Making a difference where it counts
We apply our long-term strategic business approach to our corporate social responsibility initiatives. Nurturing the youngest members of our communities has a lasting impact and therefore our main priority is the youth. Education and skills development are important for the children in our communities to be successful in life. We work towards equipping learners with leadership and entrepreneurial skills, as well as providing exposure to the fishing industry.
- Teaching materials
- School necessities
- Financial support
- Skills development
- Training
- Digital literacy
Not forgetting basic necessities
School bags, socks and shoes are necessities for learners to attend school. Donations are made to primary schools and high schools in the vicinity of our operations plant in St Helena Bay every year. In the picture learners from Masiphatisane Primary School show their bags and shoes.
Bags of oranges were handed out to 1 800 learners as part of a vitamin C boost drive. Each learner of the primary schools HP Williams (in picture), Steenberg’s Cove and EJ Malgarte received a bag.
Exposure to the fish industry
Pioneer Fishing West Coast sponsored ten unemployed youth with transport and meals to attend free training at the Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centre at Gariep Dam, offered by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (now the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries) for eight days.
The training involved a high level of theory and practical work, which included cleaning of the ponds, water temperature monitoring, breeding and feeding.
The entire experience was mind-blowing. Never before did I imagine that there's a whole new world out. Fish farming is the future that will help deal with issues of food security and more.Ms Celestine Alkasterparticipant in aquafarming training
DIY entrepreneurial skills
Against the reality of the high unemployment rate, we sponsored the performance of the DIY (Do It Yourself) theatre show at local high schools to make learners aware of additional options after completing school. The show was aimed at creating enthusiasm about entrepreneurship. In the production, the actors share basic skills to start a business, from asking the right questions and getting an idea off the ground to developing a business plan.
Learning through stories
Theatrical performances are a valuable tool in conveying insight in a relaxed environment. We’ve used industrial theatre in the past to highlight social challenges and responsibility, like sexual harassment, substance abuse and personal hygiene.
