Estimated to have the potential to contribute up to R177 billion to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2033 and create approximately 1 million jobs, the oceans economy is a key economic enabler of Cape Town and the Western Cape.
Playing their part in the oceans economy value chain and positively contributing to skills development and upliftment is Cape Fish (Pty) Ltd, situated in Paarden Eiland. Employing over 30 employees, Cape Fish started out as a wholesaler in 2012 before deciding to open the small, yet stylish retail side of the business just over a year ago.
Empowering and upskilling staff who show interest and promise is key to Cape Fish’s employment strategy, an example of which is Chang Hubi who joined the team in September 2017. Having worked for minimum wage at a big supermarket, Hubi started out as a bakkie assistant at Cape Fish, helping with deliveries. Not even two years later, he is now Cape Fish’s Chief HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) Manager as well as manager of staff, production and orders. His salary has increased by 122% in the past three years.
“One of the Cape Fish owners, Kurt Hill, took me under his wing when I showed interest in wanting to know more about how fish is prepared for customers. He taught me how to grade the quality of tuna, as well as how to prepare, quantify and present orders to our customers. He also taught me how to professionally and efficiently communicate with customers, as well as imparted skills of how to build relationships in a professional environment,” comments Hubi.
After showing promise in his new role of preparing fish for orders and liaising with customers, Hill offered Hubi the opportunity to complete the HACCP Food Safety Risks Training course. This gives him the skills to utilise a highly regarded management system in which food safety is addressed and audited, and Hubi successfully passed the course to become a certified HACCP Manager for Cape Fish.
“Where I came from to where I am today is such a big difference. My growth at Cape Fish has enabled me to offer my family a better life,” concluded Hubi.
