NEWS RELEASE                                                                                  12 NOVEMBER 2001 

YOUNG WOMEN FROM ATLANTIS GO ABROAD  

An au pair programme involving young people from Atlantis has commenced.  Dr Audrey van Zyl, Western Cape Minister of Constitutional Affairs and Information Technology together with Belgian organisations and authorities have embarked on an exchange and empowerment programme for young people from the Western Cape.   

The au pair programme is seen as ideal for young people who would not otherwise be exposed to these opportunities.  “!t is crucial that potential au pairs use this opportunity to acquaint themselves with their host country through learning its cultures and history”, said Dr Audrey van Zyl.  

South African, Kate Lovers, already in Belgium will be joined by three young women from Atlantis, namely Anthea de Waal, Karen Davis and Gillian Apollis. This programme, initiated by the Minister, is focused on young women from Atlantis.  This will give these women the opportunity to equip them with skills and experiences that would not otherwise be acquired.  

Their visit overseas will be for the duration of one year and it is hoped that they will be able to use the skills learnt in their place of employment in South Africa.

Dr Van Zyl said, “All South African au pairs who are in Belgium now or who will be going soon should at least obtain their driver’s licences as this would be part of their self-employment.” 

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