EMALAHLENI – The eMalahleni Local Municipality Youth Desk hosted a vibrant and inspiring Career Exhibition on Friday, May 23, 2025, at eMalahleni Resort, also known as Witbank Dam.
The event was a significant step towards youth empowerment, offering over 400 young learners access to career guidance, educational tools, and direct exposure to various professional industries.
Learners from 14 schools participated, including Pine Ridge Combined School, Elukhanyisweni, Ilanga, Philip Ndimande, TP Sililo, Bongintsimbi, Kopanang, Zacheus Malaza, Mabande, Mehlwana, Coronation Secondary Schools, Gekombineerde Skool Ogies, and Lehlaka Combined School.
The programme was ably led by Themba Nkosi, the eMalahleni municipality youth manager and directed by Simphiwe Mthimunye.
MMC for Community Services, Sizwe Buthelezi, delivered the official welcome, setting a positive tone. Youth Development Coordinator, Thobile Kabini, outlined the event’s purpose and encouraged learners to take charge of their future with determination.
Adding inspiration were young professionals Ursula Ntuli and Mthuthuzela Mahlangu, who shared their journeys and urged learners to stay focused on their goals.
Executive Mayor Vusi Nhlapho delivered the keynote address, highlighting the municipality’s commitment to youth development. “When we invest in our youth, we invest in eMalahleni’s future,” he said. “Through this Career Expo, we plant seeds of ambition, show young people real opportunities, and remind them that their dreams are valid and achievable.”
After formalities, learners explored exhibition stands during a walkabout session, collecting brochures, asking questions, and discovering various career paths.
The event was supported by institutions like Nkangala TVET College, University of Pretoria, Tshwane University of Technology, and UNISA. Government departments including Agriculture, Health, Labour, and the Fire Department were present, along with companies such as Eskom (Duvha Power Station), Glencore, Exxaro, Thungela Resources, Mzimkhulu Mine, Masemanzi, SAMANCOR Ferrometal, and organisations like GS Links, NCM Real Estate Boutique, Ursula Attorneys, Newbridge Graduate Institute, Mphephetse, Services SETA, and WRSETA.
This initiative offered both practical knowledge and renewed hope, paving the way for a brighter future in eMalahleni.
