Programmes
Besides providing mentorship for our learners, we also run various activities that are facilitated by us and/or our partners and mentors.
Career Orientation
Career guidance is crucial to help our learners to choose their studies. More than 10 company visits are organised every year by our funders (Bombela Operating Company, Kasada Capital Management, Paymentology) and various companies (eg. Sanofi Pharmaceuticals, BBD Software Development, Transnet, MA Automotive, Standard Bank, Absa, Deloitte, Mintek, etc.)
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At the Career Fair, about 30 guest speakers share insights on a variety of studies and career paths, including professional trades. Some privates college are also invited.
​ Separate sessions on the Careers of the Future focus on highlighting the impact of technology and innovation on careers (robotics, renewable energy, bioinformatics, process engineering, cybersecurity, cyberlaw, drone piloting, AI, data science etc).
"We really appreciate the sessions because growing up we only hear of the traditional careers, but these sessions help us get exposed to different careers and get a variety of options to choose from," Jabulile Zondo, Grade 11.
“It really helped me to relax my mind after such a long day. I have learnt that as a person you must learn to believe in yourself and make yourself a priority. And this will help me going forward” - Mabatho Legwabe, grade 11
Personal Development & Emotional Support
​​We also focus on learners' well-being through Personal Development & Health sessions, covering mindfulness, bullying, emotional intelligence, self-care, mental health, LGBTQI+, GBV, family planning, menstruation & hygiene, body positivity, and more.
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In 2023, Kimberly Mkhushulwa (Sizanani Manager) introduced Expressive Art sessions, where qualified facilitators use drama, art, and creative outlets to help learners navigate challenges like stress, anxiety, depression, grief, forms of abuse, bullying, familial disparities, low self-esteem etc. As of 2025, we will include workshops with focus sessions on different topics per grade. If anyone is in the mental health space and has experience running interactive workshops, they are welcome to contact us.
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Trained Peer Coaches (alumni) provide one-on-one support to learners needing relatable guidance. They provide reports to identify those needing further intervention. If needed, Lydia Makhoba, a Sizanani-funded counsellor, conduct family visits and refers learners to local therapists and social workers. For more information on our peer coaches, click here.
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Music Therapy sessions, led by registered music therapist Danielle McKinnon, were introduced, offering learners group therapy through numerous forms of self-expression, including drumming, drawing, improvisation, clay sculpting, movement, relaxation, and more.
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On top of our programmes, Ikusasa Lethu's has introduced a Superpower Programme, run by 5th Place, to foster the emotional balance of grade 10 learners.
French Classes
Since 2023, a group of 9 learners has been learning French. The initiative was supported by the Lifsa Fund (Principality of Monaco). All of them have French-speaking mentors. An online “pen club” program has been also set up with learners living in Besancon (France). Click here to see a short clip of grade 9 learner, Kutlwano Phala speaking French!
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Sizanani has also created a sister NGO in France (Association de mentorat Sizanani) which aims to develop exchange programs with the French youth and encourage our alumni to further their studies in France.
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Special assistance has been provided to Chiderah Hills, a 2023 matriculant from Alexandra township, to allow her to regain her French citizenship and return to Paris, where she was born, and start her University studies near Paris, in September 2024.
“I believe learning French is a valuable asset in today’s global job market. It also gives me an opportunity to learn about a new culture. Merci”. Siwayaka Maphumulo (gr 9)
“The talent show gave me the chance to get outside of my comfort zone. I used to be scared and shy of people but after a talent show, it has boosted my confidence and self-esteem. Ashley Nyaoza, grade 11
Fun Activities
Every year, we host our Talent Show where learners can showcase their talent in drama, poetry, singing and dance to mentors, learners, and guests. The participants are coached by alumni and mentors. It is also a way for the learners to give thanks to the programme, funders and partners for their much appreciated support! Click below to see a clip of 2021 winner, Boitumelo Madisha's beautiful performance.
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Thanks to our partnership with Stade Joburg, learners, mentors and guests get to take part in our annual Soccer Tournament at the French School (Lycée Jules Verne de Johannesburg) ​​"We encourage you to continue your remarkable support of sports, inspiring others to reach their full potential”, Siyawakha Maphumulo, a grade 10 learner, reflected. The tournament and a after braai is funded by the french company Saint-Gobain.
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We also host our annual Fun Fair as part of our fundraising activities. Attendees include mentees, mentors and guests. It is a fun-filled day with a collective activity and various workshops. Cakes and delicacies are sponsored by Puratos Chipkins, with additional funding from Jobourg Accueil.
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Click here to watch a clip on the eTV Morning Show, which featured our 2022 Fun Fair.
Other Activities
Our learners benefit further from exciting partnerships and opportunities that foster knowledge, creativity, and real-world skills.
In partnership with Lessons in Conservation (LiC), learners explore the natural world through interactive lessons on conservation, followed by a game drive to experience nature firsthand. Learn more about LiC here, and see a clip of the 2023 game drive below.
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They also have a chance to compete in the Eskom Science Expo, creating innovative projects. They receive guidance from teachers and volunteers. If you would like to assist, please contact us.
Volunteers from BBD Software Development (BBD) teach learners about software development, problem-solving, and the power of technology. The top learner is awarded a coding laptop, inspiring them to pursue tech-related careers! Learn more about BBD's CSR projects here.
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"I am glad that I now know about the ecosystem and that Earth needs our help to keep it healthy and sustainable”. Constant Moyo, Grade 11.