But more than the barbering skills learned, the course aimed to provide an opportunity to build the confidence of local youths, evident by the feedback the team received from trainees like Bongani Elgigin Pretorius, aged 30, and Shaheed Naran, aged 43, says the NPO.

"Our Business in a Box barbering and grooming training was an intensive, successful and impactful five day course, producing market-ready skills that enable immediate economic participation within the communities of each trainee. Each participant graduated with an all-inclusive barbering kit and equipment to immediately start generating income within their neighbourhoods," says Rika Haasbroek, Manager: Corporate Social Investment at Clover. 

"We knew that the concept would be well received and a practical income earning opportunity, but a more unexpected, beautiful part of the course was when we saw the impact it had on the confidence of our trainees," adds Haasbroek.

Programme Graduate, Bongani Pretorius, was initially raised by Mama Mtebeni and later on, by Mama Nolitha Ndalasi's Sinethemba Community Organisation in Harare, Khayelitsha after being orphaned at a young age and born with fetal alcohol syndrome. The training became an opportunity to build his confidence and believe in his potential, says the NPO.

"The programme gave me confidence and showed me that I am capable of achieving something positive. Success is about more than completing the course. It's about using my skills to help others, creating opportunities for myself and eventually training and employing other young people," says Pretorius.

Shaheed Naran, from the Quegal Restoration and Refuge Centre in Magaliesburg was also given the opportunity to complete the programme, an experience that aimed to offer more than technical training. Having overcome personal challenges that reshaped his outlook on life, Naran says he embraced his faith and rediscovered his passion for barbering with renewed purpose.

"I've gone through many trials, but they don't define me. This training reignited a passion I already had and reminded me that I have purpose," says Naran. 

Today, Naran says he measures success by the confidence each client leaves with and hopes to one day open a barber shop in his community, where he can also mentor others. His journey aims to reflect the mission of the Quegal Restoration and Refuge Centre, founded by Mama Gail Koeberg, whose own experience inspired her to create a safe space where vulnerable people can rebuild their lives through practical skills training and restoration, adds the NPO.

"For many young South Africans, unemployment can leave them feeling overlooked and uncertain about what the future holds. Seeing these young men leave with renewed enthusiasm and confidence filled us with hope," says Haasbroek. 

Both graduates hope that more young people will seize similar opportunities to develop practical skills, gain valuable experience and unlock their potential, adds the NPO.

They believe that initiatives such as Clover Mama Afrika's Barbering and Grooming Training Programme can offer far more than technical training: they can restore confidence, foster resilience and create pathways to sustainable livelihoods, says the NPO.

By empowering young South Africans to overcome adversity and become active contributors to their communities, the programme aims to help to build a brighter and more inclusive future, concludes the NPO.

For more information, visit www.clovermamaafrika.com. You can also follow Clover Mama Afrika on Facebook, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor