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In the sprawling township of Khayelitsha, nestled within the Western Cape of South Africa, a beacon of hope shines bright amidst the challenges of everyday life. Since 2017, Iliso Care Society, in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the Independent Development Trust (IDT), has been pioneering a transformative initiative, creating opportunities where once there were only barriers through the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP).
In 2017, Iliso expanded its EPWP services to the Eastern Cape Queenstown at the Ntabethemba Village, implementing community services in ThornHill, Maqwati, Barclysfarm, Ikhwezi, Phumlani, and schools in the surrounding areas.
With unwavering support from the DPWI and IDT, Iliso Care Society has been instrumental in forging a path to prosperity for the residents of Khayelitsha and the Western Cape. Through their tireless efforts, they have unlocked doors to employment, creating an impressive 5,800 job opportunities within Khayelitsha alone, and an additional 2,800 across various municipalities in the Western Cape. In the Eastern Cape, Iliso has unlocked doors to employment for another 4,900 people.
What sets this program apart is its inclusive approach. Unlike traditional employment programs, Iliso Care Society's initiative doesn't require specific qualifications for people to participate. Instead, it offers participants a chance to gain valuable experience across a spectrum of work opportunities, empowering them to chart their own paths toward economic independence.
For many, these job opportunities are a lifeline, a means to break free from the cycle of poverty and despair. In a community where making ends meet can often feel like an insurmountable challenge, Iliso Care Society provides a ray of hope, offering not just jobs, but a chance at a brighter future.
Thobeka Ziwele began volunteering at Iliso in 2005 as a cook. At the time near its inception, it was very difficult for Iliso to pay stipends and salaries to the volunteers. In 2015, Iliso was selected as an implementing partner to the IDT. It was a dream come true for Thobeka, offering the chance to earn an income. We observed that she is very passionate about working with children and the Iliso Board decided to expose her to the Iliso Day Care Centre Services. She was successful and now currently works as an Early Childhood Practitioner for Iliso. We supported her by applying for Early Childhood Development (ECD) course at Sikhula Sonke. She is now a qualified ECD practitioner still earning a salary through EPWP.
"I want to thank Iliso management for their trust in me, empowering me with all the skills I have. I joined Iliso in 2005 as a cook and now I am an ECD practitioner. I didn't know that I will be teaching children due to my level of eduation, but Iliso breaks that stereotype and helped me to understand that passion, commitment, skills, and talent are key to success"
The partnership between Iliso Care Society, the DPWI, and IDT stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion. Together, they are transforming lives, one job opportunity at a time, and paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
The impact of this Department of Public Works project extends far beyond the borders of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, but to the whole of South Africa. Iliso Care Society's reach stretches across the Western Cape and Eastern Cape, creating job opportunities in municipalities such as West Coast, City of Cape Town, Overberg, Drakestein, and Cape Winelands. Their commitment to uplifting communities knows no bounds, with job opportunities also emerging in the Eastern Cape, in municipalities like Enoch Mgima, Emalahleni, and Chris Hani at Queenstown.
Through their dedication and perseverance, Iliso Care Society is not only keeping people off the streets but also instilling a sense of dignity and purpose. By providing avenues for employment, they are empowering individuals to provide for their families and build a better future for generations to come.