This year’s internship programme is aligned to Absa’s ReadytoWork initiative. Launched in 2015, ReadytoWork is a pan African initiative aimed at helping young people build the skills they need to make the critical transition from education into the world of work.
It provides young people with access to a digital and face-to-face blended learning journey that helps develop their work, people, money and entrepreneurial skills, better equipping them to find a job or start their own business.
Absa has been a supporter of the DMA since 2004. Besides providing a safe platform for youngsters from disadvantaged communities to learn about the sport of cycling, the DMA also tries to foster strong educational support for its members.
The 2016 Absa Cape Epic on March 13 will, therefore, not only provide the 14 interns with valuable hands-on work experience during the race, but will also empower these youngsters with the requisite training and support to enhance their employment or self-employment prospects.
Last year, nine young DMA riders were afforded the opportunity to work at the Absa Cape Epic. Among them was Otty Makwatlo, who worked as a bike mechanic. He will be returning to the Absa Cape Epic as an intern this year.
“After my involvement in the Absa Cape Epic last year with the other DMA interns, many kids are now looking at us as examples of what they can achieve. I believe that being chosen and the experience that comes with that, will make me a better role model for them in the future.
“This is an opportunity that means a lot to me and I can’t wait to learn even more in 2016,” said Otty.
Source: African News Agency (ANA)
