The Gauteng Department of Social Development funded West Rand Youth Development Center (WRYD) in Kagiso is committed to eradicating poverty in the area.
According to a statement released by Sibusiso Chauke, communications officer for the Gauteng Department of Social Development, WRYD is accredited to provide youth development programs and was founded by Boyce Moatse, editor of the Weekly Bulletin.
During an interview with Boyce who is also the director of the center and Boitumelo Modisane, coordinator of the project, they explained how the NPO has made a difference in society.
“We set up this center following a lack of skills development for young people around Mogale town as there was no development center. We applied for funding from the Gauteng Department of Social Development a year after we started and our application was granted. we’ve never looked back since,” Boyce said.
Boitumelo alluded to the fact that the center offers life skills and computer training, technical training and entrepreneurship training.
“The center has partnered with various companies that help with training and placement. We have Jumpotart, a company that provides recipients with training and retail placement for Mr Price Stores in the area. There is also AA training specializing in forklift skills, electrical engineering, and apprenticeship. We have a partnership with the Department of Labor; they register our beneficiaries in their database for placements and internships,” she added.
Boyce further indicated that since their partnership with the Gauteng Department of Social Development, they have dramatically changed many lives around Mogale and surrounding areas.
“The center has placed more than 30 beneficiaries in permanent jobs. We are grateful to the Gauteng Department of Social Development for their support. We are still strong thanks to them. With their help, we continue to ensure that young people have access to economic opportunities,” he concluded.
