Growth is rarely glamorous. It shows up in early mornings, uncomfortable learning curves, and the humility of asking questions you think you should already know. ORT South Africa’s programmes act as a mirror, reflecting both your weaknesses and your potential, and teaching lessons you never expected.
As a young person unsure of my path, I often followed what others told me instead of pursuing what I loved. Joining this programme shifted that mindset completely. It helped me discover my passions and reconnect with a creative side that had long been suppressed by a community that values financial security over imagination.
Through ORT SA’s programmes, learnerships, and work-readiness initiatives, you gain far more than knowledge in business, STEM, and digital fields. You earn recognised qualifications alongside practical life skills that stay with you long after the programme ends.
Before joining, I was shy and timid, often bullied for my inquisitive personality. At varsity, I stayed in the background, afraid to speak up or step outside my comfort zone. Seeing my younger brother grow through the programme — and hearing the lessons he was learning — inspired me to apply for the New Venture Creation Programme. Being accepted marked the beginning of a journey that opened doors to both the business world and deep personal growth.
Professionalism and Emotional Intelligence
One of the most impactful lessons I learnt was how to balance professionalism with emotional intelligence. Before joining the programme, I didn’t fully understand how deeply emotions affect workplace performance. Both research and lived experience quickly proved otherwise.
In our first week, the facilitator guided us on integrating emotional intelligence into professional environments. These sessions taught me how to present myself professionally while continuing to grow emotionally and personally.
I learnt that success is about more than qualifications. It is about developing employable skills, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. Learning from experienced facilitators helped me show up fully — both as a professional and as a person. While the programme supports entrepreneurs, its lessons are valuable for anyone seeking growth and a healthier work environment.
Understanding Communication
What is communication, really? Is it simply one person talking and another listening? Through the New Venture Creation Programme, I discovered that communication is far more complex. It includes verbal and non-verbal expression, confidence, body language, and active listening.
After years of feeling discouraged from sharing my opinions, the programme helped me find my voice. This transformation enabled me to present on stage, perform my poetry, succeed in job interviews, and support teenagers by reading non-verbal cues and creating safe, open spaces for them.
Communication became a tool for both personal and professional empowerment. As Peter Drucker said, “The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.”
Celebrate Progress, Not Just Achievements
One of the most valuable lessons I learnt was to celebrate the journey, not just the achievements. Focusing only on the end goal often causes us to overlook the growth, lessons, and connections formed along the way.
Before this programme, I never celebrated small steps — only major wins mattered. That mindset changed completely. I learnt that every small step contributes to the bigger picture.
A defining milestone for me was participating in the business plan competition. For many, it was about winning. For me, it was about courage. As someone who disliked being in the spotlight, pitching my business idea was terrifying. Few people saw the anxiety, tears, and moments where I nearly backed out. Pushing through that fear gave me confidence I will always value.
That experience taught me that progress itself is worth celebrating — a lesson that can benefit any young person willing to step beyond their comfort zone. As Dovid Brown said, “Take a step back and look at the bigger picture life has to offer.”
Effort Is Essential to Growth
The New Venture Creation Programme taught me that real growth requires effort and commitment. ORT SA matched my dedication every step of the way, helping me unlearn the habit of looking for shortcuts and proving that hard work truly pays off.
This journey sparked lasting transformation. I now share my poetry online, develop business ideas, and work with young people to promote entrepreneurship. I’ve inspired others to join the programme because I have experienced its life-changing impact first-hand.
For communities like Eldorado Park, where gangsterism poses real challenges, programmes like this offer hope. They build business skills, confidence, and meaningful connections. My 12-month journey strengthened my belief in my own potential and encouraged me to embrace my many interests.
The journey is not only about what you learn — but about who you become along the way. Long after the certificates are earned, the growth, confidence, and values remain.
