Forget rocking chairs and bingo nights, an organisation launched in the Helderberg isn’t your average retirement club!
The group is all about helping people rediscover their purpose and navigate the exciting “gift season” of life between age 50 and 75.
Lynda Smith, co-founder of 50plus Skills, knows this transition first-hand. Facing an empty nest and a career change at 50, she realised the baby-boomer generation wasn’t built to retire the way their parents were. Inspired, she set out to create a space where experienced individuals could “learn, serve and earn together”.
The recent launch event marks a new chapter for people over 50 in the Helderberg. With a focus on local communities, the organisation offers them paid memberships.
For a small annual fee, members gain access to regular meet-ups, online resources and networking opportunities. “It’s a place to belong, stay relevant, learn new skills and create purpose,” said Smith.
50plus Skills isn’t just about social gatherings. It sees the “gift season” as a prime time to contribute and share wisdom, bridging the gap that exists among experienced individuals, businesses and NPOs.
Its “Next Chapter” programme helps companies equip older employees for the changing workplace. It also offers peer-to-peer learning opportunities and an online learning academy.
The Helderberg launch is just the beginning. Smith, a seasoned community organiser, plans to roll-out the project to 10 new communities next year. 50plus Skills’ national identity remains strong, with each community catering for its own unique needs.
Expanding across South Africa comes with hurdles, but 50plus Skills has a secret weapon – its members.
“Many of our national members have been with us from day 1,” Smith said, adding that these members have passion, experience and are eager to share their knowledge.
The future looks bright for 50plus Skills. It aims to become a national force and even expand to other African countries.
Its vision? A South Africa where seasoned individuals can serve as mentors, coaches and active members of society.
Smith emphasised: “It’s not about retirement, it’s about working together. Always stronger together.”
50plus Skills has a message for business leaders and society as a whole: embrace the changing demographics.
Equipping older employees isn’t just good for them; it’s a gift to the community.
- For more information on 50plus Skills, visit https://50plus-skills.co.za/
