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A Vision of Success: From Informal Labor Experience to Professional Insertion 

Mozambique
Upskilling and Reskilling, Labour market insertion
19.03.2025
At just 22, Norberto Manuel da Costa Fortes turned his dream of securing formal employment into reality. Through quality training and hands-on experience, he reshaped his career path, unlocking new opportunities for his future.

Born in August 2003 in Matola C, Maputo province, Norberto now works at Topack Mozambique in the Chamanculo district of Maputo city. His daily 26-kilometre commute by public transport reflects his unwavering determination and commitment to his professional journey

Norberto’s journey began at the age of 13 when he started working with a friend in his community as a locksmith. Over time, he developed a deep interest and growing skillset in the trade, eventually earning some income for his work. However, he soon faced technical challenges that limited his growth. This motivated him to seek formal training to strengthen his knowledge and gain a recognized certification - a crucial step toward securing formal employment and standing out as a qualified professional.

In mid-2023, Norberto enrolled at the Salesianos Vocational Training Centre in Matola, a key partner in Swisscontact’s Skills to Build project. There, he completed his training in civil locksmithing, equipping himself with the technical skills and confidence needed to excel in his field.

"During the training, I seized every learning opportunity. The support from experienced trainers was essential in building my professional capabilities."
Norberto Manuel da Costa Fortes
Norberto measures and assembles metal components, showcasing the technical expertise gained through Swisscontact's Skills to Build project.

From Internship to Employment

Norberto’s journey didn’t stop with training. In July 2024, he secured an internship at Topack Mozambique through the Skills to Build project. Over the three-month period, he applied his newly acquired skills and adapted to the structured work environment of a formal company.

"I learned new locksmithing techniques, improved my teamwork and coordination skills, and gained basic knowledge of maintenance mechanics."
Norberto Manuel da Costa Fortes at work in the Topack Mozambique workshop, applying his locksmithing skills with precision and focus

The internship was a game-changer. Not only did it allow Norberto to showcase his skills, but it also increased his visibility within the company, opening doors to new opportunities. At the end of his internship, Norberto’s dedication and performance earned him a permanent position at Topack Mozambique.

"I'm proud to be part of this company. My work contributes to the production process by manufacturing machine parts, conventional structures, and other essential components."

A Vision for the Future

Norberto’s ambition extends beyond his current role. He plans to continue his studies in industrial mechanics and encourages other young people to pursue vocational training as a path to personal and professional growth.

"Vocational training provides solid knowledge and opens doors to the job market. It strengthens individual skills while fostering personal growth and contributing to community development,"
he emphasized.

Empowering Futures Through Partnerships

Norberto’s story is one of many inspiring transformations made possible through Swisscontact’s Skills to Build project, supported by the Medicor Foundation, Happel Foundation, and Linsi Foundation. The programme is co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), ensuring that countless more young people like Norberto have the opportunity to build brighter futures.

2024 - 2028
Mozambique
Upskilling and Reskilling, Labour market insertion
Skills to Build
In close collaboration with the private sector, the project aims to improve the quality of life of vulnerable young people through professional training in the construction and other sectors. By implementing competence-based skills training and certification in public and private training centres, it will increase incomes and employment opportunities for 3 000 vulnerable young people and 50 already employed, low-skilled workers and workshop owners.
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