My name is Molete Reitumetse Nelly, a resident of Welkom, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my journey. Looking back at where I started and where I am today fills my heart with appreciation and hope.
There was a time in my life when I felt discouraged and stuck. While completing my Boilermaker apprenticeship at Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein, I experienced a life-changing setback. On 22 June 2025, I suffered a severe injury to four of my fingers while working with a roller machine. As a result, I had to return home to recover, and my hands remained immobile for two months. It was one of the most difficult periods of my life.
After recovering, I returned with hope and determination to continue and complete my apprenticeship. Sadly, I discovered that my position had been given to another candidate. I felt heartbroken and uncertain about my future. However, even during that difficult time, I never gave up on myself. Deep inside, I still believed that I was capable of achieving more. I knew I needed to learn new skills and create new opportunities for myself.
In 2025, a friend introduced me to Thabiso Skills Development Centre in Welkom, and I am so thankful that I took that recommendation seriously. I immediately made enquiries about their programmes and enrolled in the Welding short course for the September 2025 intake. One of the most memorable parts of my journey was realising that I was the only woman in the class. Instead of feeling intimidated, that experience changed my perspective and motivated me even more.
The training gave me much more than technical welding skills and safety knowledge. It taught me discipline, resilience, and confidence. The Business and Life Skills modules became an important part of my personal growth. They helped me manage my time better, strengthened my mindset, and equipped me with entrepreneurial and life skills that continue to guide me every day.
I am deeply thankful to Thabiso Skills Development Centre because the training transformed me in ways I never expected. It helped me develop a growth mindset, believe in my abilities, and approach life with confidence. Because of the skills and certification I gained, I confidently applied to Transnet and received an invitation to Pretoria to write an assessment. I also took the initiative to present my credentials to a local trailer manufacturing company, and I was blessed to secure a position as a Welder’s Assistant.
Today, I can proudly say that my journey has
taught me that setbacks do not define us. Sometimes difficult moments redirect us toward even greater opportunities. I am grateful for every challenge, every lesson, and every person who supported me along the way.
People often say welding is a man’s world, but I believe it becomes even stronger with a woman’s touch. I am proud to be part of that change, and I look forward to inspiring other women to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
