I am Mmeisi Lisbeth Mosala from Welkom, Free State, a town known for its rich history in gold mining. Despite its historical significance, Welkom, like many mining towns, faces socio-economic challenges including high unemployment rates and limited access to educational facilities. Growing up in this environment, I have experienced significant barriers in career development. The lack of opportunities and resources made it difficult to envision a bright future. Many of my peers faced similar challenges, often feeling discouraged by the economic situation and the limited pathways to success. Despite these obstacles, I was resilient and sought ways to improve my situation, such as participating in community programmes, seeking mentorship, and pursuing education.
A pivotal moment for me was when I visited Thabiso Skills Development Centre, where I was enrolled in Catering in the February 2022 intake. At Thabiso I encountered skilled facilitators who not only taught me essential cooking techniques but also shared their own journeys – how they had transformed their passions into successful careers.
The supportive and encouraging environment at Thabiso inspired me in several ways. I learned about various career paths in the catering and hospitality industry, from becoming a chef to exploring roles in event management and culinary entrepreneurship. This exposure helped me realise that I had options beyond what I imagined and made me believe in myself
Through engaging with the facilitators and fellow students, I began to build a network of support. The mentorship my facilitator gave me boosted my confidence and I was provided with role models who demonstrated that success was achievable, even for those from challenging backgrounds. The hands-on training at Thabiso not only honed my culinary skills but also instilled a sense of accomplishment. As I mastered new recipes and techniques, I believed more in my own abilities.
The experience at Thabiso was transformative. It encouraged me to set personal and professional goals, fostering a sense of hope for my future. The realisation that I could turn my passion for cooking into a viable career fuelled my determination to continue my education and seek more advanced training opportunities. As a result of this transformative experience, I am now professional baker and recognising catering as a path gave me personal fulfilment.
Through the hands-on training, I learned not only how to cook and present food professionally, but also the importance of teamwork, discipline, and time management. I developed resilience by working under pressure and learned to take pride in every dish I prepared. Catering taught me that food is more than just nourishment – it is a way to connect with people, express creativity, and bring joy. The experience at Thabiso has inspired me to keep growing in the hospitality industry and to one day mentor others in the same way I was.
