My name is Kamohelo Tlali, and I am excited and grateful to share my journey with you. Looking back at where I started and where I am today fills me with pride and appreciation.
Before I discovered Thabiso Skills Development Centre in 2024, life was extremely difficult for me. Like many young people, I struggled with unemployment, poverty, and uncertainty about my future. There were moments when I felt discouraged and questioned what direction my life was taking.
As time went on, someone introduced me to Thabiso Skills Development Centre. At first, I was unsure and even doubted whether it would truly benefit me. I wondered if it would really change anything in my life. Despite my doubts, I decided to take a chance and give it an opportunity – and that decision became one of the best decisions I have ever made.
My journey was not easy. I completed four courses, and along the way, I faced many challenges. Being away from home was difficult, especially when it came to accommodation. There were days when I slept with an empty stomach, and times when I felt overwhelmed. But those difficult moments became my motivation. They reminded me why I had started this journey and inspired me to keep going. I pushed through every challenge with determination and faith. I stayed focused on my goals and refused to give up. Through the Life Skills sessions at Thabiso, I gained confidence, a renewed mindset, self-esteem, resilience, and a new sense of purpose. For the first time in a long time, I truly believed that I had a future worth fighting for.
One of the greatest achievements in my journey was obtaining my Plumbing certificate. Through the programme, I learned about plumbing tools, responsibility, discipline, time management, and maintaining excellence in my work. I gained practical experience in sanitation systems, drainage, blockages, PVC pipe installations, basins, toilet installations, bathtubs, and many other technical skills. Every lesson expanded my knowledge and gave me confidence in my abilities.
After completing my courses, I started small. I began buying tools for my workshop little by little while trying to market my services. It was not easy in the beginning, but I remained humble and continued working hard. Slowly people started recognising my work and my dedication.
Today, I proudly own a workshop called Martins Traders, and I am happy to say the business is growing and thriving in the market. My journey has changed so much that I have almost forgotten about submitting CVs because I have created opportunities for myself.
I can confidently say that Thabiso Skills Development Centre became a true game changer in my life. Today I have the confidence to take on contracts, solve problems for clients and communities, and apply the knowledge and skills I gained through my training.
I now see myself differently. I feel empowered, skilled, and ready for any challenge. I believe I can work anywhere because clients value educated and skilled people with experience and discipline. Most importantly, Thabiso taught me one powerful lesson – in life, you must learn to make something out of nothing and create opportunities for yourself.
I will always be grateful to Thabiso Skills Development Centre for the excellent work they continue to do. Thank you for believing in me, investing in my future, and helping me become the person I am today.
My journey proves that with opportunity, perseverance, and the right support, lives can truly change.
