For many young people, completing matric is a stepping stone to higher education and fulfilling career aspirations. However, not everyone follows a smooth path to university, some face challenges that force them to explore alternative opportunities. Lethabo Matsepane is one such individual whose journey took an unexpected but life-changing turn.

Originally from Limpopo and raised in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, Lethabo completed her matric in 2019 with dreams of becoming a medical doctor. However, her aspirations were shattered when she did not meet the minimum university requirements for a medical degree. This left her feeling desperate and uncertain about her future.

In 2022, hope was restored when Matsepane came across an advertisement for the Xilembeni Skills Development Centre, a training facility in Bapsfontein, Ekurhuleni, funded by the Department of Social Development. The centre focuses on technical skills training for unemployed youth, particularly those recovering from substance abuse, helping them gain employment and break cycles of poverty and crime. 

Courses offered include plumbing, electrical engineering, and welding.

Determined to secure her future, Matsepane enrolled in a plumbing course, a field traditionally dominated by men. She saw it as an opportunity to become employable and one day start her own plumbing business. With dedication and passion, she successfully completed the six-month program.

After completing the course, Matsepane initially worried about finding a job. However, fate intervened when she was offered a position as a Receptionist and Administrator at the very same training centre.

“When I came here, I thought I would have to look for a job elsewhere after getting my certificate, but I was fortunate to find employment right here,” she says.

This opportunity transformed her life. Not only did it provide financial stability, but it also enabled her to support her family, including helping her younger brother with school expenses.

Lethabo encourages other young people to embrace alternative learning opportunities, including skills development programs, instead of feeling discouraged about not attending university.

“I want young people to take full advantage of such opportunities and not look down on skills centres as they truly change lives. This place has transformed my life in ways I never imagined,” she says.

Today, Lethabo continues to work as a Receptionist at Xilembeni Skills Development, using her role to guide and assist other young people in accessing training opportunities. Her journey doesn’t stop there, she has now enrolled at UNISA for a Higher Certificate in Law, a qualification she hopes will further advance her career and personal growth.

Matsepane’ s story is evidence to the power of resilience, skills development, and seizing opportunities. Her journey proves that success comes in many forms and with the right mindset, any path can lead to a brighter future.