Empower 100 Tanzanian Youth through Education

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to GlobalGiving and all donors for their generous support towards the "Empower 100 Tanzanian Youth through Education" project. Through your contributions, we have been able to reopen Jobortunity and embark on a journey of transformative education and skill development for Tanzanian youth in the year 2024.

Here are the updates about the project:
1. Welcoming Class 2024A: A New Chapter Begins

In January, Jobortunity welcomed the arrival of Class 2024A, consisting of 31 youngsters. Reporting on the 15th, these students started their journey with enthusiasm and determination. Their presence adds vibrancy to our community as we continue our mission of empowering Tanzanian youth through education and skill development. Trainers used motivational quotes and words of wisdom as a theme to welcome them into the Hi5 program.

2. New Leadership and Program Initiatives:

On January 9th, Jobortunity welcomed its new Managing Director, Mr. Ansbert De Valk, with great enthusiasm and anticipation. The entire team, along with our students, expressed immense excitement at the arrival of Mr. De Valk, recognizing the wealth of experience and leadership he brings to our organization. His appointment marks a new chapter for our team, filled with promise and potential for growth. The team and students alike eagerly await the opportunity to work under Mr. De Valk's guidance, confident that his leadership will lead us towards even greater success and impact.

3. Hi5 Lessons:

Hi5 lessons are designed to provide the young people with a holistic learning experience, integrating various skills such as communication, planning, teamwork, and work ethics. Different projects are undertaken by the students to demonstrate their application of these skills in real-world scenarios, preparing them for future challenges.

• Students Projects:
  The unique lesson on project development involves several other lessons during its 2-week period. Students make use of communication, planning, money planning, team work and work ethics to work on their projects. There were four projects undertaken by the class 2023B: cooking, entertainment, vegetable farming, gardening and decoration.

• Customer Service Class
  Our students get to learn about customer service. It was amazing to observe 2024A students from diverse interests, not necessarily affiliated with the hospitality sector, excel in their comprehension and articulation of customer service principles. This underscores the effectiveness of our customer service classes in providing students with essential skills applicable across various industries. This broader perspective not only enriches their professional competence but also equips them with needed tools crucial for success in today's dynamic job market

• Grooming through Fashion Show
  On January 30th, Jobortunity students held a Fashion Show for the 2024A cohort, showcasing the remarkable talents and creativity of our students. From innovative designs to beautiful runway presentations, the event was a testament to the dedication and hard work of our youngsters. This fashion show underscored the practical skills and industry insights gained through our courses. By participating in such events, students not only gain valuable hands-on experience but also build confidence in their abilities.

• High Five Sports and Traditional Dances
  In the latest Hi5 Sports and Traditional Games lesson, 2024A students delved into a dynamic range of activities, showcasing their talents and competence. From timeless sack races to delicate egg-and-spoon challenges, students eagerly engaged in various competitions. The atmosphere was filled with excitement during eating contests and the balloon game, fostering unity and enthusiasm. Through collaborative efforts and support, students refined skills while embodying teamwork and mutual encouragement. This session exemplified Jobortunity's commitment to interactive and enriching educational experiences, leaving a lasting impact on all participants.

4. Apprenticeship and Practical Training:

Class 2023B students began their technical skills training after four months of in-house training. All thirty-one students were assigned to seven partner companies. While some will be assigned to permanent departments, others will take advantage of departmental rotations to learn more about their line of work. It is expected of students to use their Hi5 skills in their day-to-day tasks and interactions with co-workers and customers.

5. Parental Engagement and Community Outreach:

Jobortunity values parental involvement in students' education and development. We enjoy inviting parents and guardians to Jobortunity so they can get a progress summary of the current class and learn more about what we do. Parents of class 2023B attended in the middle of October, and both staff and the students gave them a warm welcome. As usual, feedback, inquiries, recommendations were welcome and would help motivate the students to give their all while they were at Jobortunity. At the end, one-on-one meetings between each student and their parent or guardian were held in order to delve deeply into the individual details of each student and create action plans where necessary.

6. Team Expansion and Capacity Building: New Staff Addition:

Ms. Nusura Myonga's appointment as Marketing and Training Coordinator strengthens Jobortunity's team. With her expertise in marketing and training, she brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to enhance the organization's educational initiatives and outreach efforts.

7. Extension Programs:

• Inherit Your Rights Certification (IYR) - October 12th
  The students in class 2023B were given certificates to commemorate the end of the complementary training programme by Inherit Your Rights. Students gained knowledge of the numerous laws governing women's rights and land issues in general during the three month training period. The main objective of IYR is to combat gender inequality in communities by means of advocacy and education.
  
  
• Entrepreneurship
  During the entrepreneurship session, students enthusiastically engaged in learning essential skills such as marketing assessment and self-promotion. Through interactive exercises and discussions, they gained practical insights into effective marketing strategies and the significance of self-promotion in business. The session was a success, equipping students with foundational knowledge crucial for future entrepreneurial ventures.

8. Success Story

Kantona, a dedicated member of FiFi's Restaurant's Service Department, brings four years of experience, which began with Jobortunity's training and apprenticeship assistance. Born in Karatu, he transitioned from a challenging background to self-sustainability through Jobortunity's support. Kantona values the Hi5 approach, emphasizing creativity and resilience instilled by Jobortunity. He upholds these values in his daily work, embodying a commitment to future opportunities. Kantona's journey at FiFis reflects his strategic approach of taking small but smart steps toward career and life goals.

9. Other Activities

• Treasurer hunt lesson
  Class 2024A students were very active during this half’s treasure hunt lesson. Thanks to the hospitable environment presented by the manager, Mr. Victor, at Onsea House, they got the opportunity to visit different departments and learn how things operate, i.e., housekeeping, kitchen, restaurant, and reception departments.

• Women's day event at Future Stars Academy
  On the 9th of March, Future Stars Academy hosted a dynamic Women's Day event, providing our female students with a rich and engaging experience. The day was filled with lively activities, including various sports and insightful discussions on empowering the girl child and addressing gender-based violence. The students actively participated, demonstrating enthusiasm and energy throughout the event. Overall, it was a fulfilling occasion where our students not only had fun but also gained valuable knowledge and awareness, embodying our commitment to holistic education and empowerment.

• 2023A Graduation Day
  On March 22nd, the class of 2023A celebrated their graduation from Jobortunity's one-year professional skills program. The ceremony was attended by proud parents, distinguished visitors from partner companies, and esteemed guests, including Ms. Fiane Show, and Ms. Kim Groeneweg, the Managing Director. 33 graduates received a Hi5 diploma, with five students recognized for their outstanding effort, diligence, and positive attitude. This event highlighted Jobortunity's commitment to nurturing skilled professionals and fostering excellence in collaboration with its partners.

• Selection Exercise from the 20th to 24th November
  The customary 3-day Hi5 selection programme saw a total of 109 candidates in attendance for the upcoming class 2024A, which is set to begin on January 15, 2024. 17 distinct selection exercises were prepared and administered to gauge candidates that would fit the Hi5 criteria. A total of 35 candidates were eventually identified and informed promptly by trainers. We are very excited to receive the new lads in January and introduce them to the world of Hi5 training.
  
  Through the "Empower 100 Tanzanian Youth through Education" project, Jobortunity continues to make a significant impact in transforming the lives of Tanzanian youth. We express our profound gratitude to GlobalGiving and all donors for their invaluable support, which has enabled us to provide meaningful opportunities for empowerment and growth. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Tanzanian youth through education and skill development.