Youth Month was a combination of celebration and hope for Tongaat Hulett. We had the privilege of empowering young minds in two incredible ways:
Our first stop was the PROTEC Tongaat Post School Graduation Awards Day at Allan Gray. It was an inspiring day where we celebrated the remarkable achievements of the 2024 graduates. This ceremony wasn’t just about recognising academic success. It was a celebration of PROTEC’s vision in action – equipping these young people with essential STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and life skills to thrive in exciting careers. The graduates themselves expressed heartfelt gratitude to PROTEC’s sponsors, including Tongaat Hulett, for investing in their education and making this journey possible. We were also happy to see that alumni have gone on to find success as engineers, architects, scientists, doctors, and more.
Our commitment to empowering youth continued with the Nkanini Career Expo & Sports Day. Over 2,000 learners across 4 high schools were exposed to bursary programmes, internships, apprenticeships, and essential information on academic requirements and courses. The learners also got the opportunity to connect with each other by competing in a soccer and netball tournament, with Banguni Combined crowned champions for both the soccer and netball tournaments. The impact extended beyond the learners. The event fostered economic participation through local vendors on site, further strengthening the community. This day would not have been possible without the support of Inkosi DZ Gumede of the Qwabe Nkanini Traditional Council and the Qwabe Nkanini Trust. They helped us successfully deliver over 31,720 tons of sugarcane and create over 80 seasonal jobs in the 2023/24 season.
We want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who made these events possible. Together, we’re Growing A Sweet Future where every young person can flourish and contribute their unique talents to a better tomorrow.
