I am Paballo Mokhobo and my journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. But it is finally soaring to incredible heights.
After matriculating in 2021 in Welkom, Free State, I faced a daunting four years of unemployment, a period that tested my resolve to its core. University seemed like a distant dream, and the doors just wouldn’t open. But then, a powerful realisation hit me – sitting at home, waiting for acceptance letters, wasn’t going to change my destiny.
I was the only one who could ignite the spark of change, and it was going to take immense effort.
In April 2025, I registered for the Catering programme at Thabiso Skills Development Centre. This wasn’t just a course; it was a lifeline, a beacon of hope! Thabiso Skills Development Centre became my unwavering support system, providing every tool, every piece of equipment, and all the consumables needed to dive headfirst into practical training. Ntabiseng Taoana, my incredible facilitator, was hands-on, a true mentor who pushed me to excel in every single aspect of the course, both practically and theoretically. Her dedication was infectious, and I thrived under her guidance. I devoured knowledge, learning the intricate art of catering – from the perfect preparation of hot beverages to the masterful baking of cakes and biscuits, essential basic cooking skills, and the critical importance of kitchen hygiene. Every lesson was a revelation, building my confidence and honing my craft.
The Small, Medium, and Microenterprise training was a game-changer, equipping me with the vital skills to manage my own small business and transforming me into an entrepreneur. The Life Skills programme instilled in me an unshakeable resilience and a profound sense of self-acceptance. This entire period was an exhilarating learning experience, a whirlwind of growth and discovery.
Then came the opportunity that truly set my spirit alight – the chance to run the tuckshop on the Thabiso property. This wasn’t just a job; it was the immediate launchpad for my career, allowing me to start earning a living the moment I completed the course. It was the best opportunity I had received in a very long time, a powerful affirmation that filled me with hope for a future I was actively building. Beyond the tuckshop, I am also passionately baking and selling delicious cakes and biscuits, expanding my reach and my dreams.
I now make and preparing freshly produced, healthy food for the learners at Thabiso, ensuring they’re energized and ready to learn. My story has been a challenging one, marked by disappointments, but through it all, I’ve learned the
profound virtue of patience. I waited, watching doors open for others, but I never gave up. On the day I started my training at Thabiso Skills Development Centre, my own door swung wide open.
As John 10:28-30 reminds us, I have found my path, and it’s filled with purpose and passion.
