Touching Dreams

The Think Big Academy is a programme that trains and prepares people from disadvantaged communities for roles in hospitality. The goal is to alleviate youth unemployment, by offering learnership opportunities to people who can’t find gainful employment due to a lack of qualifications or work experience.

Its aim is to fill the hospitality industry skills gap while uplifting and empowering communities where tourism is prevalent.

The learnership programme is aimed at:

  • Anyone, aged 18 to 28, who is unemployed and lacks access to tertiary education.
  • Individuals living in remote areas where hospitality providers operate.
  • People with or without work experience, with a positive attitude and desire to enter the world of hospitality with enthusiasm and commitment.

‘Hospitality isn’t just a job. It’s a fulfilling career and our learnerships provide the training and support that young people need to build a successful future in our industry.’

About the programme

  • Duration
    • One month induction and 11 months of work experience
    • 5-10 hours per week of online learning
    • A guaranteed permanent employment contract after completing the course
  • Available Courses
    • Higher certificate in food and beverage management: room service, restaurant and bar
    • Higher certificate in hospitality management: front office, reception, guest relations
    • Higher certificate in event management: conference banqueting
    • CATHSSETA Field Guide
    • QCTO occupational certificate: Cook
  • Admission requirements
    • South African National senior certificate with admission to study a higher certificate or completion of Grade 10 and passing the competency assessment
    • Must be a South African National

Apply for a learnership: LEARN MORE

Support this initiative: GET INVOLVED or DONATE