Biography

In 1997, I obtained my O’ level certificate with a low pass rate which did not qualify me to continue my studies at the tertiary level. My parents could not afford for me to redo form 4, so I had to look for a job. As it was very hard to find one, I decided to volunteer in Ayibuyimbeleko Shewula, an orphanage. In 2005- 2006, I was employed as a Community Development Facilitator by Micro Project, a partner of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Swaziland and Imbita. I was ten years out of school when I received a call that I have been awarded a scholarship by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. I wondered whether I would make it in class after all these years. But then, after participating in leadership workshops that prepared us for classes, including presentation skills (PowerPoint), using a computer, doing group assignments and ploughback, I was ready to go back to school. During the KSAL workshops, I also obtained skills such as perseverance, patience, networking, time management, developing a goal and not losing focus until you achieve it. All of this made a big difference in my life. I was supported financially through the stipend so I could take care of my family while I was away from home. My extended family was affected too. I was able to buy my mother a 5000 liter tank to collect water during the rainy season so she no longer had to walk a distance of 5 km to a spring to fetch water. Academically, I was fully supported so I could complete my studies within the given time, which was four years. I didn’t supplement any course and passed with a Distinction at CIDA CITY Campus, obtaining a degree of BBA.