iSpani, a 2015 SAFTA winner is a docu-reality show that has followed the journey of over 300 young South African workplace entrants for six seasons. Season seven, coming to SABC1, has a new improved format that inspires others to pursue the job they desire.
Candidates, also known as iSpani Hustlers, from across the country, take us through their interview process and skills assessment at leading host companies to their final step to joining the formal economy; some meeting the standards and others having to reconsider their choices and future options.
“With the alarming unemployment rate and the pressure of family responsibility that thousands of young people face, iSpani also shares careers and jobs young people can access while they are in that transition period,” says Surekha Singh, commissioning editor at SABC education.
Joining a company with iSpani not only tests entrants’ specific career-related skills but also looks to behavioural and personal traits. Selvan Munsamy, programme producer at Blue Wizard Productions says; “you can study for years but not be a team player or know how to communicate your potential to possible employers. Watching iSpani, you find out what you need to bring to the position and how to fit into the culture of the company. You learn how to make yourself stand out from the crowd.”
These ‘softer’ skills are reviewed and enhanced by career coach Pula Matsaung, who identifies the best learning path based on skills, schooling, and funding for viewers who may want to join the same industry. Popular presenter, Mac Lushomo, brings encouragement and his own brand of humour to the hour with commentary brain teasers and inspiration to encourage viewers to join the iSpani conversation on social media.
Singh says; “This shares experiential learning in an entertaining and emotional hour with our many viewers, allowing them to make informed choices at a critical point in their lives.”
iSpani will be on every Tuesday at 13:30 on SABC1 from Tuesday, 23 February.