Empowering African female youth and differently-abled individuals with essential skills and experience to facilitate their entry into the engineering sector.
Rebranded Keystone Project Recruitment (KPR) launched the Keystone Female Youth Academy Funding NPC (KFYDF) in 2016 with a mission to enhance diversity and inclusion in engineering industries by providing educational and training opportunities to youth. Rebranded as Keystone Youth Academy (KYA), this Not-for-Profit Company now focuses on empowering African female youth and differently-abled individuals. By equipping them with essential skills and experience, KYA aims to facilitate their entry into the engineering sector. Our objective is to make a lasting positive impact on the future of engineering.
Our comprehensive approach includes accredited technical modules along with training in business communication, computer literacy, self-awareness, and leadership.
Technical Skills Development
Accredited technical modules designed to prepare youth for entry into the engineering sector with practical, hands-on experience.
KYA actively engages with communities through various outreach programs and partnerships.
Vosloorus Comprehensive High School
We had four impactful training sessions focused on 'Getting to know my self' which covers Learning Behind the Learning and Moods and Emotions, Listening and new understanding of Language. These sessions, expertly led by Alf, provided valuable coaching to the teachers.
Unity Secondary School
We were delighted to participate in Career Day at Unity Secondary School, where we had the opportunity to engage with students and share insights into various career paths. The event provided a platform for meaningful interactions, allowing us to inspire and guide the next generation as they explore their future possibilities.
Vosloorus Parish Men's Guild Conference
The experience was truly enriching, as they engaged enthusiastically with the content 'Learning behind the learning', gaining valuable insights to enhance their self awareness. It was a wonderful experience that reinforced the importance of regenerative learning and open mindset.
SUCCESS STORIES
“KPR did not just provide funding; they ensured that I received both theoretical and practical knowledge. My journey included internships at a Materials Handling Company in 2017 and a Fabrication Company in 2018 as a Boiler Maker apprentice.
This hands-on experience taught me to respect the hard work involved in engineering support functions. In 2019, I interned at an Engineering Consultancy, where I learned to produce essential engineering documents and even visited a gold
mine. These experiences proved invaluable when I had to design an extractor for my final year project. Thanks to the support and mentorship from KPR, I am now a Management Trainee at a Beverage Company, a position I initially felt
underqualified for but secured due to my problem-solving abilities.”
- Mkateko Chauke
“When I started with what was then KYA CAD in 2021, I had no
idea how much it would shape my future and teach me the
importance of perseverance. Thanks to KPR and KYA, I obtained an
MDDOP qualification from the African Academy. I was also
fortunate to continue my studies in Structural Steel Detailing while
being employed as an intern at one of their sister companies. I am
forever grateful for how these experiences have transformed my
life.”
- Ida Bopape
“My Journey with KPR started back in 2019, right after matric. I received a bursary to study
Computer Aided Drawing (NQF 4) at KYA. After completion KPR continued to support my
studies as I later enrolled for Structural Steel Detailing (NQF 5) at African Academy in 2022.
KPR did not only provide financial support but also played a big role in guiding me to become a
successful young woman in the Engineering industry. I attended many workshops that helped
me prepare myself for the challenging, fast paced and ever evolving industry. Through KPR I
received an internship at one of the world's leading Oil and Gas companies Wood PLC, where I
gained so much experience from Engineers and Designers all over the world. I have since been
fulfilling my role at Wood as a Junior Civil Designer. All this would not be possible without the
help of my KPR family. I cannot thank KPR enough for giving me this opportunity to fulfil my
dream. Enkosi KPR!”
- Zandile Qulu
"My journey began as a CAD Facilitator at KYA, where I spent two years. KYA
played a pivotal role in my life, particularly in providing financial support that
enabled me to complete my degree at TUT. With the backing of KYA and KPR, I
advanced my career from a Draughtsman at Worley to a Structural Engineer at L&S
Consulting. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an
impactful institution and to have contributed to shaping my future. The experiences
and memories from my time at KYA will stay with me forever."
- Ernest Mogopodi
“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the bursary you awarded me.
Your support has meant so much to me and has helped me overcome financial hardship and achieve my academic goals providing me with a sense of relief and allowing me to focus on my studies.
I'm grateful for your trust and confidence in me
and I'm committed to making you proud. Thank you again for your generosity and support.”
- Thembelihle Sangweni
“As a proud student at African Academy, I introduce myself to the world as Clerrissa Govender.
My journey started in 2023 when I did the Multi-Disciplinary Drawing
Office Practice Course N4/N5 with no Engineering Drawing
experience at all. I attended on Saturdays as well to do the bridging
course while attending the main course during the week. I dedicated
myself to learning everyday and made sure to give it my all. One of
my biggest challenges was having the confidence to do this. Being
the shy girl that I was before, a special lady once told me that it was
time to get out of my shell and flourish. Once I completed the
course, I furthered my studies into Structural Steel Detailing, where
this incredible organisation KYA, discovered my potential and
provided support to assist me to complete this course. They’ve
made my learning journey very easy which I’m truly grateful for. This
life changing experience only comes once in your life so I cherished
it with all my heart. Thank you once again to the team of KYA for
making this possible.
Today I am a Junior Draughtsperson at ACO Systems South Africa,
completing my Diploma and looking to enter Civil Engineering next
year. By God’s grace I shall continue to grow and shine my light
wherever I go. I hope this will encourage every young girl to believe
in themselves and go after their dreams no matter the
circumstances that life puts you in.
Always be yourself.”
- Clerrissa Govender
“Dear Keystone Youth Academy,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the support you provided me during my studies. Your sponsorship played a vital role in helping me achieve my certificate in the Multi-Disciplinary Drawing Office Practice Course, and I want to take this opportunity to share where that journey has led me.
Completing this course was a major milestone for me, and I am proud to share that I am now working at The Project Company as a Draughtsperson. Every day, I have the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge I gained during my studies, and I am constantly reminded of how your support helped make this possible.
Looking back, I realise that your support was much more than financial assistance — it was a vote of confidence in my potential. It reminded me that with determination and the right encouragement, great things are possible. I carry that motivation with me every day as I continue to grow, learn, and make a difference.
Thank you once again for believing in me and for being part of my journey. I am truly grateful for your generosity and the opportunities it has created in my life.
With sincere appreciation,
Lesedi Marothi”
- Lesedi Marothi
PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Our blend of professionalism and personal engagement has fostered long-term relationships with both clients and candidates, earning their trust and frequent referrals. By partnering with KYA, you can gain substantial benefits, including earning points on the Skills Development Scorecard.
SETA Facing
KYA is dedicated to enhancing technical competence and employability through comprehensive formal training and certification.
Corporate Social Investment
As a not-for-profit company, KYA appreciates financial support to develop and expand programs for deserving young people.
Employment Equity
KYA's mission is to empower talent from designated groups for the Construction and Built Environment industry.
