Empowering Youth, Breaking Cycles, and Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
At the heart of our mission lies a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact—not just for our clients and employees but also for the communities we serve. Our partnership with the ReStory Foundation is a testament to this commitment, addressing the challenges South Africa’s underprivileged youth face and equipping them with the tools, skills, and opportunities to rewrite their futures. This innovative collaboration transforms lives and fosters a sustainable workforce that drives social and business growth.
Addressing a Critical Need
South Africa’s youth face significant barriers to employment, from lack of access to quality education and job readiness programs to socio-economic constraints that limit their opportunities. For many, the path to gainful employment and self-sufficiency seems out of reach.
At Meridian, we believe businesses are responsible for bridging this gap. By investing in the potential of underprivileged youth, we’re creating opportunities for individuals and strengthening our communities’ foundation. Our partnership with the ReStory Foundation embodies this belief, providing a structured pathway for young people to gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in the modern workplace.
A Partnership Built on Purpose
The ReStory Foundation, with its mission to empower underprivileged youth, serves as an ideal partner for Meridian. Together, we’ve created a program beyond traditional corporate social responsibility. This isn’t about handouts but equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive.
- Work-Ready Training
ReStory prepares participants through workshops that teach vital professional skills such as communication, networking, and time management. These foundational skills help participants transition into workplace environments with confidence. - Learnership Programmes
Meridian offers comprehensive learnership programmes that blend theoretical training with practical, hands-on experience. Participants work across various departments, gaining insights into real business operations while working towards nationally recognised qualifications. - Mentorship and Support
Every participant is paired with mentors who guide, encourage, and advise throughout their journey. These mentors help bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application, fostering a supportive environment where participants can grow. - Integration into the Workforce
Upon successfully completing the programme, participants are considered for permanent positions within Meridian. Those who demonstrate strong work ethic, adaptability, and alignment with our values often join our team, becoming integral members of our workforce.
Transformative Results
Our partnership with the ReStory Foundation has had a profound impact—not just on the individuals involved but on our business and community.
- Youth Empowerment
Over the years, dozens of young people have completed our learnership programmes, gaining the skills and confidence to succeed. This opportunity has been life-changing for many, offering a clear pathway to stable employment and a brighter future. - A Stronger Workforce
By integrating talented, motivated individuals from diverse backgrounds into our team, we’ve created a workforce that is skilled and deeply committed to making an impact. These employees bring fresh perspectives, resilience, and a passion for growth. - Community Upliftment
The ripple effects of this programme extend far beyond individual participants. By empowering one person, we help uplift their families and communities, creating a cycle of positive change that strengthens society. - Sustainable Talent Pipeline
This initiative has also allowed us to build a robust pipeline of talent. By nurturing young individuals from the ground up, we’re creating a workforce that aligns with our values and is prepared to tackle future challenges.
A Commitment to the Future
The ReStory partnership is not just a programme—it’s a promise. At Meridian, we’re committed to continuing our work with the foundation to reach more young people, provide more opportunities, and drive greater impact. This initiative aligns with our broader vision of contributing to South Africa’s socio-economic development while strengthening our business through diverse talent.
Our goals for the future include:
- Expanding the reach of the programme to include more participants annually.
- Deepening the mentorship component to provide even greater support for learners.
- Enhancing the curriculum to include emerging skills, such as digital literacy and advanced communication techniques.
A Model for Social and Business Success
The partnership with the ReStory Foundation reflects the best of what corporate social responsibility can achieve: meaningful impact, sustainable outcomes, and mutual growth. At Meridian, we believe that businesses thrive when communities thrive, and this initiative embodies that philosophy. By investing in underprivileged youth, we’re changing lives and building a stronger, more inclusive workforce that will drive our success for years to come.