Floors High alumni inspire pupils through career talks

ALUMNI of Floors High School recently offered career advice and motivational talks to Grade 9 and 11 pupils.

Former pupil Shahied Joseph said that he and Andre Damons, who both matriculated from the school in 1995, spoke about their careers in journalism and civil engineering as part of a mentorship initiative aimed at encouraging the youth.

“We were inspired by TED Talks and dubbed our initiative FloorsTalks. We did not have access to career guidance growing up, and we decided to empower the current generation,” Joseph said.

“The interaction from the learners was just what we wanted; it is clear they are hungry for guidance. The pupils were interested in architecture, forensic accounting, and one pupil said he wanted to become a rapper.”

Joseph invited other alumni from the school to share their career stories.

"Florians from all eras are welcome to contact us if they are interested in mentoring these youths.”

He added that the alumni also held a braai to raise funds to purchase stationery for pupils most in need.

Damons said they hoped to make FloorsTalks an annual event.

“I am fully committed to this remarkable initiative. As alumni, we have a responsibility to reinvest our knowledge and experience into the school. By doing so, we can empower pupils from the school to make informed career choices early on in their high school journey.”

Floors High School principal Roy Fredericks expressed his delight at seeing his former pupils return to plough back their knowledge.

“I taught these boys back in the ’90s, and it’s really good to see them coming back and wanting to make a difference. I hope that this inspires former pupils to do the same.

“I am delighted with this initiative. Another former scholar who wishes to remain anonymous bought stationery for 127 matric students who are writing their final exams. To say I am happy is an understatement, the Class of ’95 is proof that we have done something right,"  Fredericks said.

Anyone interested in FloorsTalks can contact Shahied Joseph at 071 262 2659 or Andre Damons at 082 828 8488.