Rocky Peak Spur in Alberton is not just serving meals, it’s serving up opportunities—offering special needs learners the chance to gain valuable job experience and life skills, proving that inclusivity isn’t just a goal, it’s a commitment.
Johannesburg, South Africa (08 October) – It’s often said that society’s true strength lies in how it treats those who are the most vulnerable. Mahatma Gandhi once reflected on this idea, reminding us that “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” It’s not just a matter of philosophy but a call to action for communities and businesses alike to make a real difference where it counts most. For individuals with special needs, opportunities for personal and professional growth are not always readily available. Yet, these individuals deserve the chance to thrive, just like everyone else.
Enter Optim-Ed Learning Centre, a place of opportunity nestled in the heart of Alberton, South Africa.
Optim-Ed is not just a school but a place where children and young adults with special needs are equipped with skills to navigate life beyond the classroom. Through dedicated teaching and specialised programs, Optim-Ed works tirelessly to ensure that every learner reaches their full potential. But sometimes, that potential needs a little help from the community to truly flourish.
This is where Rocky Peak Spur in Brackenhurst, Alberton, stepped up in the most remarkable way. Recognising the importance of job experience for the older learners at Optim-Ed, Rocky Peak Spur has opened its doors to give them a valuable opportunity to learn, grow, and gain confidence in the workplace.
Bonny Botha, co-owner and principal of Optim-Ed Learning Centre, reached out to share this heartwarming story with Good Things Guy, who is eager to express her gratitude.
“I just want to give a huge shout-out to Rocky Peak Spur in Brackenhurst Alberton,” she said.
“We are a special needs school, and we try to give our older learners job experience and teach them important life skills. As you can imagine, approaching companies to accommodate our learners is a huge task, and they often are not keen. Rocky Peak Spur has allowed our learners the opportunity to job shadow at their restaurant every Friday morning. They even went as far as to make them shirts so that they feel part of the team. This is true inclusivity, and I feel that they need all the praise and attention they can get.”
It’s not just about the opportunity to job shadow but how Rocky Peak Spur has embraced these young adults as part of its team. The learners don’t just walk into a restaurant—they walk into a community that values and supports them.
This act of kindness from Rocky Peak Spur speaks volumes about the power of inclusivity and the willingness of businesses to play a positive role in the lives of those with special needs. It’s about more than just giving back—it’s about investing in a future where everyone has a chance to succeed, no matter their circumstances.
When communities come together, magic happens. Thank you, Rocky Peak Spur, for showing us all that when inclusivity is embraced, everyone wins!
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