One of the greatest challenges young people entering the workforce face today is the lack of soft skills. So much emphasis is placed on technical skills and training that those skills that are also essential for moving successfully through the workforce are often forgotten. From effective communication to managing interpersonal relationships, how to remain professional in the face of adversity, and how to navigate the work environment, soft skills are as much about life skills as they are about business skills.
Dynamic Technologies group company Dynamic DNA, an ICT training Academy accredited with the MICT SETA, focuses on providing Scarce Skills IT training along with these essential soft skills. Dynamic DNA’s purpose is bridging the gap between companies that require expert technology professionals, and young learners with the aptitude and ability to step into these positions.
The Vaxowave Systems Development Level 5 internship programme is one of the internship programmes run by Dynamic DNA. Dynamic DNA Programme Manager Heidi Smith says, “The learners for this programme were interviewed by Senior Management of Vaxowave, all of which are technically proficient in Systems Development.” Dynamic DNA Talent Manager Sandy Macaulay adds, “The interview process was gruelling, and the candidates were interviewed not only for their soft skills, but also for their technical knowledge. Vaxowave ended up selecting seven learners for the programme.”
As part of the programme, Vaxowave conducted numerous Mentor Sessions with the interns to ensure they were up to date with current industry trends, and the interns also completed two International IT qualifications in addition to the Level 5 Systems Development Learnership. Nontokozo Hazel Mathe and Madichaba Sarah Poone are Top Achievers in the programme and are considered top notch participants in terms of attitude, aptitude, attendance, and dedication.
Both trainees are aiming to become full-stack developers and will continue to grow their skills, expand their understanding of programming, acquire a sense of how an office environment functions, and learn how to collaborate with others
Nontokozo Hazel Mathe
“The soft and technical skills I learned will undoubtedly have a positive impact on my working life. Dynamic DNA and Vaxowave gave me the chance to develop myself and discover my untapped potential. I'm happy that my introduction to the industry was facilitated by Dynamic DNA, as their strategy provided me with the courage to enter into this field without hesitation and with more skills than I could have gained if I had been dropped in without any preparation.”
Madichaba Sarah Poone
“My software development skills have improved as a result of this programme, and I now have a better understanding of how things operate in a real working environment. I strongly believe that with all the training and classes I have had, now I can boldly say I am ready for employment, because the skills that I have are enough for me to be in a junior position. The technical and soft skills I have acquired are essential to success in this career, and the personal qualities I have developed are essential to my success as an employee. I have learnt to take responsibility for my actions and to recognise that everything I do influences everyone with whom I interact. I’ve also learned that having a high level of emotional intelligence is necessary for success.”
Two highly driven young women who understand that they have control over their future and their success, Madichaba and Nontokozo believe that the Dynamic DNA internship programme has changed their lives. These two powerhouses have gained the skills, knowledge, and self-assurance to enter the workforce confidently and make their mark – a win-win for all.
“We nurture and foster potential to develop essential skills and strong leaders in the ICT sector, closing the skills gap through SETA-accredited training in collaboration with our clients and partners. We are very proud of Madichaba, Nontokozo and indeed all our interns and graduates who bring their highly sought-after skill sets to this industry,” says Prudence Mathebula, Managing Director, Dynamic DNA.