“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
— Nelson Mandela
World Youth Skills Day is observed on the 15th of July each year. This day is dedicated to highlighting the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in the workforce. In South Africa, where youth unemployment is one of the highest in the world, the need for vocational training, mentorship, and meaningful work experience is vital.
At Thornybush, we believe in the power of education to unlock opportunity, inspire ambition, and create real change in communities. That’s why, for the past 12 years, Thornybush Community has proudly partnered with the South African College for Tourism (SACT) to help talented and passionate young people from our neighbouring communities build careers in the tourism and hospitality sector.
Each year, five young people from local communities are selected through an application and interview process based on their potential, passion, and commitment to a future in hospitality. These students are awarded a full bursary to study for a year at SACT in Graaff-Reinet, where they receive training in key areas such as customer service, food and beverage, housekeeping, and front-of-house operations. Just as important, they also develop essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management , all crucial for life in any professional setting.
After completing their studies, these students are placed in a year-long, paid internship at one of Thornybush’s lodges. This experience is designed to consolidate their classroom learning with hands-on experience in a high-end hospitality environment. Through this they gain an in-depth understanding of workplace expectations and industry standards while working alongside an experienced team of passionate people.
To date, we’re proud to report that around 50% of students who complete the internship are offered permanent employment at Thornybush Game Lodge, Saseka and Simbambili. Those we cannot place directly are still supported by our team to find employment elsewhere or pursue further studies.
One of the most inspiring examples is Martha Mhlongo, who graduated from SACT in 2024. Her talent and drive earned her the Best Chef Award at graduation, and she placed third in the Fab Chef competition held at the college. Today, she is thriving as an intern chef at Saseka, applying her skills and creativity in a professional kitchen, and serving as a role model to the next generation.
“Skills training in hospitality offers so much more than technical ability. The industry teaches young people discipline, responsibility, and how to communicate effectively across cultures. It builds confidence, encourages adaptability, and fosters a spirit of collaboration. Through exposure to real-world settings, internships create space for growth, learning, and self-discovery. Most importantly, programmes like this give young people a sense of purpose and a tangible pathway to a better future” says Busiwe Chauke, General Manager, Thornybush Community.
On World Youth Skills Day, we stand alongside organisations and educators across the globe who are working to empower the youth. At Thornybush, our commitment is rooted in community, sustained by partnerships, and driven by the belief that with the right support, young people can change not only their own lives but the trajectory of their communities too.
