My name is Elias Thapelo Nxumalo, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my journey. When I look back at how far I have come, I feel thankful, hopeful, and proud because my story reminds me that every small step can lead to something meaningful.
I attended Leboneng Special School, and after completing my studies, finding employment was very difficult. Like many young people, I faced uncertainty and challenges, and there were times when I wondered what the future would hold for me. Even though opportunities were hard to find, I refused to lose hope.
I started selling achar in the community. It was a small beginning, but I was grateful because it gave me an opportunity to start somewhere. I worked hard and continued growing my small business little by little. I enrolled in the Catering course in 2025 at Thabiso Skills Development Centre.
Joining Thabiso Skills Development Centre became a turning point in my life. I am deeply thankful because the Centre gave me more than just training – it gave me confidence, hope, and practical skills that I could use to build my future. During my learning journey, I gained valuable knowledge about food preparation, cooking techniques, hygiene, and the importance of cleanliness in the hospitality industry. I also learned important lessons about financial management and how to manage resources wisely.
What made my journey even more special was the support I received from my facilitator. I am incredibly thankful for the patience, encouragement, and guidance I received throughout the learning process. The support motivated me to believe in myself and continue working toward my goals even when things felt difficult.
The impact of Thabiso Skills Development Centre did not stop there. I also gained plumbing skills through the Centre, which expanded my abilities and opened my mind to more opportunities. Having multiple skills has made me feel stronger and more prepared for the future. Every day I wake up with confidence because I know I have skills that continue to grow and create possibilities in my life.
My journey has taught me that skills are powerful because they give people opportunities to create a better future for themselves. In a country where employment opportunities can be limited, learning a skill can help someone become independent and even create jobs for others. That is why I proudly encourage people to invest in skills development and take opportunities to improve themselves.
I am proud to say that Thabiso Skills Development Centre helped me see possibilities where I once saw obstacles. Today I move forward with confidence, gratitude, and excitement for the future.
