Some partnerships begin with a kind response to an unexpected email, but then grow into something much bigger. Our relationship with Absolute Containers is one of those. When we decided to develop our first LaunchPad, we were determined to work with a South African company to build it, but struggled to find a partner with the construction expertise that shared our concern for local teens until Absolute Containers answered the call.
Since 2012, they have been alongside Infinite Family, building spaces where our teens can learn, connect, and grow. They built our very first LaunchPad container in 2012 in Alexandra, Johannesburg, followed by two more in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, and Mehlwana, Mpumalanga. Each recycled container computer lab gives young people access to learning, mentorship, and technology, helping our teens build skills in communication, education, career preparation, technology, and life skills. Absolute Containers understood the brief and made these safe study spaces real, treating every LaunchPad as a space with a purpose, not just another unit to deliver.
From the very start, they have been directly involved in every step of the journey: supporting troubleshooting with us at every stage, assisting us with the container shades and plinths, solving environmental wear-and-tear challenges, and bringing to life the architectural drawings that turned a steel box into a place we proudly call our LaunchPads. They even captured the process on film, so we could share the story as it unfolded. That kind of openness is rare, and we are grateful for it.
More recently, Absolute Containers showed us that their commitment goes far beyond containers and is about people too. When we approached them about one of our Net Blazers (an Infinite Family alumni) needing a placement for her 24-month in-service training in Electrical Engineering, they were unfazed and willing, saying yes quickly and warmly.
But they didn’t stop there. They asked for details on what they could do to help her succeed, both in the training itself and ensuring she was equipped to meet all the requirements to acquire her diploma. That level of care shows exactly the kind of partner they are – one who invests in the young person so they succeed, not to just tick the box for credit or accolades.
To everyone at Absolute Containers, THANK YOU for more than a decade of partnership, for the trust, patience and generosity, and for believing in the young people we serve. Your support helps us upskill and strengthen youth and teens across South Africa, and we are proud to call you part of our Infinite Family.