From Two Wheels to Centre Stage

Life rarely follows a straight line. Instead, it twists and turns, presenting us with challenges that can lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations. The story of Khutso Mogale is a perfect example. His journey began with dreams of entrepreneurship, took a detour through unforeseen circumstances, and ultimately led him to a place where passion and purpose meet.

Born in 2002, Khutso grew up in a home where hard work was not just encouraged—it was expected. With a father in the Air Force and a mother active in politics, he learned early on that nothing in life is handed to you. Rewards were earned, not given, a principle that deeply shaped his character and approach to life. Even as a child, Khutso was full of drive and big ideas.

Khutso's initial dream was to start a bike rental company. For two years, this dream came true. He rented out two bikes to prominent food delivery companies in Johannesburg and Pretoria. This was his first taste of independence and building a business from the ground up. However, as often happens in the unpredictable landscape of small business, unforeseen circumstances forced the business to close. This could have been a moment of great disappointment, the end of his entrepreneurial dream. Instead, it was a pause, a comma in his story, before an unexpected turn.

Khutso's path has taken a turn towards recruitment and administration, working for a Skills Development Training provider. This might seem far removed from the open road and bike logistics. Yet, this experience has proved invaluable, providing stability and new skills. But his dreams of creativity and performance, his passion for the arts, has never truly disappeared.

Today, Khutso is finding a way to live those dreams, not in the way he originally imagined, but perhaps in an even richer and more fulfilling way. During the day, he focuses on recruitment and administration. But after hours, he enters the world of drama. As an actor with a drama company that performs at the State Theatre, Khutso brings characters to life and connects with audiences. He also enjoys modelling for well-known brands, expressing his creativity in a different way. And still his entrepreneurial spirit remains. Khutso desires to start a business again, using the lessons he learned from his past experiences.

A significant turning point in Khutso's journey was a Learnership in New Venture Creation. This was more than just a learnership; it was a life-changing experience. As Khutso says, it "changed my life" and "opened doors to jobs I can only imagine." His previous work in courier and retail had been challenging and demanding, but it also provided valuable experience, especially in developing people skills. The Learnership, however, offered a different kind of education: a deep dive into the complexities of business.

The program taught Khutso the importance of careful planning, the need to delegate, and the reality that business involves navigating unexpected challenges. One of the most valuable lessons he learned was the importance of having a mentor. Finding the right mentor, someone with relevant experience and wisdom, was a challenge. Eventually, Khutso found a mentor who provided invaluable guidance on the bike rental business: the necessary paperwork, the use of trackers, and, crucially, how to adapt to changes and challenges.

Looking back on his journey, Khutso feels deeply grateful. When asked what message he would like to share with the Sponsor, his response is heartfelt: "Thank you for giving me the opportunity. Thank you for the opportunity that you have given every person that is not able to say thank you. Thank you for supporting the community and providing the tools for change."

Khutso Mogale's story is more than just a series of career changes or the pursuit of passion. It is a story about the power of resilience, the importance of continuous learning, and the understanding that opportunities, even those that seem like detours, can lead us to where we are meant to be. It is a reminder that dreams can evolve, passions can be pursued in different ways, and that with the right support and determination, any path can lead to a fulfilling future. Khutso Mogale's journey, from two wheels to centre stage, is a powerful illustration that life's unexpected turns can often lead to the most rewarding destinations.