​Excitement and pride filled the air as proud parents gathered to celebrate the achievements of over fifty young graduates during a graduation ceremony at Philani Community Development Centre in Zuurbekom, Western Corridor.
The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, most of whom come from disadvantaged communities such as Mohlakeng, Zenzele, Burwa, Simunye, Bekkersdal, and Waterpan as they walked across the stage to receive their hard-earned certificates.

Philani Community Development Centre, a Non-Profit Organisation funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, has been an inspiration of hope in the rural area of Zuurbekom since 2001. The centre boasts 18 classrooms and offers a wide range of courses, including Agriculture, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Literacy, and Baking.

The centre was founded by Phyllis Malope, an experienced educationist who was moved by the lack of opportunities for youth in the area. Her passion and commitment have helped change countless lives.

“We encourage young people, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, to take these opportunities seriously. Once they complete their studies, we help them form cooperatives and apply for funding to start their own businesses. Many of our graduates are now successful entrepreneurs,” said Malope.

One of the shining examples of this transformation is 19-year-old Karabo Moremi, who was joined by his mother at the ceremony. Moremi has already secured a job as an Assistant Administrator at a nearby primary school, thanks to the training he received at the centre.

“On my first day, I was shocked to find out everything was free,” said Moremi. “I didn’t know what to expect, but I took as many courses as I could and completed all of them. Today, I’m working, and my parents are proud of me.”

Moremi had once dreamed of becoming an accountant, but financial constraints put that goal out of reach. Now, he said, this opportunity was the beginning of a new path, one he never expected but is fully embracing.

“I avoided drugs and stayed off the streets. My advice to other young people is, don’t sit at home doing nothing. Government programmes like these are real, they can change your life for the better,” he added.

Philani Community Development Centre continues to play an important role in uplifting youth, offering them not just skills, but a sense of purpose and hope for a better future.

As the graduation ceremony ended, it was clear that Philani is more than a centre, it's a lifeline, proving that when government partners with passionate community leaders, transformation is not just possible, it's happening.