Joburg Tourism training opens doors to permanent careers

As South Africa celebrates Tourism Month, the journeys of Veronica Lekoloane, Nobuhle Thembani and Ncebakazi Mohapi highlight how tourism can create employment opportunities, develop workplace skills and open pathways to sustainable careers for young people. Through the Joburg Tourism and Hospitality Vocational Training Programme, formerly known as the Tourism Ambassador Programme, young people gain practical workplace experience at tourism attractions, heritage sites, visitor touchpoints, hotels and events across Johannesburg.

The programme develops skills in customer service, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, destination knowledge and professionalism. During the 2023/24 and 2025/26 cycles, 300 Tourism Ambassadors were placed at tourism sites and hospitality establishments, with eight subsequently securing permanent employment.

From hope to opportunity

For Veronicca Lekoloane (29), the programme provided a second chance after financial constraints prevented her from completing studies in human resources and psychology.

She joined the programme in October 2023 and was initially placed at 27 Boxes in Melville before moving to the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre. There, she welcomed visitors, assisted tourists and supported daily operations while developing her confidence and customer service skills.

Her commitment led to permanent employment at the centre in February 2026 as a receptionist and tech officer.

“Being a Tourism Ambassador opened doors I never imagined. The programme gave me a platform to serve, learn and grow," she says.

A first opportunity becomes a career

Nobuhle Thembani (36) joined the programme in October 2023 after studying library and information studies, generic management and tourism.

Initially placed in the Newtown Precinct, she was transferred to Garden Court in October 2025. Her dedication and strong work ethic resulted in permanent employment by December 2025.

“One door opening leads to many more doors and opportunities," she says.

Her experience demonstrates how workplace exposure can help young people turn existing qualifications and interests into meaningful employment.

Embracing new opportunities

For Ncebakazi Mohapi (30), the programme provided an opportunity to enter the hospitality industry after financial barriers prevented her from studying beyond matric.

Originally from Virginia in the Free State, she joined the programme in October 2025 and was placed at Sandton Sun and Towers. Less than five months later, on 1 March 2026, she secured permanent employment as a waitress.

“I feel so overjoyed about the journey I am on because it is giving me direction," she says.

As Johannesburg continues to position tourism as a driver of inclusive growth, the Joburg Tourism and Hospitality Vocational Training Programme remains an important pathway for young people to enter the workplace and contribute to the city's economy.

21/09/2026

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