South Africa, Elsies River — Genesis CITI’s I-CAN Centre proudly marks its 9th anniversary, celebrating nearly a decade of transformative work aimed at bridging the digital divide in South Africa. On October 25, 2024, the I-CAN Centre hosted a special event to honor the achievements of its youth and highlight the significant impact of its programs in reshaping the narrative of unemployment in the region.
A key highlight of the anniversary was the graduation of participants from the Mobile Phone Repair Skills Training Project. In 2024, these young individuals received invaluable mentorship from the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), which assisted them in registering as a cooperative. SEDA also provided essential funding for assets, enabling these budding entrepreneurs to launch their own mobile phone repair businesses and take charge of their futures. This initiative led to the establishment of two cooperatives, advancing the social entrepreneurship model within the community.
As a leading non-profit digital skills training institution, Genesis CITI is globally certified and accredited, focusing on IT and business skills training as vital enablers of job growth.
Since its inception in September 2015, Genesis CITI has created over 20,000 training opportunities, primarily targeting youth in the Cape Flats region, thanks to the support of its funding partners. The I-CAN Centre has facilitated 112,023 access visits over the past nine years, providing complimentary access to technology, including free Wi-Fi and a variety of digital services. This commitment to digital inclusion and empowerment has been pivotal in fostering a knowledge society and developing a skilled workforce for the digital economy.
The I-CAN Centre goes beyond traditional skills training by offering open creative spaces where young individuals can cultivate social innovation initiatives through design thinking programs, particularly supporting aspiring entrepreneurs. The Cape Flats region, especially Elsies River, has faced significant challenges, including substance abuse and high unemployment rates among youth. Recognizing the pressing skills crisis that exacerbates these issues, Genesis CITI has been at the forefront of equipping marginalized communities with the necessary tools to thrive in the digital economy.
As they celebrate this milestone, Genesis CITI remains committed to empowering youth and fostering a brighter future through digital skills training and entrepreneurship. Here’s to many more years of making a difference!
