Rita Becker

B360 Board Member

&

Shahieda Ohlson

Operations Manager Roche

Career Starter Week
TSIBA Business School, South Africa
June 20 - July 4, 2025

We had the privilege of participating in a student program facilitated by B360 at TSIBA Business School. As part of this initiative, we were tasked with facilitating a workshop focused on the Career Starter Program, which aims to equip young adults with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the transition into the professional world.

During the five-day workshop, we worked closely with a group of enthusiastic and diverse students. The sessions covered essential career readiness topics such as goal setting, communication skills, workplace etiquette, and personal branding. One of the most impactful elements of the experience was witnessing the transformation in the students’ attitudes and mindsets over such a short period. Their growing confidence and clarity about their career goals were both inspiring and deeply rewarding to observe.

Facilitating this program also came with its challenges. Engaging students with varied levels of experience and expectations required adaptability, patience, and a thoughtful approach. We also experienced severe weather conditions, where students were logistically challenged to participate and despite tough circumstances, their dedication to the program was observed and was very admirable. However, these challenges were far outweighed by the satisfaction of connecting with the students and seeing tangible growth.

We are coming from different backgrounds, as a South African and Swiss partner, we were able to leverage ours skills and past experience to deliver a common objective. Sharing our own professional journey with the participants added a personal and authentic touch to the workshop. It was a meaningful experience to reflect on our own career paths and use those lessons to support and guide others as they begin theirs.

Overall, this opportunity was not only enriching for the students but also for us as a facilitators. It reinforced our belief in the power of mentorship and the importance of creating spaces for Young people to develop the tools they need to succeed.