seekers during the EmpowerU Career Expo
On 3 September 2026, Claremont Civic Hall buzzed with energy as local youth, job seekers and industry leaders gathered for the annual EmpowerU Career Expo 2026. Organised by Life Changers in collaboration with Claremont Library and various career partners, the event served as a dynamic platform for career exploration, skills development and lifelong learning.
Through an established partnership with Life Changers, Claremont Librarian Phindiwe Gana, successfully facilitated Claremont Library’s active participation, securing a prime exhibition space to showcase how municipal library services directly support educational and career advancement.
The hall brought together a diverse range of educational institutions, training providers, employers and community organisations. Attendees engaged directly with exhibitors to explore study pathways, ask targeted questions, and access crucial job-seeking resources. Phindiwe later took to the stage to address attendees on behalf of the Library and Information Services. Her presentation highlighted:
- Career Pathways: Opportunities and study trajectories within the library and information profession.
- Youth & Student Services: Specialised library programmes designed for digital literacy, academic support and career development.
- Job-Seeking Tools: Free access to public computers, e-resources, and research tools that assist job seekers in navigating the employment landscape.
A major highlight of the day was an inspiring address by Wendy Kaizer-Philander, Minister of Social Development, who motivated attendees to pursue their ambitions with resilience. The Claremont Library team had the opportunity to meet with the Minister to discuss community-focused programmes and capture commemorative photos.
Throughout the event, the library team actively networked with a broad spectrum of participating organisations including UWC, AFDA, TSIBA, Harambee, Standard Bank, Golden Arrow Bus Service, Vulamathuba Empumelelo, New Day United and Living Hope laying the groundwork for future collaborative community programmes.
The EmpowerU Career Expo reinforced the evolving role of modern libraries as vital hubs for social and economic development. By connecting residents with industry leaders and educational resources, Claremont Library continues to demonstrate that our facilities are not just quiet spaces for books, but active launchpads for community empowerment.
By Phindiwe Gana
Librarian
Claremont Library