One of the biggest hurdles for young graduates entering the job market is the classic dilemma: “No work, no experience — no experience, no work.”
To break this cycle, we created the Hybrid Experiential Learning Program (HELP), a pioneering initiative designed to act as an incubator for young talent. Since its launch, we have onboarded approximately 60 interns in South Africa, providing them with real-world work experience, soft-skills development, and a clear path toward their future careers.
How HELP works in practice
HELP recruits students from diverse higher-education institutions and places them across various key departments, including HR, Marketing, and CAT.
A great example of this program in action is at GRS O&M, where we established a specialized internship track for electromechanical technicians. Interns work directly alongside qualified mentors, gaining hands-on field experience. Our ultimate goal is to absorb top talent into permanent roles, creating a strong talent pipeline and supporting long-term succession planning.
However, HELP’s reach extends far beyond technical roles. Across all business functions, from operations to corporate departments, the program is empowering young professionals to make a real impact. Shakira Smith, a marketing intern in our Communication and Marketing department, shares her journey:
“My placement at Gransolar through the HELP initiative has been such a wonderful opportunity for my career. As a marketing intern, collaborating with management provided me with incredible insight into strategic planning, key communication, and delivering results to executive standards. This experience has truly boosted my confidence, and I am so grateful to feel ready to add value to any marketing team. Thank you so much for such an invaluable time at Gransolar.”
By investing in fresh perspectives and empowering the next generation, programs like HELP prove that supporting young professionals is not just a social responsibility, it is the foundation of our company’s future growth.
