14 years of continuous operation and industry-leading retail training.
Who We Are
RelatED Education is dedicated to creating an employable, skilled, and empowered workforce in the retail sector. Through targeted skills development programmes, we directly address the critical industry gaps that prevent talented South Africans from reaching their full potential in the workplace.
Our programmes are designed in collaboration with leading retailers and industry bodies, ensuring that every qualification and short course we deliver is relevant, practical, and immediately applicable on the shop floor and in the corporate office alike.
Our Story
Our journey began when founder Leigh Blochlinger identified critical skills shortages across the South African retail landscape. Recognising that untapped talent was being held back by a lack of structured training and mentorship, Leigh set out to change the narrative — starting with youth upskilling initiatives that placed young South Africans on a pathway to sustainable employment.
What began as a focused youth empowerment effort quickly evolved into Retail Relate, which grew to become one of South Africa's largest and most respected retail training providers. The organisation expanded its reach across all nine provinces, bringing world-class skills development to urban centres, rural towns, and remote communities alike.
In 2018, the organisation rebranded to RelatED Education — a name that reflects a deeper commitment to future-focused skills development and the broadening of our service offering beyond retail into various industries. The rebrand marked not an end, but an evolution: a renewed promise to educate, relate, and transform lives across South Africa.
Key Achievements
Over a decade of measurable impact across South Africa's retail sector.
Trained learners across all 9 South African provinces, delivering nationwide impact.
Reached urban, rural, and remote communities, breaking barriers to skills access.
Comprehensive services spanning advertising, recruitment, onboarding, mentoring, and coaching.
Our Valued Partners
We are proud to work alongside South Africa's leading retail brands.
Meet the Team
Behind every successful learner is a dynamic and passionate team boasting over 100 years of combined retail and educational experience. Our facilitators, coaches, and support staff bring real-world knowledge into every classroom, workshop, and mentoring session.
Together, our team has coached, mentored, and transformed the lives of many South Africans — helping individuals unlock their potential, secure meaningful employment, and build lasting careers in the retail industry and beyond.
This depth of experience, combined with genuine passion for people development, is what sets RelatED Education apart. We do not simply train; we invest in the future of every learner who walks through our doors.
Accreditations & Partnerships
Our programmes are fully accredited and endorsed by South Africa's leading quality assurance bodies and international partners.
Wholesale & Retail SETA
QCTO
APMG International