My name is Hlengiwe Mabaso. I am from Nquthu, Mafitleng. I was working at a salon since grade 11 until I finished school. I had no money to study further so I continued to do hair which I ended up doing for 13 years. I was at a preschool visiting a friend at my local church and heard about Caversham. One of the ladies there suggested I try studying through Caversham because I am so good with young children. I decided the day before schools opened to join in and on the first day of lectures I went to inquire. I didn’t even have money to study. Class was already in progress.
I promised to pay my registration fee within a week and I was allowed in the classroom. There were very few people who looked like me. One of the mentors noticed that I was extremely challenged and she gave me a pat on the back and told me to relax, she will help me do this. She then became my mentor.
I went back to the preschool that told me about Caversham and they told me the same. They offered to help me whenever I needed assistance. After doing my first assignment in over 13 years I was encouraged by the feedback and my marks.
I then did my first presentation. The first presentation of my life. I was very nervous when I saw the Director, Jabu Mtheku present, as she is the one who gave me a chance on that first day.
My first presentation got me out of my shell and made me see that I could do this, it really wasn’t bad. Second year came and I had to do my workplace assessment. It wasn’t easy but I did it. When I got feedback I realized that I was getting somewhere. Third year came and I was challenged by the group presentation. My first one ever and it was successful!
In the following year we graduated. Wow! I had never been this happy in my life. The day graduation came I was beside myself with indescribable joy!
I was so fortunate to be considered as a mentor for other Caversham students. I can now offer what that first mentor gave to me. I have mentored students from year 1 to diploma and I got to see my students (mentees) graduate. I have now started with a new group of mentees. I have never been this confident as I am today. I speak English comfortably and I couldn’t have done it without Caversham. I am an ECD teacher. I am a mentor at Caversham Institute. Thank you so much Caversham. I am what I am today through your efforts and love.
Well done Hlengiwe I’m really proud of you, I can say it proudly that you’re the best mentor I’ve ever worked with. Each morning I see you during lectures you brighten up my day and I always know that I will get best advice and the students love you dearly. Keep it up with the good good. Carry on planting the seed to those students, you might see it little what you’re doing for them but it is really good and appreciated.
Well done Hlengiwe.
Well done my friend I’m so proud if you. You are a very hard worker I know you congrats