Twelve Alex school leavers attended an employment readiness workshop convened by the Youth Advisory Centre and conducted by Art Smart Brand, a company which promotes art in disadvantaged communities.
The 12 apparently did not do well in matric and they seized the opportunity to get advice on how to prepare for work opportunities.
Vika Mjoka of the arts company spoke to the youngsters about various ways to prepare and develop self-confidence in their search for jobs. He spoke of how to develop positive presenting skills, having a vision and plan, and knowing the right questions to ask and the right people to speak to for work opportunities.
Mjoka also spoke to the group about how to structure impressive CVs. This he likened to a plumber looking for a plumbing job without his tools; or skilled employment seekers on the side of the street without paint brushes, bricklaying tools and overalls. He advised them to always have standard CVs with only essential informal that could be quickly restructured to suit various job opportunities.
He urged them to be honest in the information presented, as prospective employers could contact previous employers or persons stated as references for verification. This, he said, may include prison records which prospective employers would, without bias, give the applicant an opportunity to explain.
Mjoka encouraged the group to include hobbies and interests on their CVs which may help them gain volunteer or creative work.
