I decided to write this foreword because I was inspired and excited by what I read!
In June, we celebrated Youth Day in lockdown. The Soweto youth uprising in 1976 was an important milestone in the anti-Apartheid movement, which is why the uprising itself is commemorated yearly. The annual Youth Day celebrations also highlight the importance of youth in our society. Especially in South Africa, where 35% of our population is between the ages of 15 and 34 (Stats SA, 2019), the youth of our country is an important contributor to society. It is therefore important that the country listens to the voice of the youth.
It is equally important to consider the contribution that youth can make to our society. Especially amidst all the bad news and negativity that goes with the current COVID-19 crisis, youth can play an important role by coming forward and offering their services during these tough times. The youth are healthy, alert and brimming with ideas. While making an income is important, contributing to the society is equally or perhaps more important, especially in these times. Our country therefore needs the heads, hearts, and hands of our youth to take us into the New Normal.
And it is exactly that positivity that the student members at SABPP have given me during this crisis. In fact, I decided to write this foreword because I was inspired and excited by what I read! The contributors to this edition of the People Factor have shown that they have what it takes. This edition of People Factor includes articles on the challenges we face as a young democracy, embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, what Green HR Management is, innovation and HR and practical tips on writing CVs and attending interviews. There is something in here not just for the youth but for each and every HR professional. What’s more – we have contributions from all over the country from Witbank and Bloemfontein to Durban and Potchefstroom to Port Elizabeth and Cape Town.
Thanks to our student members, we have an opportunity to refresh some of our basics and to remind ourselves about what is ultimately important. I am truly inspired and hopeful after I read these articles, and I hope you will be too.
SABPP thanks our student members!
