Masslift Africa, the sole distributor of Mitsubishi Forklifts in Southern Africa, remains committed to the youth of South Africa, especially during Youth Month. Recognising the importance of our youth in the economy and future of our country, Masslift Africa has partnered with Cletech Cares, a non-profit organisation dedicated to youth empowerment, to host a transformative Work Readiness programme called "Recruit You(th)." 

This programme aims to equip young individuals with the necessary tools and skills to enhance their employability. The most recent edition of the programme took place at Moletsane High School, impacting 173 matriculants. Recruit You(th) was designed to address the challenges many young South Africans face in their transition from school to the workplace. The comprehensive workshop, sponsored by Masslift Africa, focused on providing students with essential knowledge on job search and employment preparation. The programme covered various topics, including CV formatting, dressing for success, interview techniques, understanding trades, and workplace etiquette. By empowering matriculants with essential skills and knowledge, the programme aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, fostering a brighter future for the participants.

"The programme helped me understand how to draft a CV, how to look smart when going to the interview and how to behave and act in an interview; I learned great things yesterday and am grateful to be part of it", Lehlohonolo Thendingwane, learner Moletsane High School.

Masslift Africa’s 2022 Technician of the Year, Jacob Mothlaka addressed the matriculants on the day taking them through his journey to becoming a forklift technician, further emphasising that there were different routes available post matric. Thembi Mazibuko, Chief Financial Officer at Masslift Africa also shared her journey to become a Chartered Accountant and provided examples of resources that the learners could explore for funding as well as training contracts. Mazibuko also added that Masslift Africa had a MERSETA accredited apprenticeship program for learners who were interested in becoming qualified forklift technicians.

Commenting on the partnership, Gin McLellan, Director at Cletech Cares, said, "It is a privilege to join forces with Masslift Africa to empower the youth through the Recruit You(th) programme. We are committed to fostering personal growth and creating opportunities for young people to unlock their potential. Together, we aim to inspire, educate, and support the next generation of South African professionals."

Mazibuko added, "Youth unemployment is escalating at an alarming rate, and as responsible corporate citizens, we should all play an active role in reducing it. Masslift Africa's collaboration with Cletech Cares on empowering Grade 12 students with work readiness information is an effort to provide young people with all possible options for their next steps. As a company, Masslift Africa is committed to training and upskilling the youth in our employment and the communities within which we operate. Tata Mandela once said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.' After spending a day with curious and intelligent minds at Moletsane High School, I hope that with collaboration, education and raising awareness for our youth to thrive, we can challenge and change the status quo one initiative at a time."

The successful implementation of the Recruit You(th) programme at Moletsane High School highlights the positive impact of collaboration between corporate entities and non-profit organisations in addressing critical societal challenges. Masslift Africa remains dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of South African youth and looks forward to contributing more to the youth development space in the future.