A talented craftsman by the name of Zakhele Sono has been working his way up from a modest beginning in the town of Nkomazi, Mpumalanga. The 36-year-old’s story is a lesson in the value of hard work, perseverance, and the support of family and friends.
Laying the Groundwork for Skilled Labour
Sono’s life was profoundly altered by his choice to become an artisan. He learned what he needed to know to get his National Certificate in Engineering and Related Design at Ehlanzeni Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) College in kaMaqhekeza, Mpumalanga. He now works as a qualified Boilermaker for Afrimat Mining in Mpumalanga, thanks in large part to the training he received there.
As a boilermaker, he is responsible for the construction, assembly, installation, and repair of boilers, vessels, tanks, and towers made of metal. This is a hard profession that necessitates excellent attention to detail and familiarity with advanced engineering concepts.
Be a Lighthouse for Your Neighbourhood
Beyond his successes, Sono has made significant contributions. The Vuk’uzenzele newspaper held an event called Vuk Talks when he spoke to the community. These quarterly gatherings facilitate conversation between residents, readers, and community-focused organisations.
Through this medium, Sono emphasised the value of perseverance and academic achievement. He thinks that success in school is the key to finding a job or starting a business. According to Sono, he got his first real break in the business because of his stellar academic credentials.
Creating Sustainable Transformation
Sono’s leadership skills shone throughout his stay at Ehlanzeni TVET College. The School Representative Council (SRC) elected him president in 2009.
A member of the council introduced me to an employer during one of our sessions. He testified to my dedication and desire to succeed,” Sono says. This recommendation, together with Sono’s stellar academic background, was important in landing him his first job and setting him on the path to success.
The Power of Success in One Man’s Life
Sono’s fame as a craftsman goes far beyond his professional accomplishments. It’s had a profound effect on his private life, allowing him to be a better provider for his loved ones. He proved the transformational power of dedication and hard work by building a home for his mom and paying for his siblings’ college education.
There is no other field I could see myself working in. Sono reveals his long-term ambitions: “I hope to one day run my own business.”
Zakhele Sono’s story shows how hard work, academic achievement, and community service may lead to prosperity. His story is an inspiration to the young of South Africa because it shows them that a career in artisanship can be successful and rewarding.
About The Author:
Lunga Dlamini is a journalist specialising in African start-ups and entrepreneurship. Lunga’s fascination with innovative business models and emerging market trends guides his writing. He has an MBA and has been with Africa Nova since its inception.
