Plastics SA is proud to announce the addition of three dynamic interns to its team as part of the South African Government’s Youth Employment Service (YES) programme. The initiative, which seeks to empower young South Africans by providing them with valuable work experience, is being hosted by Plastics SA, with Safripol generously funding the interns' salaries for the year. 

The YES programme aims to reduce youth unemployment by creating work opportunities for young people across various industries. It equips participants with skills and experience that enable them to contribute meaningfully to the economy while fostering personal and professional growth.

This year, Plastics SA welcomes: 

Oratile Kadiege

Hailing from Moretele, a small village in Hammanskraal, North-West, Oratile Kadiege, 22, is interning in the Technical Department under the guidance of Annabe Pretorius. A graduate of Tshwane University of Technology with a BEng Tech in Materials Engineering specialising in Polymer Technology, Oratile is eager to contribute to the sustainable development of the plastics industry. 

“Since October 1, 2024, I’ve been immersed in a learning process that has both inspired and challenged me,” Oratile shared. “The interview process stood out for me because of the expertise and clarity Annabe demonstrated about the industry, and working here has exceeded my expectations. While there have been challenges, I’ve grown professionally and personally. The experience has deepened my understanding of polymer science and sustainability, and I am excited about the future.” 

Nkosingiphile "Philie" Gumede

Working at Plastics SA’s regional office in KwaZulu-Natal, Philie is leveraging her Diploma in Public Administration: Supply Chain Management from Durban University of Technology. In her role, she supports ongoing projects and gains hands-on experience in administration and project management. 

“I was raised in Durban, where the community instilled resilience and emotional intelligence in me,” Philie said. “My mother and the adage, it takes a village to raise a child,’ shaped me into the person I am today. I am passionate about learning and travel, and I’m excited to grow my skills and make a positive impact. Winston Churchill’s words, ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts,’ motivate me to keep pushing forward.” 

Lwandile Dladla

A 21-year-old intern in the Administrative Department at Plastics SA’s head office in Midrand, Lwandile is a soon-to-be graduate with a Diploma in Event Management from Tshwane University of Technology. Passionate about community service, Lwandile balances her career ambitions with hobbies such as reading, meditating, and dancing. 

“This internship is an incredible opportunity to grow both professionally and personally,” Lwandile said. “I’m excited to further my education in Project Management while contributing to Plastics SA’s vision. Volunteering and giving back to my community enrich my life and reinforce my belief that we can all make a positive difference.” 

A Commitment to Youth Empowerment

 Anton Hanekom, Executive Director at Plastics SA, emphasised the importance of investing in young talent: “Youth employment is crucial for South Africa’s future. Internships like those offered through the YES programme provide young people with invaluable exposure to the workplace and prepare them to lead with confidence and expertise. We are grateful to Safripol for their financial support, which has made it possible for us to empower these individuals. Together, we are helping to shape the future of the plastics industry and South Africa as a whole.” 

Plastics SA and Safripol remain committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and the development of future leaders through initiatives like the YES programme.