“This amazing initiative was created by one of our own, our HR Manager for the Group Alarece Eaton, through Eaton Consulting Services,” says The MediaShop’s Group MD Chris Botha. “Empowering young women and giving them an opportunity to live their life to the full is one of Alarece’s and our passions,” he says.

“We’re pleased to have a part in improving these young ladies journeys while strengthening our industry at the same time,” says Botha.

Eaton has an extensive background in human resources and leadership development and has always had the desire to help shape and transform the lives of young women. The Ciao Bella initiative is targeted at girls currently in grade 12 aged between 15 and 18 years. “We will be empowering 15 young girls per annum,” says Eaton. “Through this initiative and the process of transformation, we will be improving their lives and raising their own life expectations.”

Part of the Ciao Bella Initiative is to create a 13 episode reality television show that will focus on the development and growth of the women through their journey. It will showcase the media industry and the process of building young media moguls. Each year a new batch of 15 young girls will be given the opportunity to enter the programme.

“We’re so grateful to The MediaShop for committing to finance the advertising and administration of this project which is at such a crucial infancy stage. We’re also appealing to media owners and corporate to offer assistance where ever they can,” says Eaton.

Partners already on board include Legaci Nova Entertainment, with vast experience in the entertainment industry, Frank Tilley Consulting and iLearn for presentation and Life Skills training, SureGrowth who complete assessments and Starfish as Ciao Bella’s chosen charity.

“We have a carefully drafted curriculum that will focus on holistic learning by improving the mind and body of these young women,” she says. “Although Media skills will be the main focus of education, we will also focus on areas such as finance both for business and personal, general life skills, self-esteem, building confidence, presentation skills, health and wellness, mentoring, communication, hygiene and etiquette as well as many other areas. The character and attitudes of these young girls will be put to the test and refined, giving them the ability to deal with life’s challenges and successes.”

“We look forward to these women adding their talents and fresh ideas to an already amazing and innovative industry,” concludes Botha.

For more information on the Ciao Bella Initiative or to get involved, email [email protected]

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