Al Baraka Bank Strengthens Youth Empowerment through Annual Career Day

Ixopo, KwaZulu-Natal – 2 August 2025 

Al Baraka Bank, in partnership with Durban University of Technology (DUT) and community NPO Bringer of Light, successfully hosted its annual Career Day in Ixopo, reaffirming its commitment to empowering young people from across KwaZulu-Natal. 

The 2025 Career Day reached more than 200 high school learners from outlying areas, offering them valuable exposure to career options, financial literacy skills, and mentorship opportunities. 

Al Baraka Bank contributed over R40,000 towards the day, covering transport, meals and event resources to ensure every learner could participate fully. The bank’s staff also facilitated engaging sessions, giving learners practical guidance on financial literacy and future career possibilities within and beyond the banking sector. 

“Our goal is to ensure that learners from under-resourced communities are not left behind. By making career guidance and financial education accessible, we can empower young people to plan for brighter, more informed futures,” said Nasir Seedat, General Manager of Retail, Wealth and Marketing at Al Baraka Bank. 

The success of the day was made possible through collaboration. DUT provided academic insights, Bringer of Light mobilised local schools, and local businesses stepped forward to support the learners. Notably, Noodle King hosted a live meal station at no cost, while Al Baraka Bank provided takeaway packs from Pedros Ixopo, reflecting the strength of community partnerships in driving youth development. 

“The Ixopo Career Day shows the power of working together — business, education and community all playing a role in shaping future leaders,” added Ahmed Murchie, Business Banker at Al Baraka Bank. 

Looking ahead, Al Baraka Bank intends to expand this initiative to reach more schools in outlying communities, while continuing to roll out mentorship programmes, financial literacy workshops and digital learning tools as part of its broader youth development strategy. 

Al Baraka Bank remains deeply committed to ethical and socially responsible finance, with youth empowerment forming a cornerstone of its corporate social responsibility agenda.