Navigating the journey from high school to a fulfilling career can be challenging for many young learners. People’s Post spoke to Future Pathways Consultants, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to making this journey smoother and more informed for learners in the country, particularly those in Grades 9-12.
Navigating the journey from high school to a fulfilling career can be challenging for many young learners. People’s Post spoke to Future Pathways Consultants, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to making this journey smoother and more informed for learners in the country, particularly those in Grades 9-12.
Recognising the critical need for structured and informed career guidance in South African schools, founders Phelo Sifile and Dean Mazhawidza, both registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), saw a chance to make a meaningful impact in the shape of future employers, employees, entrepreneurs and business owners in South Africa.
The NGO was established out of a deep-seated passion for helping young people navigate the often complex and daunting process of career planning.
The importance of career guidance
According to Sifile, career guidance is crucial as it provides learners with the information and support, they need to make informed decisions about their future. It helps them understand their strengths, interests and values, aligning these with potential career paths. “Effective career guidance reduces the likelihood of learners making misguided educational and career choices, thereby enhancing their chances of success and satisfaction in their professional lives. Additionally, it fosters career maturity, personal agency, and self-efficacy, essential qualities for navigating the modern job market,” says Sifile.
Early intervention and continuous support
Career guidance should ideally start as early as Grade 9, with evaluations conducted in Grade 8 already to ensure that consultants have a baseline of the students they will be facilitating in the following schooling year. This is a pivotal time when learners begin making subject choices that can influence their future career options. Early guidance helps learners explore different career paths, understand the relevance of their subject choices and set realistic goals.
The role of parents in career guidance
Future Pathways Consultants believe that parents play a crucial role in this process. They should be actively involved by supporting their children in exploring various career options, encouraging open discussions about interests and aspirations, and helping them research different fields. Parents can also participate in career guidance sessions and events to better understand the landscape and the opportunities available for their children. By being involved, parents can provide the emotional and practical support that learners need to make confident and informed decisions.
The Golden Triangle model
“At Future Pathways Consultants, we believe in the ‘Golden Triangle Model’, where the learner is at the core,” explained Sifile.
Parents, teachers and consultants at FPC each play a vital role. This collaborative approach ensures that every learner receives well-rounded support that fosters their personal and professional growth.
“Career guidance is not just about choosing a job, it’s about building a future,” said Sifile.
‘Be well-informed’
Learners should be well-informed about several key areas to make informed career decisions:
- Self-Assessment: Understanding their own strengths, interests and values through assessments and counselling.
- Career Options: Exploring a wide range of career fields and understanding the requirements and opportunities within each.
- Educational Pathways: Learning about the different educational routes, including university degrees, vocational training, and apprenticeships.
- Job Market Trends: Staying updated on current and future job market trends to identify growing industries and in-demand skills.
- Subject Relevance: Understanding how their subject choices in high school can impact their future career options.
- Higher Education Institutions: Researching universities and colleges, comparing courses, and understanding the application process.
- Financial Planning: Gaining information on scholarships, bursaries, and other financial aid options to support their education.
- Work Experience: Opportunities for internships, job shadowing, and networking to gain practical experience and insights into different careers.
By providing learners with comprehensive and relevant information in these areas, one empowers them to make choices that are well-informed and aligned with their personal goals.
Learners can get in touch with Future Pathway Consultants via email at dean@futurepathways.org.za or phelojoe@futurepathways.org.za Future Pathway Consultations can also be contacted on 076 433 2594. Or visit their Website: https://www.futurepathways.org.za/
