Coding course helps launch trainees into tech industry
The course graduates with their certificates, in front, from left, are Harerimana Dieudonne, Chezlin Benson, Tersia Koetzee, Christain Mfuke and Chandre de Wet. Back: Christopher Koetzee, Catalina-Alexandra Jora, Advocate Maroga and Riyaaz Singh.
Eleven people from Bellville, Kuils River, Mitchell’s Plain and Panorama who completed a year-long course on website development with help from an international NPO received their certificates in Bellville on Saturday.
The course was facilitated through CodeYourFuture (CYF), a UK-based NPO that helps disadvantaged people to become web developers and find work in the tech industry.
“They were trained in software development by professionals from the tech industry. As a final project, trainees created web applications for local NPOs and schools. CYF is now supporting trainees during their job search and preparing them for interviews,” said CYF volunteer Ridhwaana Baradien.
One of the graduates, Catalina-Alexandra Jora, of Panorama, said that as a Romanian living in Cape Town she had battled to find employment because her qualifications were not recognised and she lacked confidence using English.
“However, I had a hunch that the field of technology would suit my personality, so I began exploring a bit of coding through platforms like Codecademy and FreeCodeCamp. I discovered CodeYourFuture online, reviewed their values section - I loved it - and decided to apply.
“Initially, I didn't believe I had much of a chance due to being middle-aged and not having outstanding English skills. Nonetheless, I was accepted into the programme, and I felt extremely excited about the opportunity.”
The support from her fellow trainees and the volunteers had also helped her to persevere, she said.
Chezlin Benson, of Bellville, said he had also battled with unemployment.
“Completing the software development programme has been life changing. I've gained so much confidence and now have a clear vision of my goals and how to achieve them. I've received solid tech skills, personal development, mentorship by industry professionals and a collaborative community. I’m thrilled to finally graduate. I'm a designer, artist and now a developer too.”
CYF South Africa programme manager Shaun Thomas, said: “They’re now equipped with the tools to excel in the tech industry. The tech industry is the way of the future and has many job opportunities, but not everyone has equal access to tech education.”