The programme says that the event highlighted the impact of the programme in empowering the youth with future-ready digital skills to excel in the 21st-century workplace.

This year's graduates expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the initiative, which equipped them with critical skills, says Digify. 

According to Digify, the skills include:

  • Digital Marketing Fundamentals & Introduction to Social Media Digital Strategy
  • Content Marketing
  • Introduction to Paid Advertising and Data-led Decision-Making
  • Introduction to e-Commerce and Website Content Management Systems
  • Craft Your Career
  • Paid Advertising
  • Google Ads and Analytics Certification, and
  • Content Marketing Certification. 

Digify says that not only did the graduates walk away with their Certifications but the top three students received the new HP laptops, headsets and computer mouses to kickstart their entrepreneurial journeys. 

A graduate, Mathapelo Mahloko who took position one in the cohort 2024 says that though she managed to win the first prize, the journey was not an easy one. "I am truly honoured to be among the top three students in this programme. It's a testament to hard work and passion for growth. The journey has been challenging and rewarding, and being recognised this way is incredibly fulfilling. I'm excited about the entrepreneur package and the opportunities it will create to bring my ideas to life and make a meaningful impact."

This sentiment is shared by her colleague Abigail Botma who obtained position two and says, "The Digify GP is an exceptional programme with a great support structure. It has provided me with a broad understanding and invaluable industry-relevant insights, equipping me with practical skills that I can now leverage having done all the specialisations. Securing second place receiving the Entrepreneurial Package is transformative for my business, giving me the tools and confidence to scale and expand in the digital space. I'm extremely grateful." 

Refentse Sethibang, the position three winner stresses how difficult the job market is, Digify GPs is a getaway to make things easier. "In this day and age finding a job is like a war, and often takes ages. The Digify GPs programme though, is exactly like giving me firepower in a stick fighting war. Making it to the top three gives me a real sense of fulfilment and progression, a drive to stay consistent."

Sethibang further says that the Entrepreneur Package to her is a reminder to stay consistent, take advantage of the opportunities that arise. 

The ceremony was attended by community and provincial government officials, partners and industry professionals, who commended the graduates on their hard work and dedication, says Digify. 

Digify Africa COO Qhakaza Mohare, says, "The success of our graduates is proof that when we invest in young people, we invest in the future of our country. These young leaders are now ready to drive innovation and growth in their communities. We are also grateful to our partners STANLIB and Elixirr for walking this journey with us to empower the youth in the Northern Cape."

Since its inception in 2022, Digify GP has been instrumental in changing lives positively. STANLIB has congratulated the graduates and wished them a successful career. "STANLIB Asset Management takes pride in shaping the digital futures of young participants through our commitment to innovation and empowerment. Over the past few years, we have witnessed remarkable growth as students enhanced their digital skills and knowledge while gaining confidence in their presentation abilities, thanks to real-life client briefs that mirror the dynamic investment landscape," says a STANLIB Spokesperson. 

"We extend gratitude to our local partners who have joined us on this transformative journey to uplift the lives of these young individuals. Congratulations to the graduates — this achievement is a testament to your dedication and hard work. We wish you all the success as you harness your new skills to empower the Northern Cape and beyond. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter, more progressive future," adds the STANLIB Spokesperson. 

Minna Eadie, Consultant at Elixirr Foundation, concludes, "It has been fantastic to witness the incredible progress made throughout the Digify GP Programme and see so many young people in South Africa empowered by the opportunity to engage with the course. This graduation marks the acquisition of valuable digital and professional skills — powerful tools that will enable the creation of sustainable livelihoods in the growing digital economy."

For more information, visit www.digifyafrica.com. You can also follow Digify Africa on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor