The fastest growing young professional supply chain community in the world, SCNext, is partnering with SAPICS, South Africa’s leading community of supply chain and operations management professionals, to see the local chapter of the body launched in the country South Africa. Created by and for young professionals, SCNext will help recruit and equip students for the working world.

Ayanda Khumalo, SCNext South Africa’s President, says, “It is all about bridging the gap between what students learn in theory and the reality of the world of work, helping them to make a smooth transition. But, in order to be a success, SCNext will rely heavily on experienced supply chain professionals and SAPICS members, whom we call upon to give of their time to mentor supply chain students and young professionals.”

Raising awareness, campus to career transition

Based at SAPICS head office, SCNext will establish student societies at campuses across the country, organising both formal and informal gatherings where SAPICS mentors will address students on a variety of topics, from finding a job to guiding them in their career path.

“Members will also be exposed to what’s happening internationally as SCNext chapters in other countries host various events aimed at young professionals.”

One such event will be the SAPICS SCNext student conference, to be held in March 2015 in Johannesburg, with smaller gatherings in Durban and Cape Town. The conference will create an opportunity for raising awareness about the career paths available in supply chain and operations management as company representatives meet face-to-face with students.

“There is a burgeoning community of young supply chain talent that needs to be nurtured and developed in order to help build the SCM future of the country.”

“SAPICS seems a natural fit with SCNext in achieving this goal as the youth organisation brings its expertise and resources from around the globe. These include competitions, career services, certifications, simulations, foreign exchange opportunities, start-up capital and more, all aimed towards advancement of the YP community. “

Getting involved

In addition to the student members, SCNext will also welcome Young Professionals.

“These are the young guns of supply chain- working professionals whose experience ranges from recent graduates to 10 years in the field. We look forward to their contribution through ideas and actions to fulfilling the SCNext vision.”

“Last, but not least, we extend a special request for experienced mentors who will guide the next generation of leaders in supply chain. These are veterans in the industry with 10-15 years experience dealing with complex global supply chains, as well as scholars from leading universities who will keep members abreast of cutting edge research and technologies.”

Concluding, “There is an enormous need to nurture the talent in South Africa and encourage young professionals to remain patriotic to the country and continent. And for this important task we call on experienced SCM mentors to come forward.”