strengthening the local economy
We apply an integrated, multisector approach where Livelihoods is not a stand alone programme, but part of a broader ecosystem that connects skills development, entrepreneurship, and overall community well-being. At the centre of Rhiza’s Livelihoods strategy is our skills development venture, which equips young people with in-demand digital and technical capabilities while linking them directly to meaningful employment opportunities. At the same time, we empower both aspiring and established entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to build businesses that are economically sustainable and scalable.
Skills Development
We are committed to strengthening the local economy and fostering long-term sustainability by ensuring that communities benefit from practical training and employment opportunities- not just services. Our approach empowers individuals with relevant skills, connects them to meaningful economic pathways, and builds a foundation for independent, thriving communities.
We aim to reduce youth unemployment; boosting township economies and creating long‑term pathways to economic independence. The skills development programmes operate across all Rhiza entities, upskilling learners and offering unemployed youth aged 18 to 35 a comprehensive and grounded learning experience in various demand-driven industries.
Retail
Through our Township Fleva social enterprise, we are purpose-driven and are dedicated to upskilling youth and women in South Africa’s townships and creating sustainable employment opportunities. Rooted in community development and economic inclusion, we operate a Retail CMT (Cut, Make and Trim) manufacturing facility in Diepsloot, where unemployed youth and women are trained, mentored and integrated into formal retail value chains.
Agriculture
In our aim to tackle improved food security and economic participation, we develop under-resourced communities to utilise the land they live on. To us, agripreneurship is a series of training programmes that use active learning to engage trainees in discovering the profitability of farming.
Throughout the programmes, the focus remains firmly on practical knowledge, employability, and the establishment of profitable farming practices.
These pathways ensure that learners are not only equipped with agricultural skills, but empowered with the confidence, business insight, and real‑world experience needed to build sustainable livelihoods. By nurturing agripreneurs who can cultivate both the land and their own economic futures, we are strengthening communities from the ground up and contributing to a more food‑secure and economically resilient society.
Entrepreneurship
We offer entrepreneurs several services, such as assistance with incubation, developing a business plan, access to finance, office spaces, coaching from large corporations, masterclasses and access to networks to increase their turnover and profits. We provide open and safe workspaces for entrepreneurs. Our multi-dimensional model includes:
Training, Land Access, Mentorship and Market Connections, Food Security, Business Development
Cruyff Courts
Through our community development arm, we are an implementation and strategic partner of the Johan Cruyff Foundation in South Africa. Together, the organisations have collaborated to establish Cruyff Courts in underserved communities, creating safe and inclusive spaces where young people can participate in sport, develop life skills, and strengthen social cohesion. The partnership is rooted in a shared commitment to youth empowerment, community development, health, inclusion, and creating opportunities for children and young people in disadvantaged communities.