They form part of the second phase of the initiative, where 10 non-profit organisations (NPOs) from around the country were asked to state the skills they would need to assist them in becoming sustainable. A nationwide call was then issued for professional South Africans, who met these requirements, to apply to volunteer their time and skills for the period of one year.
By the closing date, over 580 entries had been received and so began the task of selecting the top 10 volunteers. "It wasn't an easy undertaking," says Mthobi Tyamzashe, Vodacom CSI executive director. "The calibre of entries was high and many skilled professionals applied. However, we believe that our dedicated panel of judges did a great job at matching the right volunteers to the right host organisations based on interests, skills, experience and, personality."
Volunteers, hosts in skills transfer
"The group launched the initiative to promote a spirit of volunteerism in this country," continues Tyamzashe. "Although many South Africans have the willingness to offer their skills to improve the lives of those around them, not everyone has the means. Through this programme, the volunteers can offer both their time and skills, at no cost to themselves or the NPOs, as the group will cover their living expenses and donate funds to the organisations.
"Moreover, the initiative aims at encouraging the transfer of skills. Although NPOs rely heavily on traditional cash donations, the lack of skills remains a problem. Thus, during their time at their host organisations, the volunteers will not only have the opportunity to make an immediate difference in people's lives, but they will also be able to impart their knowledge, skills and experience, allowing the NPOs to benefit from them for many years to come."
"We have seen how successful our 2011 volunteers have been and how many thousands of lives they have changed through this initiative. We know that thousands more will now benefit from our 2012 volunteers and we wish them everything of the best in achieving their admirable goals," Tyamzashe concludes.
