I am Rethabile Boitumelo Ntuka, and I’m bursting with excitement to share my journey. I come from the charming town of Virginia, just outside Welkom in the Free State.
Before I found Thabiso Skills Development Centre, I struggled to keep my business on track. I didn’t have a clear plan, and I lacked strong relationships with my clients because of social anxiety. I didn’t know how to express myself or market my services, which made me vulnerable to competitors and I found it difficult to connect with clients.
But everything changed when I discovered Thabiso. I started in the Office Administration programme in February 2025 to sharpen my skills in managing my business.
The incredible Life Skills programme pushed me to do some serious self-reflection. I faced my fears head-on and started to see things from a new perspective. The activities and teamwork exercises taught me that I am capable of overcoming obstacles – sometimes I just need to find the right solution, apply it at the right time – and if it doesn’t work, I can always try again or ask for help. That’s a game-changer. Before the programme, I’d shy away from interviews and meetings, shyly answering only when necessary. Now, I step into leadership roles with confidence and pride. I’ve learned how to organise big projects, plan ahead, and always have a backup plan. I know how to promote my business, keep track of cashflow, and manage site project expenses and documentation.
Thanks to the Small, Medium and Microenterprise training and the Office Administration programme I’ve become a fearless leader who empowers others rather than dominating them. I now have the tools to plan effectively, market my services passionately, and ensure that my business runs smoothly and professionally.
I am proud to be the director and owner of Active Development Trading, a vibrant construction and civil engineering company. We have proudly supplied Sibanye Stillwater with tools and built beautiful carports for them. We are also about to install underground water tanks. I’ve employed people from our community – because I believe in creating opportunities right here at home.
My message to everyone is, no matter how tough things seem at the start, there is always room for improvement. With determination, discipline, and a positive mindset, anything is possible. Never let negativity from others hold you back. Starting a small business comes with challenges, but it’s how you handle those hurdles that will shape your success.
This is my incredible learning curve, my journey of growth, resilience, and hope – and I’m just getting started.
