Learners from Khulani and Isilimela high schools got more than they bargained for last week when popular television personality Katlego Maboe took to the stage during a Youth Accelerator Class of 2023 at loveLife Centre.
The fun-filled event, on Thursday 20 July, was organised by fibre network operator Octotel. It featured different speakers including Vincent Manzini (co-owner of Blank Kanvas and Ikapa Live and a house DJ), Siya Beyile (founder of media and consulting company Threaded Man), Ntlalo Jordan (owner of Jordan’s Way of Cooking) and Ayanda Kahla (founder of AK Fitness).
The speakers encouraged the learners to focus on their studies and not to be deterred by anything. Different companies also showcased their products and offered advice to learners and residents.
Carly Haydricks, Octotel’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team leader, described the event as the first of its kind for a township. She said they wanted to give learners another perspective on life.
She stated the event formed part of the company’s social responsibility plans. She said they also provided bursaries for matric learners.
Haydricks said they aim to give learners exposure to the technology.
“It is important for us to give fair opportunities to each township to have fiber connectivity and that includes giving free connectivity to our schools, both Khulani and Isilimela,” said Haydricks.
The highlight of the day was the appearance of Deal or No Deal host, Maboe, who not only acted as the master of the ceremony but shared some wise words with the learners.
He was followed on stage by Manzini who narrated a tough story of his upbringing to becoming a successful businessman and DJ.
Manzini urged learners to focus on their studies and stated that each person had a seed that required nurturing.
“I grew up like any other child in the townships. I grew up in a challenging background but with love. I had big dreams. If I had listened to other people I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” said Manzini.
He stated he was raised by a single parent after his parents divorced when he was still young.
“After my parents divorced, I was about 13 years old. I had to work as a taxi conductor at Wynberg. I was hurting inside because of the situation that I was facing at home at that time. But I think what changed me is the power of conviction. The belief that I had is what made me a stronger person and the person that I am today,” he said to the round of applause. He stated that faced a mountain of challenges but his ambitions led him to success.
Sibahle Dilayi, a Life Orientation teacher at Khulani, praised the organisers of the event, saying it was helpful and educational to the learners.
“I believe that many learners will be motivated as they are listening to the speakers telling their stories. They can hear that there are other people who faced the same challenges that they are facing today but they managed to succeed. That means if they (learners) can work hard and be resilient they can also succeed,” said Dilayi.
She cited that they have a challenge with other learners who have a problem with substance abuse.
Grade 12 learner from Khulani Luxolo Siziba (18) described the event as educational and informative. He stated that the event revived his spirit.
“It’s my first time attending such an event. I feel motivated and inspired to hear some of the stories that were narrated by the speakers. It shows that as long as you are resolute and focused anything is possible,” said Siziba.