Ward 62 youth aged 18–35 can sign up for free podcasting and digital entrepreneurship training during the September school holidays.

Origin of the Initiative

Ward 62 councillor Emile Langenhoven credits a brainstorming session with sparking the idea for the initiative. The idea for podcasting training emerged after a previous computer literacy programme struggled to attract enough participants. The initiative will now be brought to life through funding from the Ward Allocation budget.

Economic opportunity

“I watch a lot of podcasts and beyond watching, I think about the research that goes into them,” Langenhoven said.

He sees an economic opportunity for young people. Many can create products and, by doing so ethically, gain economic benefits.

Tender process and outreach

The City hasn’t issued a tender yet. Langenhoven said they will announce the tender process and outline their requirements.

He acknowledged that the ward presents a difficult demographic but hopes to get more youth involved. Many unemployed young people live in Plumstead, and he will personally try to reach them by going door to door.

Programme capacity

Due to available budget, there is a 40-participant cap, with participants split into two groups of 20. Langenhoven said he wishes he could accommodate more and would train 100 people if the budget allowed.

Definition of success

For Langenhoven, success means participants leave with a skill. He wants them not only to be employable but also to become entrepreneurs.

He hopes to reach people from under-resourced communities. If the 40 spots are not filled by residents of Ward 62, registration will be opened to people from other wards.

Vision and future plans

“There is so much hidden talent in our communities,” Langenhoven said. “The City of Cape Town stands as a city of hope. People have opportunities regardless of their background to create employment. Who knows, they may use that skill in the future.”

If the programme succeeds, Langenhoven will prioritise it again when voters next go to the polls.

To apply, contact Amanda Lancaster at amanda.lancaster@capetown.gov.za.