other retailers, and re-sell these products.

What happens if you aren’t happy with a product bought from a smaller or informal shop?

Shops can be asked to refund or exchange products in the case of unhappy customers. However product complaints can also be sent to the product maker, listing the batch number and complaint.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

South African freelancers are also in the spotlight. Are local professionals getting paid enough for their services?

The South African Guild of Actors has announced their agreement with the SAG-AFTRA strikes.

ALSO READ: Hollywood actors’ union launches industry-wide strike (thesouthafrican.com)

According to the South African Freelancers Association (SAFREA) Media Industry & Rates Report, as much as 20% of copywriters, editors, and other freelancers listed low rates as their main worry.

Here’s more about the South African freelance industry, including where local freelancers are getting their work from.

What Freelancers Get Paid

Freelancers work on short-term contracts. A freelancer often works for more than one company or business, sometimes full-time or as their side-hustle.

ALSO READ: ‘People dying paupers’: Top actors join fight for royalties, protection (thesouthafrican.com)

Freelancers set their own per-hour, per-word, or per-project rates. Guidelines, like SAFREA’s recommended rates, exist as an industry suggestion for what copywriters, translators, and other professionals should be paid.

According to Payscale, South African copywriters can earn an average hourly rate of R163.

Approximately half of SAFREA copywriters reported to earn more than R21 332 per month.

Yet copywriters and other freelancers say that low rates are one of their main concerns, together with undercutting by others in a competitive industry.

ALSO READ: New national minimum wage – domestic workers receive 21,5% increase (thesouthafrican.com)

Where Freelancers Get Work

More than three out of four freelancers said they were copywriting full-time, while one in four said they were copywriting only part-time (or as their side-hustle).

Freelancer platforms like Upwork and LinkedIn are popular. At least 1 in 5 professionals surveyed by SAFREA, listed one of these platforms or similar as their source of income.

ALSO READ: Professional writing help for South African students (thesouthafrican.com)

At least 32% of professional illustrators, copywriters, and others reported getting most of their work from the corporate sector. About 10% of local copywriters and other professionals reported getting their work from smaller to medium businesses.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY ALEX COYNE

The world went through a dip during the Covid pandemic, and only in the last two years have countries bounced back. This is also evident in the jobs space.

ALSO READ: 21 000 jobs lost in Q1 in SA – these sectors were hardest hit

Nexford University has listed the ten of the best jobs in South Africa if you are looking for a new job, according to it website.

1. Software Engineer

2. Network Administrator

3. Data Scientist

4. Health and Safety Management

5. Accountants

6. Agricultural Engineer

7. Lawyer

8. Business Consultant

9. Hospital Administrator

10. Pilot

The singer has been linked to multiple beautiful women since winning the TV talent competition.

WHO IS KHAYA MTHETHWA?

In 2012,  Khaya Mthethwa won the eighth season of the TV singing talent competition; Idols South Africa, becoming the show’s first-ever black winner.

After releasing his debut single, Move, Khaya won a Metro FM award in the Best Newcomer Category.

ALSO READ: Khaya Mthethwa bemoans sexualisation of moaning video

A self-proclaimed “pastor’s kid,” Khaya returned to his love of gospel music, where he won Clash of The Choirs along with a 20-strong member choir.

Khaya – who has released four studio albums – is a senior pastor at the Oasis Church in Durban. He has also had several TV presenter and actor gigs.

RELATIONSHIP HISTORY

Ntando Kunene

In December 2017, Khaya Mthethwa married former Miss SA Ntando Kunene. At the time, the couple had dated for just three months.

Two years later, the couple – who welcomed a son Oyinkosi – announced their shock split.

According to Khaya, the new marriage was fraught with “challenges” the couple could not overcome.

Nomzamo Mbatha

Before Ntando came into the picture, TimesLive claims Khaya allegedly dated Isibaya actress Nomzamo Mbatha in 2015. The relationship was reportedly serious, with Khaya allegedly paying lobola for the beauty.

ALSO READ: Khaya Mthethwa opens up about post-divorce life

However, the couple reportedly split on bitter terms over allegations Khaya had been seeing Nomzamo’s bestie Jessica on the side.

Nomzamo told Expresso show in 2016: “I have been engaged. Yes, I have had a rock on my finger, and I don’t plan on having a rock on my finger ever again.”

Jessica Nkosi

According to Sunday World, Jessica Nkosi’s alleged fling with Khaya ended her friendship with Nomzamo.

“Oh my God, I can’t believe this is happening,” an emotional Jessica told the publication.

ALSO READ: Gospel star Khaya Mthethwa scammed after performing at an event

Siphosethu Nkosi, Mathapelo Khoza

According to celebrity blogger Khaya Mthethwa has been linked to influencers Mathapelo Khoza and Siphosethu Nkosi in recent months.

The South African comedian – currently on his Off The Record World Tour – shared a peak of his latest adventures.

FEMALE FANS PROPOSE IN COMMENT SECTION

In his latest Instagram post, Trevor is seen in Cannes, France. Joining the Soweto-born star was Former Barcelona football star Cesc Fabregas and RnB singer H.E.R

But all eyes were clearly fixated on the hunky homegrown hottie.

ALSO READ: Trevor Noah: 3 Braided hairstyles we love [photos]

In fact, many adoring fans were keen for Trevor to have their babies, judging by the comments section.

@gracemutoni: “Trevor is my husband. He just doesn’t know it yet”.

@marypujehun: “Look at my baby daddy living his best life…I’m here back in your house in NYC, waiting for you.”

@jacquiaw: “Those cheek dimples are just the best.”

@imdaedae2: “Damn sexy.”

@abigail_peneminaya: “Be my husband.”

ALSO READ: Long lost flame: Trevor’s SA ex gets married [photos]

TREVOR NOAH: WHO IS HE DATING?

Although Trevor Noah loves to keep his romances under lock and key, it’s no secret he is single.

The biracial star has been linked to a bevy of beauties in recent years.

They include

• Model Julianna Herz
• Singer Dua Lipa
• Actress Minka Kelly
• Singer Jordyn Taylor
• Singer Dani Gabriel

ALSO READ: WATCH: Malema warns of anarchy and looting in BBC interview

Employers can evaluate your communication abilities, professionalism, and suitability for the position at the crucial part of the hiring process known as the oral interview. It’s critical to approach with considerable thought if you want to leave a positive impression and improve your chances of success. In this article, we’ll provide you five original ideas to keep in mind to ace your next session.

1.THOROUGHLY RESEARCH THE COMPANY

Before your interview, delve deep into the company’s background, mission, values, and recent news. By demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the organization, you’ll convey genuine interest and commitment. Moreover, researching the company enables you to align your answers with their goals, showcasing how you can contribute to their success.

ALSO READ: WATCH the bombshell interview that saw Eskom axe Andre de Ruyter with immediate effect

2. INTERVIEW CODE: PREPARE AND PRACTICE COMMON QUESTIONS

Even though it’s hard to predict every interview question, it’s crucial to practice your answers to frequently requested topics. Create succinct, intriguing responses that highlight your abilities, accomplishments, and experiences. To make sure your delivery is assured, clear, and organized, practice these responses. Always remember that preparation is the key to lowering anxiety and improving performance.

3. SHOWCASE YOUR UNIQUE VALUE PROPOSITION

During an oral interview, it’s crucial to articulate your unique value proposition. Highlight your strengths, expertise, and accomplishments that align with the job requirements. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have made a positive impact in previous roles, emphasizing your ability to solve problems, work in teams, and adapt to challenges. Differentiating yourself from other candidates will leave a lasting impression.

ALSO READ: Mark Pilgrim’s bittersweet final interview: ‘I want to be well again’

4. DEMONSTRATE ACTIVE LISTENING

Active listening is an often-overlooked skill that can greatly influence the outcome of an oral interview. Pay close attention to the questions and statements, and respond thoughtfully. Show empathy, maintain eye contact, and ask relevant questions for clarification or to show your interest. This not only demonstrates your interpersonal skills but also allows you to provide more targeted responses.

5. INTERVIEW CODE: MAINTAIN PROFESSIONALISM

Oral interviews provide an opportunity to showcase your professionalism and personal brand. Dress appropriately for the role and arrive on time. Maintain a positive attitude, use appropriate language, and display confidence while remaining humble. Be attentive to your body language, maintaining good posture and a friendly demeanor. Remember to express gratitude at the end of the interview, reinforcing your professionalism.

ALSO READ: ‘Podcast and Chill’: Black Coffee interview hits big screen

It takes careful planning, good communication, and a professional attitude to master oral interviews. You may improve your chances of landing your dream job by doing your homework on the firm, practicing typical questions, emphasizing your special value proposition, exhibiting active listening, and remaining professional. To distinguish out from the competition, go into your next oral interview with confidence and highlight your skills and personality.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY BEATRICE NDOSSI

That is, it ought to cultivate the ability to intelligently decide how we want to shape our lives. According to an education philosopher, the aim of education should be to foster human autonomy.

I’m thinking here of a diverse array of scholars. Among them are some of the most influential philosophers of education and educational theorists of the 20th century: the American John Dewey, Brazilian Paulo Freire and Indian Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Yet there’s little evidence that their views have played any significant role in shaping the global contemporary education sector, including the tertiary sector.

Education philosopher insists that educational institutions are in darkness

If these scholars are correct, universities and educational institutions too often don’t understand what they are doing. It’s a shocking indictment of the higher education sector. After all, educational institutions are in the business (or should be) of fostering understanding.

I am the director of the Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics, located in Rhodes University’s Department of Philosophy in South Africa.

I have for many years been trying to make sense of education’s purpose and wondering why there is such a great discrepancy between what scholars of education have been telling us and what happens in the classroom.

ALSO READ: Education might not save you from cognitive decline

Education philosopher gives what the big thinkers have had to say

The aforementioned authors believe that education should help to shape well-adjusted individuals who can contribute to the common good – as opposed to merely lending a hand to what is already there.

Merely lending a hand is expressive of a limited understanding of the norms guiding professional work, and hence distorts autonomy.

Dewey thought that education should promote “intelligent growth”, the sort that defines an autonomous agent. In Dewey’s own words:

ALSO READ: Free State Dept of Education welcomes new MEC

Impulses and desires that are not ordered by intelligence are under the control of accidental circumstances. It may be a loss rather than a gain to escape from the control of another person only to find one’s conduct dictated by immediate whim and caprice; that is, at the mercy of impulses into whose formation intelligent judgement has not entered.

A person whose conduct is controlled in this way has at most only the illusion of freedom. Actually, he is directed by forces over which he has no command.

An educated person can adapt to life’s challenges by critically and sensitively engaging with what is given. The alternative is what Dewey describes as someone “whose conduct is controlled … by forces over which he has no command” and hence lacks freedom.

ALSO READ: Digital literacy: The key to transforming education in South Africa

This is a subject that is unable to develop a proper understanding of the forces that undermine freedom.

Sadly, it is this sort of existence that very many contemporary universities promote. Universities aim to produce efficient professionals rather than autonomous agents who are able to adapt to life’s challenges and understand the forces that impinge on their formation.

The reality

Universities follow on from primary and secondary education by training students to be uncritical servants of the status quo, to apply their intelligence in specific spheres of life and not to ask too many questions beyond the narrow scope of their engagements.

It is this approach that the American philosopher and linguist Noam Chomsky describe in an interview when speaking about the contrast between indoctrination and genuine education.

This sort of narrowly circumscribed thinking lacks the expansiveness of the critical mind – a mind able to stand back, consider and influence autonomous action.

ALSO READ: George Magoha was a force for better education in Kenya

Intellectual subordination

In an interview which forms part of the 2012 documentary The Lottery of Birth, Jeff Schmidt, a physicist and the author of Disciplined Minds: A Critical Look at Salaried Professionals and the Soul-battering System That Shapes Their Lives, says:

Professionals are deliberately produced to be intellectually and politically subordinate.

He illustrates this idea with the anecdote of two young nuclear weapons designers working in a nuclear weapons design laboratory. When asked by a journalist what the worst part of their job was, they rejoined that it was dealing with unstable computers lacking sufficient capacity.

They were not, it seems, able to consider the higher purposes they were blindly serving. The scope of their concerns was subordinated to the aims of others in power – their employers.

Education as Freedom

There are ways in which this approach to education can be challenged. For instance, at the Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics, we’ve developed a programme called IiNtetho zoBomi (isiXhosa for “conversations about life”).

It aims to complement the current university offering to foster the educational ideals propounded by the scholars I’ve discussed here. Service-learning activities are a core part of the programme. Students are encouraged to take the course only if they are interested in “understanding how your life – including your inner life – is formed by the world you inhabit”.

Is it working? I hope so. But the growth we aim to foster is hard to measure.

What I can confidently say, however, is that the effect of such programmes at any university would be far greater if there was more institutional buy-in than there currently is.

The idea that education is the practice of freedom cannot be separated from the idea that education should aim to equip students to critically and creatively engage with reality to transform it for the better.

Article by Pedro Tabensky: Director, Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics, Rhodes University.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Common licence. Read the original article.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY THE CONVERSATION

ALSO READ: URC overview: Munster join challenge to derail SA playoff ambitions

Sporting Insights in partnership with the Women’s Sport Collective conducted research that revealed that 92% of women faced barriers to entering the sports industry.

Eight in ten women would like to access a mentoring programme with women from the industry to aid them in their chosen path.

ALSO READ: Is a Lions player revolt on the cards over Cash?

This opportunity to be a part of the first Women’s Leadership Academy is open to applicants from across the globe provided that they identify as a woman and are between the ages of 18-26. 25 candidates will be selected as part of the academy which falls under the #empowHER campaign identity.

The first cohort will undertake a series of high-performance workshops which, according to SA Rugby will include:

“female leaders and stars in sport sharing their experiences and journey, a critical look at the state of the sports sector and the employment landscape, the digital future of sport, leadership skills and principles, preparing for interviews and growing a personal brand, sports sponsorship, and event management and operations.”

There is no cost for entry, participation, or graduation from the Women’s Leadership Academy.

ALSO READ: URC highlights: Stormers and Sharks’ derby delight strengthens playoff credentials

Applications are open from 22 February – 9 March. The outcome of applications will be announced on 16 March.

The programme will run from late March until late May.

Both teams next face the West Indies in their Women’s T20 World Cup pool games. Ireland remains in Cape Town and faces them on Friday, 17 February at 19:00. Pakistan travels to Paarl for the game on Sunday, 19 February at 15:00.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY ZAREENA GAIBEE

Understand the reason

When asked why they started their firm, some people’s immediate response is “to make money.” Of course, you want to generate money, but starting the business wasn’t truly your motivation. You noticed a hole someplace and decided it was time to fill it.

ALSO READ: Social entrepreneurship: creating sustainable livelihoods

You’re why is crucial because it will influence how you organise your company, the sorts of relationships you seek, and how you respond to customer requirements. Your why will also keep you motivated when you are going through highs and lows.

The majority of businesspeople are problem-solvers, thus until they can offer a solution, they’ll probably remain working on it, at least if other conditions permit.

ALSO READ: Top 5 Most Disruptive Entrepreneurs You Should Be Learning From

An entrepreneur should get to the point

You can’t possibly please everyone, so the saying goes. When starting a business, you should learn to live by this saying. You just cannot fulfill everyone’s needs. You must choose carefully what you can do and exclude what you cannot.

This involves concentrating just on one issue until you have a solution. Then and only then will you diversify and grow your company.

It can be challenging at times to focus on just one item, but you must fight the want to hop onto other things in an effort to take advantage of every opportunity.

ALSO READ: ‘R580k from selling kotas’: Entrepreneur sets tongues wagging

Even though they could be rewarding and alluring in the short run, they are a diversion from your long-term goals. By focusing on one item, you may create your reputation in your field, develop essential knowledge, and reduce unneeded rivalry.

Look for those who share your views

You have little hope of realising your vision unless your business partners do as well. To make anything work, you must all be in agreement.

If you find that your goals have changed, stop and reconsider if you should invest in the project. Go out there and find people who will support it if it’s something you genuinely want to do.

An entrepreneur should be willing to put in the effort

People frequently go headfirst into new endeavours, but as time passes, the patience required to execute simple things correctly and maintain the momentum rapidly wanes.

You can find it challenging to keep on track and decide to forgo a carefully thought-out plan in favour of a fresh, exciting trend. Create routines, schedules, and minor goals that, over time, add up to bigger results to counteract this.

Rejection Is Almost Certain

Even the greatest among us occasionally hear a hard negative to a proposal we initially thought was fantastic.

As an entrepreneur, when you approach possible partners and other possibilities, that will occur to you frequently. It will seem like a waste of time and effort when you look back on it, but there is actually a lot to learn from it.

As soon as you’ve recovered from your disappointment, consider the rejection. Find different people to talk to because you might not be unbiased enough in your evaluation. After that, resolve the concerns brought up before continuing.

ALSO READ: CHIETA creating future entrepreneurs

Sometimes the rejection might not be your fault. It’s possible that your timing was off or that the company you approached is going through a difficult time. Don’t let any rejection, in general, dim your light. It can serve as the wake-up call or reorientation you require to advance your company.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY MORE MABANDI

And with the country’s record-high unemployment rate of 34,5%, this is more important than ever.

The entertainment platform is a landmark on the digital landscape for aspiring youth who wish to turn their creative skills and talents into viable career opportunities. For some, this means embarking on brand new career paths that didn’t exist just a decade ago. For others, TikTok has become a powerful tool for redefining the world of work, and a chance to expand their network by connecting with a broader, global audience. 

TikTok has also become a stepping stone to specified industries and an open opportunity for youth to enter into collaborations that have the potential to transform their passions into lucrative professions.

TIKTOK CREATORS WHO HAVE REALISED THEIR DREAMS

From choreographers and cooks to medical professionals and hairdressers, here are a few of the TikTok users who are doing remarkable work in this space.

Chad Jones

Chad started by creating Amapiano dance videos to joining local dance TV show, Dance Yodumo. Due to his immense popularity on TikTok, Chad has taken up content creation full time.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chad Jones (@chad_13jones)

Khanyisa Jaceni

Khanyisa established her name in the music industry following collaborations with some of the biggest stars in the SA music industry. The artist, and now MC, shared her musical talents and journey on TikTok during the pandemic and has continued to use the platform to showcase her abilities.

In 2021, Khanyisa, along with a few other local creators released an official TikTok song called Sisonke.

Mpho_Pink

Beauty content creator Mpho has been using TikTok to market her braids business. She has also used the platform to share various hair tutorials with her fan base.

Kayla Kim

Kayla is a fashion-forward content creator and business owner for the ‘My Hunays’ brand. She uses TikTok to collaborate with other creators and market her business.

Noel Deyzel

Bodybuilder and fitness content creator, Noel, has taken TikTok to educate his fan base on fitness, health and diet. He has uses it build brand alignment and relationships with global clients and brands.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NOEL DEYZEL (@noeldeyzel_bodybuilder)

ALSO READ: TikTok billionaire retires, plans to daydream and read books

The actor and his ex-wife have continued to make headlines after they face-off in a courtroom during a defamation lawsuit which lasted six weeks.

JOHNNY DEPP BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Johnny Depp was not present in the courtroom on Wednesday 1 June when the jury delivered their final verdict. Instead, the actor and musician was touring the UK in concert alongside pal and guitarist Jeff Beck.

According to Radar, Johnny Depp spent his birthday with “ith family and friends during a break in the tour”.

In a clip posted online, fans are heard singing happy birthday to Johnny Depp as he signs autographs following a York concert with Jeff Beck. 

Fans of Johnny Depp also took to social media to share their birthday greetings.

Johnny Depp’s birthday appearance comes days after he was pictured looking worse for wear outside a Birmingham hotel in the UK. But according to sources, the actor was perfectly fine.

According to Page Six, his security guards were helping him navigate crowds of adoring fans. “Everywhere he goes, he’s getting mobbed by fans,” a source told the publication.

MAKING A MUSIC AND FILM COMEBACK

Meanwhile, Johnny Depp has bounced back following fears that his career had taken a blow following the six-week trial and six-year battle with Amber Heard.

The couple married in 2015 but split just a year later amid Amber’s claims that she had been physically, mentally, and sexually abused by the star.

During the trial, Johnny testified that his public persona had suffered following the damning allegations.

He said on the stand in the Fairfax, Virginia court in April: “It’s been six years of trying times. It’s very strange when one day you’re Cinderella, so to speak, and then in 0.6 seconds you’re Quasimodo”.

Since the final verdict was delivered, Johnny Depp has announced several projects up his sleeve.

They include:

• A joint album with guitarist Jeff Beck
• Starring in docuseries Boston George about drug dealer George Jacob Jung, whom he portrayed in the 2001 film Blow
• Making a big-screen comeback by playing French King Louis XV in an upcoming biopic

Jobs with the highest salaries in SA

While many of these jobs are fairly difficult and require people to be at a certain level of intelligence, they sure do pay off once all the hard work and studying are done.

Specialist medical doctors – Doctors who specialise in a certain medical field can earn from R700 000 to R2 million per annum.

Actuaries – In South Africa, actuaries earn from R597 000 to R1 million and are responsible for calculating and managing risk and uncertainty in businesses

Architects – Skilled architects earn from R715 000 to R1.2 million a year depending on the projects they work on and their level of experience.

Chartered accountants – These accountants earn between R489 000 to over R700 000 a year.

Lawyers – Lawyers can earn from R41 000 to R1.2 million per year.

Pilots – Pilots earn from R690 000 to R950 000 per year.

Software engineers – These tech geniuses earn up to R1.2 million.

Sales managers can make anything from R155 000 to R727 000 per year while management consultants can make up to R869 000 per year according to Political Analysis.

Which skill-sets are in high demand?

Meanwhile, BusinessTech reports that the following jobs are the most in-demand at the moment in South Africa.

Marketing

• Product management
• Events and coordination planning

Sales

• Real estate / property agent
• Commodities / financial service agent
• Account management

Finance

• Internal auditing
• External auditing
• Payroll and wages

ALSO READ: Big tippers leave Mzansi looking for jobs in flashy nightclubs

The scholarship will cover tuition, accommodation, study materials and living expenses for students who have been admitted to a film and television university programme in 2022. 

NETFLIX CREATIVE EQUITY SCHOLARSHIP FUND 

Netflix‘s CESF is targeted for rollout across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region starting with an open call for applications for the 2022 academic year.

In a statement, Netflix’s director of content in Africa, Ben Amadasun says the streaming giant is excited by the potential of the next generation of storytellers. 

“We believe there are great stories to be told from Africa and we want to play our part by supporting students who are passionate about the film and television industry so they too, can ultimately contribute to the creative ecosystem by bringing more unique voices and diverse perspectives to African storytelling that our global audiences find appealing.”

ALSO READ: Local animation ‘Seal Team’ secures spot on Netflix’s most-watched list

HOW TO APPLY 

Students interested in applying for the CESF scholarship for the 2022 academic year will be able to find more information about application criteria etc on the Tshikululu Social Investment website. 

Only students who wish to further their film and television studies in South Africa and are able to obtain the necessary documentation are eligible for the scholarship. 

The Netflix CESF scholarship will soon benefit students from other parts of Africa, specifically East, West and Central Africa. Administration partners for other African regions will be announced soon. 

Applications close on 4 February 2022 at 23:59.

ALSO READ: ‘Jeen-Yuhs’: Kanye West’s documentary to premiere on Netflix in February

SELECTION CRITERIA

Students studying in their final year or in a one-year postgraduate qualification relating to film and television studies qualify for the scholarship. The minimum aggregate to qualify for the scholarship is 60%.

HERE ARE ALL THE QUALIFYING INSTITUTIONS

• AACA Film and Acting Schol
• AFDA
• Boston Media House
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• City Varisty
• Durban University of Technology (DUT)
• Tshwane University of Technology (TU)
• University of Cape Town (UCT)
• University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
• University of Pretoria (UP)
• University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

From cleaner to graduate: The 60-year-old breaking barriers

Elizabeth Ely is no ordinary woman. She recently inspired many people in South Africa and abroad when she took to her Facebook page to share how she went from being a domestic worker to a graduate.

The heartwarming post features two photos of her. The first in her workwear and the second in a cap gown with her certificate at hand. She also explains that is now the proud owner of a Business Management degree.

“From a domestic worker to a Business Management graduate.#Virtual Graduation Ceremony 2021,” she captioned the post.

A quick scroll through her Facebook page also reveals that she is very religious and relies a lot on the word of God as her motivation when it comes to everything she has managed to achieve this far.

ALSO READ: South African law graduate makes her mark on local hair industry

Many people are super inspired by the domestic worker

Not a lot comes close to watching someone reach goals that often seem unobtainable. This must be why Elizabeth’s post amassed nearly 300 likes and over 190 comments from Facebookers who showered her with well wishes and congratulatory messages:

Moira Ellie Jimba said:

“Yasssss ???????????????????????? congratulations. So proud of you!”

Nazeema Samuels said:

“Amandla ????????????. Proud much Elizabeth Ely. May God continue to pave your way with success. Stay blessed and focused dear ????????????”

Alistair William Allies said:

“Congratulations. May Christ pave all roads ahead with gold and good fortune❤️❤️????????????”

While Vivienne Masembate wrote:

“Congratulations servant of God. May God bless you even more!”

ALSO READ: Minister Gwede Mantashe graduates with an MBA: ‘It takes courage’

Here are three reputable websites that offer free online courses. 

1. HARVARD UNIVERSITY

The Ivy League university based in Cambridge, Massachusetts offers various specialised online courses ranging in the fields of:

• Art and Design
• Business
• Computer Science
• Data Science 
• Education and Teaching 
• Health and Medicine
• Mathematics
• Programming 
• Science
• Social Sciences 

You can browse the list of free online courses here.

2.THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN X  FUTURELEARN

The University of Cape Town (UCT) in the Western Cape has partnered with British online education provider FutureLearn to offer over 400 online courses for free.

The courses range from Literature to Science, Engineering and Mathematics and require only a few hours a week to complete the weekly tasks set for you. You can, however, complete at your own pace.

You can access the courses here.

3. GOOGLE DIGITAL SKILLS FOR AFRICA

Google Digital Skills For Africa has a whole host of free online courses to help improve your digital skills focusing on digital marketing, data and technology and career development. The initiative aims to improve employment levels in Africa by sharpening the skills of those entering the workplace. 

The course caters to both beginners and advanced individuals and ranges from two hours to more than 20 hours. The platform can also provide you with a free certificate. 

The training courses that are offered on the platform encourage you to:

• Discover tools to make your business succeed
• Improve your interview skills
• Prepare for the career you want

You can access the free online courses here.

BeyGood is award-winning singer Beyoncé’s charity programme, created during the Mrs Carter World Tour in 2013.

Since 2018, Global Citizen has welcomed 10 fellows each year from South Africa to be part of the programme which sees them receive hands-on training, skills development, and work experience.

For this year’s fellowship programme, Global Citizen will be accepting 10 fellows from South Africa and five from Nigeria to be part of the year-long experience. Applications close on 4 June 2021.

Global Citizen Fellowship Program

Each will be provided with the skills and resources needed to help them secure work beyond their time with Global Citizen. The curriculum is designed to equip fellows with the skills and tools they need to thrive — not only during their time with Global Citizen, but also in any future endeavours.

The fellows are trained on using digital technology for social change, creating impactful storytelling that shifts attitudes, the importance of building lasting professional relationships, and the role of innovation in a constantly changing world.

Who is eligible?

If you’re based in South Africa or Nigeria and you’re between the ages of 21 and 25 with a matric or secondary school certificate, you can apply to be part of the fellowship.

Applicants must be able to house themselves in Johannesburg or Lagos for the duration of the programme.

What do you have to do?

Send a two to three-minute video explaining what makes you a Global Citizen, what role you believe young people play in ending extreme poverty, and what social issues you are taking action on. If you prefer writing, you can send a 500- to 700-word essay answering the same questions.

E-mail your application to gro.neziticlabolg@pihswollef and include a copy of your ID or passport. Applicants from minorities and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application date: 1 April – 4 June 2021.
The programme will run from 5 July 2021 to 20 June 2022.
For more information, please visit the Global Citizen application page.

What may surprise you, though, is that more and more businesses are casting their nets further than just the traditional criminal and financial checks.

Managed Integrity Evaluation’s (MIE) latest annual Background Screening index gives an interesting look at what companies are looking at to decide on potential candidates suitability.

It’s not surprising that criminal checks are still the most commonly requested checks by employers. 

The last twelve months have been particularly challenging for employers with the effect of COVID-19 having a massive impact on the job market.

As a result of this it’s expected that in the coming year, and probably for years to come, there will be a huge increase in job seekers who have been affected by corporate downsizing and retrenchment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the related lockdowns.

Desperation among job seekers is likely to only increase as the economy battles to come to terms with the new South African economic landscape.

It’s important to remember that South Africa’s economic recovery will lag behind developed and developed countries that have more aggressive vaccination programs.

It’s increasingly hard to see a future for South African job seekers in which there’s any respite from the increasing unemployment numbers.

As a result, companies are likely going to have to become increasingly discerning in how they vet potential new hires.

The MIE is already seeing changes in the types of information being requested about applicants. Social media information requests are one area where companies are becoming a lot more careful.

If you’re in the market for a job in the future you’ll need to spend as much time on cleaning up your social media as you do crafting the perfect C.V.

According to the MIE annual report, there was a 700% increase in requests for information about potential applicants social media presences.

This is unsurprising as the news has been full of high profile cases where individuals have made statements that have had severe reputational consequences for their employers.

In addition to reputational concerns, we can probably expect that employers could start using social media information to inform them about potential personality or ideological differences that could impact their company culture.

According to the report the majority of negative comment found came from the big two social media sites Facebook and Twitter.

The two sites accounted for nearly 90% of the negative content found during checks. The rest of the negative information came from web searches.

If you plan to immediately go and purge your social media of anything problematic things to look out for are:
Discriminatory content such as racism, sexism and homophobia.

Unprofessional content encompasses unprofessional and or sexual images along with aggressive or reckless speech which could have legal implications.

Drug use, this’s self-explanatory and job seekers should be very careful about what they post online about how they spend their Saturday nights.

The most surprising inclusion though was that candidates were flagged for spreading or posting misleading COVID-19 misinformation which will hopefully be a wake-up call to anyone who’s crawled down one of the many COVID-19 misinformation rabbit holes.

These jobs are in high demand right now

According to Stats SA, the unemployment rate stood at 32,5% in the October-December quarter, up from 30,8% in the previous three months, which is the highest it’s been since 2008. But things are looking up. The executive summary for February 2021 states that labour demand seems to stabilise slowly for professionals within the architecture and engineering, marketing, finance and sales sectors after battling a hard year due to the world’s ongoing health pandemic.

It is also said that during February 2021, the index increased to 107 index points indicating decreased competition in the job search market. Trending jobs provide an indication of positions that have become more popular in the online job market and have seen a recent spike in demand.

Here are February 2021’s Hot Jobs

The index, which represents online labour dynamics in South Africa by providing a detailed analysis of the relative ratio of supply and demand in the online job market, found that offers as a team leader and supervisor, senior management and business development are among the most sought after when looking for employees.

Meanwhile, the latest research shows that the following occupational fields are currently the most sought-after skill sets in the job market:

• Software Development: Demand for software development skills increased by 22% from January to February 2021. Professionals within software development remain highly demanded in the local job market.

• Middle / Department Management: Managerial skills in combination with managerial expertise are highly sought after. Particularly middle and department managers are on the forefront of labour demand.

• Representative / Sales Consulting: Hiring activity for sales consultants has been slowly increasing since December 2020. Despite a volatile demand trend, job advertising for sales consultants has increased by 19% over the last six months.

Promising employment prospects

What’s more, significant online demand indicates positive employment trends. Based on the most recent online hiring activity, five sectors were identified
that show promising employment prospects:

• Information Technology
• Architecture and Engineering
• Manufacturing and Assembly
• Sales
• Business and Management

The following sectors are in high demand

• Marketing
• Medical and Health
• Architecture and Engineering
• Manufacturing and Assembly
• Admin, Office and Support
• Sales
• Finance
• Business & Management
• Information Technology

The UP’s new master’s programme is the first cross-disciplinary degree in South Africa that addresses insolvency and related issues in this country.

ABOUT THE MASTER’S COURSE

The university’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS), with UP’s Faculty of Law, launched the new degree in insolvency and business rescue. This master’s course aimed at professionals who want to further their studies while still working at their respective organisations. 

“The insolvency industry is changing rapidly around the world, with greater emphasis being placed on recovery as opposed to traditional winding down,” Dr Wesley Rosslyn-Smith of UP’s business management department said.

“The turnaround process is highly complex, pulling competencies from law, finance and business. As more professionals aim to build careers in business rescue, we saw the opportunity to offer a cross-disciplinary degree to a field that has traditionally been studied from only a legal perspective.”

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS MASTER’S COURSE 

Applicants for this master’s course will need an honours degree in an academic discipline related to financial management or business management OR a four-year law degree OR any other relevant qualification.

However, if  the duration of that qualification is less than four years, substantial proven practical or professional experience in insolvency and/ or business rescue is required.

Alternatively, a 65% or more in any other NQF level 8 relevant qualification is acceptable.

UNIQUE COURSE DRAWS ON BUSINESS AND LAW

The department of business management at UP has been involved with research in turnaround management for more than 30 years.

“Studying insolvency law with business rescue together will enable students to gain a detailed understanding of the legal, financial, economic and governance issues underpinning debt finance and recovery,” Rosslyn-Smith said.

“Students will also gain advanced knowledge of theoretical and practical issues guiding formal and informal debt restructuring procedures.

“This unique master’s programme combines modules from business and law, making it the first cross-disciplinary local degree of its kind and one of the few programmes addressing insolvency-related issues in South Africa.”

POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS FOR THIS DEGREE

Successful candidates who complete the master’s course will be able to pursue any of the following careers:

• Insolvency practitioner;
• Liquidator;
• Business Rescue Practitioner; and
• Turnaround Management Consultant.

ALSO READ: Tuks is top university in SA and Africa, says global ranking

The University of the Free State (UFS) is hosting a webinar titled “Reimagining universities for student success”. It will be held on Thursday 4 March and several international panellists will take part.

The webinar will run from 14:00 to 16:00, and will the first such event in the university’s Thought-Leader Webinar Series for 2021.

Finding ways to achieve student success

A university degree is still viewed as one of the most powerful tools to change the economic prospects of students, their families and communities.

“In this sense, universities can be the generators of greater equality, social justice, as well as economic prosperity. Improving all students’ chances of success is a notoriously difficult goal that requires collective action,” UFS said in a statement.

Thursday’s webinar forms part of the establishment of the Student Success Collaborative Forum (SSCF) under the auspices of Universities South Africa (USAf).

The forum aims to bring together different government, business, civil-society, bursary-provider and student-success initiatives, as well as universities, to look at ways to enable student success.

International panellists to share knowledge

Several universities have hosted webinars in recent months in a bid to share knowledge and solutions in the age of COVID. Nelson Mandela University in Port Elizabeth held one on youth entrepreneurship and another on story-telling and mother-tongue language at the end of February.

Prof Heather Nel, senior director of institutional planning at Nelson Mandela University, will facilitate the UFS webinar, and the university’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Francis Petersen will do the introduction.

The five panellists will share innovative approaches on how to improve student success in both the United States and South Africa. They are:

• Prof Ahmed Bawa, chief executive officer of USAf;
• Dr Tim Renick, executive director of the National Institute for Student Success at Georgia State University in the US;
• Bill Moses, managing director for education at the Kresge Foundation;
• Prof Nthabiseng Ogude, dean of the Univesity of Pretoria’s Mamelodi Campus; and
• Prof Francois Strydom, the UFS’s senior director for the Centre for Teaching and Learning.

More information about the webinar and the panellists can be found here. Contact Alicia Pienaar at pienaaran1@ufs.ac.za if you would like to join the event.

The webinar will feature Dr Bernice Hlagala, chief director focusing on youth in the Department of Women, Youth and People with Disabilities (DWYPD), and the university’s Department of Economics lecturer Asanda Fotoyi.

Webinar about self-employment for youth

Fotoyi said the impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic highlighted how vital it was to explore forms of self-employment for young people.

“The webinar is important because South Africa has had 10 years of National Youth Policy which  forms the basis of the work done at local, provincial and national spheres of government in support of youth entrepreneurship development. 

“In 2020 during a very difficult time with Covid-19, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities drafted the latest National Youth Policy that will take us through to 2030 so it will be great to hear the views of Dr Hlagala,” she said.

“However, we cannot move forward without reflecting on the entrepreneurship outcomes for South African Youth, 2010-2020. My presentation forms part of the bigger research I am doing on youth entrepreneurship.”

Worrying unemployment among the youth

Department of Economics lecturer Sharon Tessendorf will facilitate the webinar. 

Tessendorf noted that Stats SA released a mid-year population estimate in 2020 that showed nearly two-thirds (63%) of the country’s citizens were younger than 35.

“Concerningly, the official unemployment rate among people aged 15 to 34 in the third quarter of 2020 was over 43%,” Tessendorf said.  

One solution to this extremely high unemployment rate was to encourage entrepreneurial activity.  

“Unfortunately, when compared to other middle-income developing countries, the research suggests that the level of entrepreneurial activity among the youth in South Africa is low,” she said.

Webinar to look at enhancing entrepreneurship

Tessendorf said the webinar would shed important light on factors affecting the entrepreneurship outcomes of South African youth and “what can be done to enhance entrepreneurship in this vulnerable group”.

Fotoyi, a doctoral candidate, previously worked as an economist at Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) and as assistant economist at Statistics South Africa. She has experience in economic research, data production and analysis, lecturing and academic co-ordination.

Responsible for formulating the youth policy at the department, Hlagala has more than 20 years of experience in the public sector, having worked in social, youth and community development affairs at regional, national and international level. She won the Pan-Commonwealth Youth Work Award in 2014.

How to tune in

The webinar is from 14:00 to 15:30 on Wednesday on MS Teams. To join, contact asanda.fotoyi@mandela.ac.za or join webinar on Microsoft Teams.

This was highlighted during a recent case heard at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) – Botha v TVR Distribution – that Covid-19 regulations do not brook a refusal to obey a lawful and reasonable instruction.

In the case, Botha, a sales executive, was dismissed for gross insubordination and insolence after refusing to attend work during the Covid-19 lockdown in April last year

The CCMA commissioner found that the dismissal was “substantively fair, but procedurally unfair.”

Laundry list of excuses

At the height of the level 5 lockdown, Botha was informed that the company had applied for a certificate from the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) to allow it to operate as an essential service during the lockdown and that he was required to work and present himself at the office to do so.

“Mr. Botha refused and provided a laundry list of excuses as to why he could not attend work, these being, among other things, that he hadn’t been provided personal protective equipment, that he had not been given a permit, and that the level 5 lockdown regulations did not permit him to work and he would not break the law.”

The CCMA found the ‘excuses’ to be false, said Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr.

The commissioner pronounced that the company had taken the necessary safety precautions; had adequate personal protective equipment; and that the CIPC certificate granted Botha the authorization to travel.

Ultimately, the commissioner said, Botha simply had no intention to attend work.

Labour Relations Act

In reaching a finding, the commissioner considered the evidence in reference with sections of the Labour Relations Act in that:

• Employees are obliged to respect and obey their employers because lack of respect renders the employment relationship intolerable and disobedience undermines the employer’s authority.

• Item 3(4) of Schedule 8 Code of Good Practice: Dismissal states that “generally, it is not appropriate to dismiss an employee for a first offence, except if the misconduct is serious and of such gravity that it makes a continued employment relationship intolerable.”

• Item 3(5) of Schedule 8 states that “when deciding whether or not to impose the penalty of dismissal, the employer should in addition to the gravity of the misconduct, consider factors such as the employee’s circumstances (including length of service, previous disciplinary record, and personal circumstances), the nature of the job and the circumstances of the infringement itself”. (Botha reportedly had a history of insubordination and insolence which contributed to the decision of dismissal.)

Non-compliant

The commissioner found that Botha had failed to obey a lawful and reasonable instruction, was insolent and insubordinate in doing so, and that his dismissal was therefore substantively fair.

However, the commissioner further held that because the presiding chairperson and Botha had had previous “run-ins,” the presiding officer could therefore have formed and held a negative opinion of Botha prior to the hearing. In addition, Botha was not given an opportunity to provide mitigating factors for his conduct.

In light of these findings, the commissioner ruled that the dismissal was not procedurally fair.

Accordingly, the employer was ordered to pay one month’s salary as compensation to Botha.

Takeaways for both employee and employer

The takeaway from this case, the law firm noted, is that employees should not take for granted that Covid-19-induced lockdown rules affords a person the automatic right to choose which instructions to obey and ignore.

“Should an employer issue a lawful and reasonable instruction, even in the midst of a pandemic, the employee is obliged to adhere to it and could face dismissal for failure to comply.”

“Employers should, however, still be weary, ensuring that they follow a fair procedure in a disciplinary hearing as a procedural irregularity could result in the employer being ordered to pay compensation, even in instances where dismissal is warranted,” as is the instance in this case.

Now the proud owner of his own panel beating shop, Pholoholo walked through the doors of Kids Haven when he was 19, his life in disarray.

“I was a street child and was found by a woman named Aunt Sharlene, who then referred me to Kids Haven.”

“Kids Haven taught me a lot by showing me the way to find myself, from being a no one to being someone. I was a teenager with no experience about life, no idea where to go nor what I was supposed to become.”

The 38-year-old added that the shelter taught him self-respect and how to appreciate the smaller things in life.

“Kids Haven sheltered and fed a street child, got me a job at a panel beating company called Cranbourne Panel Beaters, which was my first job with no experience whatsoever,” he explained to the Benoni City Times.

“I stayed at Kids Haven for three years until they got me my first job.”

Flying solo

After gaining some experience, the Pholoholo decided, at aged 31, to start his own company.

“I am a small business owner trading in the motor industry of panel beating and spray painting,” he said. His business, Cadeans Panel Beating and Spray Painting, is based in the CBD.

“I did not study for it, I was trained at my previous employment on practical work. Although I would love to have studied for it, one is never too old to learn about business.”

“I get teachings every day to keep up with the changing times and just need to learn to apply it sometimes.” The businessman told the City Times it was his dream to become his own boss.

“I told myself one day I will have my own business, and this is where the lessons from Kids Haven played a major role: determination, dedication and perseverance,” he explained.

Applause for Kids Haven

“I appreciate Kids Haven for standing by me.”

He advised those who are currently in shelters to make the most of the guidance and advice offered.

“Don’t see them only as a place to eat and sleep, they might just be the organization that can help you become the next president of the country and only by your willingness to learn, respect others and appreciation.”

“My appreciation goes out to Kids Haven with the funding scheme I get every month when I train the youth referred to me by them,” he explained.

“For the last year they have been there with me through these difficult times and are still with me. I can’t thank them enough for the support they give me.”

Pholoholo explained having a dream is important but making that dream a reality comes with its own set of challenges, as he says “you need money to make money.”

He advice for budding entrepreneurs: “Never give up on yourself, believe you can be and make a difference.”

“But that’s exactly what the advertiser wants,” you murmur as you scroll past once again.

After all, a R399 certified short course seems too good to be true – or is it?

My ‘MOOC’ experience

A few years ago, when I applied for a job as a graphic designer the company asked for some sort of certification.

But I was completely self-taught at that time, learning on the job with a senior designer breathing down my neck at all times.

I was in a panic, and quickly jumped on the internet to find some kind if course I could do to prove I had the knowledge I claimed to have.

Advice when choosing a MOOC

Here is my advice for online learning: Read extensively about the academy or institution, including student reviews. In addition, check out social media and research internet fraud.

So, using my own experience as a guide, here are a few I have been happy with: Shaw Academy; the Academy of Film, Fashion and Design; Alison Academy, Coursera and EDX.

With some short courses starting at R13 000 each, I nearly gave up my search until a designer recommended the Shaw Academy.

While only the first few weeks are free, and you pay after this, the courses may not turn out that expensive.

My particular course cost R199,  and included an extensive textbook and online lectures every week. There also were assignments and class tests.

After I passed the course and payment of R199 had gone from the bank account, I had a diploma to wave in front of my new boss!

However, Shaw is not the only place for underfunded students and corporate climbers looking to extend their knowledge on a certain subject.

Other online study options

Here are a few others I have tried: 

• The Academy of Film Fashion and Design 

Out of boredom one day at work, I decided to go online and see where I could hone my animation skills. That’s when I came across an entire Adobe Suite course for R450.

What did I learn? Well, I now have studied all the Adobe products to date, from web design to video editing. This academy gave me a receipt of purchase and a password to the website that was valid for a year.

It is a self-paced course, but you have up to a year to complete it. In the end, I received seven certificates of completion, and gained valuable skills. 

• Alison Academy 

Alison offers a wide range of courses and I studied web design and psychology short courses at the same time. It offers courses on audit, which means that you are fully enrolled and it is free, but you will not receive a certificate.

You can, however, draw an academic history report which can serve as proof that you took the course.

These courses are also self-paced with no “end date”.

I completed three courses and they were all free. It also enabled me to dive into my outside interests at a deeper level.

The benefits? Alison Academy was no-strings-attached learning with no joining or course fees. 

University partnerships

• Coursera & EDX 

Here is where things get interesting. The top universities in the world have partnered to create “super MOOCs” and Coursera and EDX are two of the biggest and best known.

Their partners include institutions like South Africa’s University of the Witwatersrand, the UK’s Oxford University and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in the United States (US). These are just a few of many and this depth means Coursera and EDX are able to offer the best of the short courses.

From neuroscience to comic book culture (a course compiled by Stan Lee and his entourage) there is a lot to study.

They also offer audit courses, which means that the course is completely free, but you will not get a certificate of completion. However, you can enrol to receive certification and it generally costs less than R500.

Coursera and EDX have begun offering degree and masters online courses as well, which are a bit pricy and the admission standard is very high.

However, having certification from Harvard, the University Of Barcelona and MoMA will not hurt anyone’s career!

The future of MOOCs

Coursera boasts 37 million students and EDX 18 million students worldwide, and they offer 6 440 courses between them. They have been in the game for several years and are likely only to get bigger as the times change. 

Online learning is also an increasing authoritative source of education as the pandemic has led to more and more universities offering online courses.

Why do employers care about short course certificates? Well, a MOOC or two shows who you are and what you care about.

If you enrol for an online course, it shows drive, passion, a work ethic and self-motivation. Some of the courses may not be worth as much as a university degree or even a diploma, but it is certainly worth your time to check them out.

And that is especially true if you are strapped for cash or want to apply for a promotion at work!

• Read more about other online study opportunities here.

Too much time sitting at home without enough tasks can take a toll on our mental health, so why not give your brain a boost with one of many free courses available?

Degrees are needed for so many jobs in 2020, so to stand out you may need more than just a degree. The skills to go with your specific field, or branch, are also extremely important. As are other educational resources, such as short courses or qualifications — and 2020 is the perfect time to dive straight into online courses.

Five sites that offer free ‘virtual’ courses:

1. Coursera

Coursera works together with universities and other organisations around the world to offer online courses in various subjects.

The course material is free, but you pay if you want your work graded or if you want Coursera to courier a verified certificate.

You can use this site to learn a whole host of subjects and also help diversify yourself and your skills.

2. edX

edX is a non-profit organisation that has free courses in a range of different subjects. The costs related to edX are for a verified track or to enrol in a professional education course.

Otherwise, apart from the cost of your data, there are not many other costs related to edX. Similar to Coursera, edX can be used to learn different skills to diversify your work skills.  

3. Khan Academy

The Khan Academy is a trusted resource for academic content that is free for both students and teachers.

The academy offers practical exercises, videos and other forms of help to students.

 You can use its videos and other academic sources to teach yourself via self-study.

You also can use Khan Academy to help you understand concepts, related to your previous studies, better.

4. MIT OpenCourseWare

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) publishes all of the educational materials from its undergraduate and graduate-level courses online via MIT OpenCourseWare.

The collections and related materials are easily accessible and made for students and educators.

MIT created this initiative with the simple idea of publishing all course materials online, making them freely and openly available to anyone keen on learning.

5. Sundance

Sundance offers courses that help creators take their skills to the next level.

Sundance is for the creative and entertainment industry and is a collaboration with The Sundance Institute.

The free service allows people to participate in online classes, watch videos and recordings, access curated resources, join free online events and engage with the community.

But, what if you do not have any work experience? After completing your studies, finding a job without any work experience can be very challenging for new graduates.

Here are a few ways to build a strong CV — even if you don’t have work experience.

TALK ABOUT YOUR SKILLS

When writing a CV  you need to remember that the employer does not care about your wisdom or expertise. At this point, they simply want to know what you’re capable of doing.

Being honest about your skills, and providing examples of where you’ve demonstrated them, is the best way to get an employer interested.

For instance,  if you state leadership under your skills then provide a scenario where you had to use such skills.

SHOW YOUR POTENTIAL

An employer needs to know and be convinced that you are capable of taking on a task, or responsibility, that goes with the job.

State your efforts and how far you are willing to go when it comes to your job.

Include the challenges you’ve faced in your student life, how you overcame them and what you learnt from them.

PUT EFFORT IN YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT

When applying for a job, always ensure that your personal statement or summary is intriguing as it is one of the first things a recruiter reads on your CV.

Remember that this is not a story however but a brief description about why you’d be a great employee. Therefore, keep it short and concise.

HIGHLIGHT ACHIEVEMENTS IN YOUR CV

Bringing up achievements in different contexts can help reinforce the potential employer’s impression of your skills.

Identifying your achievements may make it easier for them to get a sense of what kind of a person you are.

For instance, your achievements could show that you’re proactive and alert on what is happening in their industry. Make it concrete and specific though.

MAKE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS RELEVANT

Relating your skills and qualifications in a meaningful way to the recruiter is often challenging.

It is not enough to have a qualification, you also need to tell the employer how you can help their company and what it would mean if they hired you.

Outline in specific ways how someone with your qualification could be an advantage to their business.

WRITE A COVERING LETTER WITH YOUR CV

A CV alone doesn’t have enough space for the applicant to go into detail about why they are the best person for the job.

For someone without work experience, a covering letter is extra-important. This is a chance to show the recruiter why they should hire you, particularly if you have no experience.

The letter has to be professional and to the point. Make sure there are no careless grammar or spelling errors.

DO UNPAID WORK

Your CV does not need to be lacking in work experience forever. If you do not have any paid experience, then volunteer for unpaid work. Ideally, look for a position as an intern in the field that you are hoping to work in.

Or, if you can’t find someone willing to take on an unpaid intern, then volunteer at a charity or NGO. This will show potential employers that you are committed to finding a job.