Youth and Social Development

Enterprise development

We run the Street Business School training programme, developed in the USA, in over five provinces. The eight modules run over eight weeks with coaching and site visits from experienced facilitators. It motivates young entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and become financially independent. Four donors support this work and we have trained and coached 860 young people, mostly women, to build their own sustainable businesses.

Public employment programmes

Lima has a long history as a government implementing agent for youth employment projects.

We are a Strategic Implementing Partner (SIP) for the Social Employment Fund, managed by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). Participants are paid for a set number of hours each week doing work for the common good, which also encourages other income and business activity. Lima focuses on Community Health, Food Security and Nutrition, and Enterprise Development and Training.

The work gives people income and experience. It builds accountability, time management, teamwork and practical skills that help them find jobs or start their own businesses.

From community gardens growing fresh produce to support groups caring for vulnerable households, the programme builds resilience that lasts. It also supports mothers and clinics on the Road to Health growth monitoring programme, and works with ECD centres, schools and food gardens.