By: Monti Montsha

On 08 November 2019, ACTIVATE! Change Drivers hosted a premier formal networking and thanks giving event to the selfless stakeholders who continue to make the ACTIVATE! mission possible year after year. The event took place in the elegant surrounding of a great room at Dasslers Restaurant. This partner’s dinner was intended to provide activators and stakeholders the opportunity to network whilst enjoying a superb 3-course meal and fine wine to wash the delicious food down.

As soon as the clock struck 19:00, the annual partner dinner had begun.  Guests showed up to honor stakeholders who funded the program throughout the year. These special donors and  honorees for the evening incorporated: DOC (Department of Communication), Unlockd, The Innovation Hub Management Company, Trevor Noah Foundation, BIZZBEAN SA (Pty) Ltd, Digify Africa, Mtelecoms, Enlek: Make your mark, 8een Concepts, TSHOKMA, Braam Bike, Corrupt Watch, PrTrendsZA, IPAS, Boitshoko Consulting, Mogale Youth Chamber and Callback Dreams.

In order to create a celebratory atmosphere, Capacity Building Coordinator, Bongiwe Ndlovu (2013 KZN Activator) rejuvenated and maintained the beautiful energy of this yearly event. This fun-filled network soiree included Nomvuyiso Batyi, who represented Ministry Communication of the Republic of South Africa.  She came with briefing notes, jam-packed with opportunities for young people.

Batyi  ignited her speech, by clearing up the government’s 4IR Vision which she explained as the opportunity for all in society to participate in the digital economy, whether it be social welfare or business interests; as creators or consumers of goods and services, whether trading locally, regionally or internationally.

‘Creative will never lose their jobs, and being a creative takes talent not a number of degrees under your belt.’- she said

‘To this end, the National Digital Skills Strategy has been submitted to cabinet for approval and we have- through partnerships with portfolio entities and stakeholders such as MICT SETA, Telkom, Cisco Vodacom, MTN Google and Microsoft, amongst others- trained more than 20 000 young people in data science and related skills- including cloud computing, digital content production, 3D printing, Drone piloting, Cyber security and Software development.’- She added.

Batyi also announced a number of opportunities for young South Africans which includes, the MICT SETA program for Digital Content Production next year’s intake 2020/21. NEMISA is, in addition, going to provide radio and TV production, 2 and 3D animation, graphic design and gaming.

Most importantly however, all selfless donors had a spectacular time and great moments at the event. Chanting the words ‘WE DID IT TOGETHER’ with energetic happy voices that prove that with time and not numbers, they will continue to make the ACTIVATE! Change Drive’s mission possible.