New Apostolic Church Converts Building into Skills Training Centre for Unemployed Youth in South Africa

The New Apostolic Church in South Africa has transformed a church building in Parkwood into a skills development centre aimed at empowering disadvantaged young people. The initiative, part of the Masakhe Foundation’s efforts, provides training in technical and vocational skills, offering participants a pathway out of unemployment and poverty. The project reflects the church’s commitment to community development and social responsibility.

The conversion of the church building into a training centre began in October 2022. Pews were dismantled and stored at another local church, while the hall was repurposed into classrooms. The effort was supported by the German relief organisation NAK-karitativ, which provided financial assistance. The centre officially opened on 6 February 2023, with District Apostle John Leslie Kriel, Chairman of the Masakhe Foundation, delivering a speech at the event.

In his address, Kriel emphasized the importance of proactive action in the face of unemployment. He stated, “Either you wait to be offered a job or you do something to escape the situation.” The Skills Unlimited Programme, launched alongside the training centre, offers young adults opportunities to acquire new skills and improve their employability. The initiative is designed to address the high unemployment rates in the Cape Town area, where poverty is also prevalent.

Fowiza Taliep, a participant in the computer course, described the learning environment as engaging and supportive. She expressed regret for not completing her formal education, highlighting the programme’s inclusive approach. Participants are selected based on their potential and need, regardless of their religious background or educational qualifications. The programme is specifically tailored for young people who face barriers in the job market.

Charmainne Kodia, a mother and grandmother, is one of the beneficiaries of the Skills Unlimited Programme. She enrolled in a hairdressing course after seeing a poster at a New Apostolic church. With the certificate she earned, Kodia now offers hairdressing services at home, providing income for her family. Her experience underscores the practical impact of the training centre on individuals’ lives.

Bishop Gregory February, executive director of the Masakhe Foundation, explained that the programme equips participants with the tools to either start their own micro-enterprises or seek employment. The initiative aligns with the church’s broader mission of fostering economic empowerment and social justice. By investing in skills development, the New Apostolic Church seeks to uplift communities and promote self-reliance, reflecting a commitment to both spiritual and material well-being.

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