The Peace Foundation is a non-profit organisation, which aims to alleviate rural poverty through sustainable and self-sufficient local economic development. Established in 1993, it is run on a co-operative model, with centres or hubs created within rural communities, in order to achieve meaningful economic empowerment and skills transfer.
Upliftment programmes undertaken include farming initiatives, pre-schools, bulk buying and product distribution, skills training with sewing co-operatives, crafters projects and bakery and a skills training academy for plumbing, electrical, welding, brick making and brick laying. In addition, the foundation introduces rural waste management initiatives and aims to improve water and sanitation as part of its focus on preserving the natural environment.
"We are delighted to partner with this NGO, which is a broad-based black ownership trust with 100% black beneficiaries, of which 80% are women. As shareholders, the Foundation will not only benefit both from its investment but also in its association with JHI," says Marna van der Walt, CEO of JHI Properties.
In addition to various CSI projects undertaken on an ongoing basis by the company, other initiatives include a practical, three-month training and mentorship programme conducted for employees in the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development.
For three consecutive days a week, four staff members from this department were seconded for practical, practical on-site training and mentorship and theoretical learning at the company's head office in Sandton, Johannesburg.
Fatima Essa, JHI Properties executive: public sector comments, "Underlining the potential for successful private/public partnerships, this programme enabled the company to provide the department's staff with specialised knowledge and access to valuable experience and expertise across a broad spectrum.
"This incorporated property management; retail management and consulting; drafting of leases; facilities management (including supply chain procurement); public sector, development and project management; market research, analysis and strategic planning and tenant and corporate representation.
"In addition to being exposed to the business on a practical, daily basis, the interns attended workshops where they gained theoretical knowledge on various aspects of property management, and were assisted with coaching, self-development and research in order that each gained maximum personal benefit from both a practical and theoretical perspective," she concludes.
