Joburg 12 August, 2011
Not much progress is being made to advance women in the business sector said President Jacob Zuma in his Woman’s Day address recently. “2011 is the year of economic transformation and job creation. Government wants to see a visible change for women from all walks of life,” he said.
Quick off the mark was a bursary competition arranged by the DJ Fresh Foundation in association with Boston City Campus who are awarding an astonishing quarter of a million rands worth of bursaries earmarked for the development of 25 deserving women. .
“Education is key in achieving true economic emancipation,” says Boston past student and well known broadcaster, DJ Fresh who heads up the DJ Fresh Foundation. “Advancement in the workplace will hopefully be achieved if women, particularly from the poorer communities, have the means to improve their prospects. It is a privilege for us to be able to step in and change the lives of 25 women.”
To enter the competition, female students need to send in a 150 word motivation of why they deserve the bursary to study the Boston City Campus Course of your choice. The range of courses can be viewed at www.boston.co.za, email fresh@boston.co.za or fax 086 631 1100. The competition closes on Friday 26 August 2011 at 12h00
“A busary can be the turning point in the life of an ambitious student” says Kerry Damons, marketing manager at Boston City Campus. “However we also give careful consideration to the specific qualification to choose. It should always be based on where your passions and interests lie.. This is much more likely to lead to success than a decision based on what your friends or parents advise.”
Research shows that people will have three to eight different careers and up to 25 different jobs in their work lifetime. Interestingly, 75% of the jobs that exist now, were not around ten years ago, so the chances of finding something interesting are greater than ever before. Technological advancement has opened up careers in marketing, publishing, web design, even IT consulting. Since women often have to care for extended families and work at the same time, a career that allows you to work part-time or work from home is a huge bonus.
“Women need to identify their interests, current skills, and workplace needs in order to make a good career match.. This is where professional career counselling comes in which is a focus of Botson counsellors. Making the right decision will pay dividends for a fulfilling and rewarding career later on,” she says.
Money is always a touchy subject, as many people regard job satisfaction as most important. But the earning capacity of the career should be taken into consideration. If you are a single woman, could it support a family further down the line?
There are other aspects to think about. What if the ideal job is not found, or you are retrenched, will your qualification enable you to work from home? Think laterally. Teachers can teach privately. Secretarial services are always in demand as are social media skills. Hotel and catering graduates can start a catering business. Perhaps you have an entrepreneurial flair and can start your own business. The opportunities are endless.
Some people thrive under pressure whilst others prefer to operate with fewer demands. Are you a nine-to-five person or someone who isn’t bothered about working long hours even if they extend into the weekends? Is your qualification recognized internationally? You never know when you may want to work overseas.
According to Fresh, “status and recognition may turn you on, and that is good! Add it to your list of required career aspects because if you are motivated you are more likely to be successful. If you are passionate about what you do, you stand a better chance of succeeding. Loving my job and loving the interaction with the community has enabled me to be a success. I want to pass on that passion. Together with Boston, I want to be able to change the lives of 25 women.”.
“Our philosophy at Boston has always been to research all the options with our students as this contributes to improved motivation and job satisfaction. Come in and try out our free Computerised Career Compass Assessments that highlight interests, talents and skills to assist in making informed career choices. These are available at any branch around the country without obligation to register with Boston City Campus.” she says.
Students that apply for admission at Boston City Campus & Business College will get a response to their applications within two working days. And those that apply long in advance for their 2016 studie…
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