FOR a learner such as Lethu Tshambi, attending the career expo at the Golden Gate, in the Free State province, was an eye-opener.
Lethu (20) from the famous Phefeni High School in Phefeni, Soweto showed that anything is possible in life.
She was part of the 14 learners who were selected at her school, to be part of the SANParks in partnership with Cell C- previously known as “take a girl child to work day” a programme that has been on-going since 2008.
During their 3-day stay at the Golden Gate reserve, that is made popular by effervescent mountains and the hills, she learnt a lot, though according a Tourism learner, it was ‘little time’.
“It was adventurous and an eye-opener for me, especially since I study Tourism subject at school. This meant I could in future, upon completion of my Gr 12, would pursue Tourism career, that showed a lot of potential for me,” says the Grade 11, who is also doing Consumer, History, IsiZulu and English subjects.
She also enjoyed horse-riding, hiking trails, distinctive geology, natural beauty and cultural heritage in the park, a first for her and school-mates from Grade 8 to 12.
Gabrielle “Gabby” Venter- media and stakeholder relations manager at SanParks, who accompanied the learners on this expedition says, the ‘See Youth’ objective is to unlock the potential in every child.
The campaign, addresses amongst others entrepreneurial, educational, wellness and social aspects of a child from early stages.
An excited Siyasamkela Diko, a teacher at Phefeni High, could not hide her excitement when asked on the expedition and what was learnt.
“The hospitality was on par with what the reserve stands for. As for the experience, learners were introduced to various careers one could chose upon completion of their Grade 12 and make a living out it,” says Diko, who teaches Tourism at Gr 10, Consumer Studies for Grades 11 and IsiXhosa.
And yes, she did confirm she is related to former President spokesperson Khusela Diko.
Although she complaint bitterly about the cold weather, Diko pointed out the expedition was fulfilling for the learners and had hoped they’ve grasped a lot to share with others, on what they were taught, especially from Tourism related subjects.
Other learners who attended included Kutloano Ramotsabe, who promised he’s considering Tourism related subjects upon completion of his school days; Siyabonga Hlubi, who loves hospitality and would follow it with passion and Lesedi Kanyane, who loves nature and would follow in the footsteps of park game rangers declaring “I love being in the open space”.
On the last day, all learners had to submit their reports.
“See Youth employs an approach that exposes youth to information and provides tools and resources that foster a foundation for self-sufficiency, resilience and an ability to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and contribute positively to their communities,” according to SANParks head of communications JP Louw.
“Pupils participating in the initiative, have been exposed to various careers on offer at SANParks,” added Louw.
The campaign is an annual initiative to expose learners from all provinces to various study opportunities within the Tourism sector.
Top image supplied SanParks (Brrr. Phefeni High learners enjoying rides on horses at Golden Gate, FS, during an educational excursion).
