Harmony Gold Mponeng Mine in Merafong, Bambisandla-Sam Centre of Excellence and
Gauteng Department of Social Development join hands in creating employment opportunities for the
West Rand youth. Harmony Gold Mine has employed at least eleven hospitality students from Bambisandla-Sam Centre of Excellence, the Centre is empowered by the Gauteng Department of Social Development to transfer portable skills to West Rand youth from
unprivileged backgrounds.

When youth undertake these skills programme it is imperative that a clear exit strategy is deployed. Some of these learners undertook basic cooking skills programme which is a duration of 3 months with 30% theory and 70% practical. The exit strategy that was deployed was a 3-year course of Occupational Chef, Artisan Programme.

During experiential learning which takes place with the host employers like Radisson Red Rosebank, Radisson Blue OR Tambo, Mount Grace in Magaliesburg, Level Seven Restaurant OR Tambo, Premier Hotel OR Tambo, Protea Hotel-Sandton. The learners gain confidence and acquire industry skills that gives them competitive edge. It is this experience and discipline that attracted Harmony Gold Mine to employ these learners permanently. These learners get a good salary and mine benefits.

During networking session with Harmony Gold Miss Veronica Wanda applauded the Harmony Gold Mine management for their remarkable gesture in uplifting local communities Bambisandla-Sam Centre of Excellence is Excited about these employment opportunities for youth presented by the mine. Some of these were on substance abuse and through Gauteng Department of Social Development rehabilitation programme they made it through and now they are happily employed. This will assist the youth to get off the streets and focus on building a better
sustainable future for themselves.