YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEEKING
On the 15th of May 2026, the University of Johannesburg Congolese Society hosted an Africa Day event under the theme Youth Unemployment and Job Seeking. The event created a space for students and young people to engage in important conversations surrounding employability, entrepreneurship, networking, and personal growth in today’s competitive world.
The discussions focused not only on positioning oneself as an employee in the workplace, but also on developing the mindset and skills necessary to become an entrepreneur and create opportunities for others.
We were honoured to host two guest speakers: Mr Christian Kayembe, founder of Classroom Buddies at UJ, and Mr Landry Mutombu, CEO of Insphired Recruitment. Both speakers shared valuable insights drawn from their personal and professional experiences.
Mr Christian Kayembe spoke on the importance of soft skills, entrepreneurship, and bridging the gap between traditional education and the modern workplace. He highlighted the importance of combining academic qualifications with digital competencies and encouraged students to continue learning beyond the boundaries of their degrees and areas of expertise. His message emphasized adaptability and continuous self-development in an ever-changing professional environment.
Mr Landry Mutombu focused on the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. Although this is a phrase many people are familiar with, he reminded us that the people we keep around us shape who we become. They challenge us, keep us accountable, and encourage us to grow intentionally. Another important point he touched on was mentorship. Mentors serve as guides and sources of wisdom, offering knowledge, direction, and support that can help shape both our personal and professional journeys.
One message that stood out throughout the event was the reminder that we are all entrusted with gifts, skills, and opportunities for a reason. At the end of the day, we will be held accountable for what we did with what we were given. Our talents are not only meant to benefit ourselves, but also to positively impact the lives of those around us.
Another key takeaway was the discussion around entrepreneurship and target markets. Many people hesitate to pursue their ideas because they believe the market is already saturated or that someone else is already doing what they want to do. However, the speakers reminded us that there is always a target market for everyone. What distinguishes people is their creativity, perspective, and ability to think differently. Understanding this allows individuals to approach opportunities with confidence and innovation rather than fear and comparison.
The Africa Day event was not only informative but also empowering. It challenged attendees to think beyond limitations, pursue growth intentionally, and recognize the value they can contribute to society. For those who attended, it was a meaningful opportunity to learn, reflect, and be inspired towards purposeful action in both their careers and personal lives.
