KNYSNA NEWS - For many young people from disadvantaged communities, life after school can be a very uncertain prospect, with unemployment often seeming unavoidable.

But a Knysna-based skills development centre is changing that narrative by equipping young people with practical skills, confidence and, most importantly, a reason to believe they have a future.

Twenty young people from Knysna, Rheenendal and Plettenberg Bay graduated from the six-month Handyman Programme offered by the Hands & Hearts Skills Development Centre - a project of the non-profit organisation HopeHQ - on Thursday 18 June, marking another milestone for an organisation that has been transforming lives since 2014.

Established to empower underprivileged youth, the centre provides vocational training aimed at making young people employable in the construction industry while preparing them for the realities of the workplace.

Over six months, graduates received hands-on training in carpentry, joinery, electrical work, plumbing, masonry, roofing and computer literacy, while also developing essential workplace and interpersonal skills.

Students are exposed to real-world projects throughout the programme.

Previous intakes helped construct a church building, while this year's students manufactured kitchen cabinets that are now being sold commercially and assisted with repairs to a building damaged during recent storms.

"The programme is about far more than technical skills," said HopeHQ director Jean Botes. "Many graduates identify teamwork, communication and learning to work effectively on real projects as some of the most valuable aspects of their training."

Since opening its doors in 2014, about 250 students have completed the programme. Around 50% secure employment after graduating, while another 30% continue their studies through further training opportunities, including programmes offered by Africa Skills in George. Others go on to start small businesses of their own.

The centre also assists graduates with compiling CVs, improving their job readiness and applying for further studies.

Although there are no formal placement agreements, local businesses regularly approach the centre when seeking workers. The organisation is actively seeking partner-ships with businesses and donors who share its vision.

Hands & Hearts is expanding its footprint as demand for vocational training continues to grow.

This year, the annual intake increased from 24 to 30 students, while plans are under way to build four additional classrooms and introduce more specialised training programmes.

The organisation also encourages more young women to apply.

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