From Chaos to Clarity Through Courage and Connection

Palesa Tshabalala's story is not just about a Business Administration learnership; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of perseverance, and the surprising paths that can lead to self-discovery. From a childhood marked by loss and upheaval to finding a sense of purpose and belonging, Palesa's journey is both moving and inspiring.

Growing up as an only child with two step-siblings, Palesa describes her early years as "very chaotic." At the tender age of twelve, she faced unimaginable tragedy, losing both her mother and father. During her mother's illness, Palesa took on the responsibility of caring for her, while also supporting her sister with Down syndrome. A move to her grandmother in the North West provided a period of stability, where Palesa thrived academically, becoming one of the top learners in her school.

However, at thirteen, another significant challenge emerged: Palesa became ill, returning to her stepmother proved to be a turning point, as her stepmother, being a nurse, ensured Palesa received the necessary medical care. This experience led to an unforeseen role as a motivational speaker at the clinic, where she shared her story with younger children living with various illnesses, offering them hope and encouragement.

Life took another turn in 2016 with the passing of her grandmother, prompting a return to her step-parents. Despite not being accepted into university initially, Palesa's determination shone through. She didn't give up on her dreams of higher education and independently pursued electrical engineering studies, although financial constraints unfortunately prevented her from completing her degree. Undeterred, she secured an administrative role at a government clinic, proactively seeking opportunities to enhance her skills through computer courses.

When asked about her dreams, Palesa's aspirations reveal a beautiful blend of her past interests and newly discovered passions. While she still holds the desire to finish her electrical engineering degree and secure an apprenticeship, her experience in administration has ignited a different kind of fulfillment. "I loved being able to work with different kinds of people, being able to listen and be there for people that needed support," she shares, highlighting her innate empathy and desire to connect with others.

Reflecting on her potential path without the learnership, Palesa believes she would have continued in administration or data capturing, emphasizing her positive outlook and determination to "make something work." This inherent optimism has undoubtedly been a driving force throughout her life.

The learnership program has equipped Palesa with tangible skills, including professional communication, business administration, and a practical understanding of how businesses operate. However, the impact extends far beyond these technical abilities. "I learnt a lot," she states, underscoring the comprehensive nature of her growth.

The Business Administration learnership has surprisingly unveiled a new facet of Palesa's identity. "My hopes changed because of doing Business Administration, it showed me a part of myself I did not know," she explains. It has been a journey of overcoming obstacles and self-discovery, teaching her the crucial life skills of prioritizing, staying focused, being organized, and consistent – lessons learned while balancing work and study. This experience has instilled in her a proactive mindset: "Not everything is a problem when you can think of a solution." Furthermore, it has provided clarity about her career aspirations, shaping her CV into a testament of her capabilities even before a potential employer meets her.

The journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Balancing the demands of work and study required rigorous prioritization. The long commute from Vereeniging to Pretoria presented another significant challenge, yet Palesa's commitment remained unwavering. "But I need to show up, I was given the opportunity," she affirms, highlighting her deep sense of gratitude and responsibility. Through these challenges, she has not only learned to budget and plan effectively but has also embraced a "new Palesa," one equipped with resilience and resourcefulness.

When asked about particularly memorable lessons from the combination of training and workplace experience, Palesa shares with a laugh, "Oh it did, I can't stay away from being in front of a laptop, I love a screen!" Beyond this newfound affinity for technology, the workplace environment fostered a strong sense of belonging. "In the workplace you spend most of your time with people that you get to know really well, you will get random hugs, it was a feeling of family," she recounts, emphasizing the significance of the love, support, and genuine connections she experienced. "It was being able to have the relationship with people, to engage and to be present."

In a heartfelt message to the Sponsor, Palesa expresses profound gratitude for the opportunity. "How do I show gratitude?" she asks, her sincerity palpable. "I am so grateful for being able to grow. For showing me a side of myself I did not know. I would want to make them proud, that they are producing good people, worthy of the opportunity and that they showed interest and helped me develop my skills and showed an interest in my future. So, Thank you."

Palesa Tshabalala's story is a powerful reminder that learning extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. It's about personal evolution, discovering hidden strengths, and forging meaningful connections. Her journey, marked by both hardship and hope, underscores the transformative power of opportunity and the enduring strength of the human spirit.