STC International is committed to excellent training and education in the logistics and maritime industry worldwide. This is a necessity in a sector where the demand for competent and well-trained staff is constantly increasing. Our expert Patrick Kleinbooi, General Manager STC South Africa, trains previously disadvantaged individuals for jobs in the maritime and logistics sector. He shares his story of the positive impact they are making every day.
Provide a sustainable career
Patrick has worked on several projects since starting at STC-SA. He is most proud of the positive impact that he – together with his colleagues – is making in the lives of the South African people. “We don’t want to be just a training entity that trains people for the sake of training. We want to provide training that enables people to truly change their lives”, said Patrick. “That is what STC stands for. Creating opportunities for our candidates in Southern Africa. Helping them provide a sustainable income to support their families and put food on the table” he continues.
Turn words into action
Patrick shares an inspiring story about one of their trainees: Isaac . “One of our lecturers came across Isaac. He was an orphan living under a bridge in Cape Town. Isaac was connected with several organizations that helped him with shelter and drug rehabilitation. With the help of funding, he was able to – after only six months – take a course at STC. “We supported him with all course requirements for MSC cruises. They were recruiting about 300 young South Africans at that time to work as galley hands on their cruise ships. We arranged an interview for him, he was hired and still works on the cruises today” said Patrick proudly. “Isaac is one of many highlights of our work and also the real-life example of what makes our work so important and rewarding.”
For the people and the industry
“Besides the big difference we can make in a person’s life, we also look at how we can support the sector’s demand. We train industry-driven” said Patrick. “We don’t want a hundred engineers without that demand from the industry. If there is a need for a cook, bartender, security guard or hostess, then we will train for these positions.” It’s a win-win situation for both the local people, and the industry in – and beyond – South Africa. Were you inspired by this story and would you like to learn more about our projects? Feel free to contact us for more information.