Youth Month is the ideal time to remember the sacrifices that paved the way for a better tomorrow. With this sentiment, it’s important to recognise the young talent currently shaping our economy. The hospitality industry, long a beacon for opportunity and creativity, offers a fertile ground for South Africa’s youth to learn and flourish.
At Cape Town’s Radisson Red Waterfront, three young individuals, Alicia Blauw, Julius Petersen, and Sibulele Fon, stand out as examples of what passion, resilience, and support can achieve. Through their journey with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, they are building their careers and inspiring a generation of young starters eager to break into hospitality.
Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator is a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to connecting unemployed youth with work opportunities and skills development. By partnering with businesses and training institutions, Harambee creates opportunities for young people to enter the workforce, gain practical experience, and build sustainable careers.
“This programme gave me the training and support I needed to prepare for the hospitality industry,” says Blauw, a Food and Drinks Creative. She’s discovered her confidence and learned the importance of having her own back. “Before this, youth were often overlooked, many sitting at home without work or a future. But this programme gives hope.”
Alicia’s standout moment? Learning to make coffee like a professional barista. It was a simple skill, but one that opened a door to self-belief. Her advice to other young people points back to faith and action: “Never give up hope. There’s something meant for you. God gave everyone a purpose. Dream it, then put it into action.”
Petersen, also a Food and Drinks Creative, again highlights the professionalism and teamwork the Harambee programme instilled in him. “It showed me what’s expected in this industry and how to handle it.” His favourite part? Meeting people from all over the world and experiencing the diverse hospitality environment. He recalls a personal high point with a smile: “I got to meet a celebrity who really liked me.”
Youth Month, Julius reflects, is about honouring sacrifices made for a better future. “It reminds me not to quit on my dreams and never forget who I am and what I’m capable of.”
For Fon, a barista at the Radisson Red Waterfront, the programme led to opportunity and growth. “It educated me about hospitality and helped me get where I am now.” His first coffee behind the bar was a defining moment, proving what’s possible with guidance. He’s also grown socially: “My communication skills have improved. I’m more interactive than ever before.”
Youth Month is a celebration of young creativity and potential, says Fon. His encouragement to peers is uplifting: “Reach for the stars. Don’t limit yourself. You CAN achieve more than you ever expected.”
All three express gratitude for the supportive environment and Harambee’s role in creating real employment pathways. Their stories embody Youth Month’s spirit, remembering past struggles and actively building a future filled with possibility.
Why investing in youth is investing in South Africa’s economic future
Youth Month is a powerful reminder that South Africa’s strength lies in its young people. Investing in their skills, confidence, and opportunities creates ripple effects across communities and industries. The stories of Blauw, Petersen, and For are true to this. Young people with the right support can lead with creativity, resilience, and heart.