Themba Training’s Stories of hope
Success stories like these that remind us what it’s all about. These two beautiful ladies below, Loveness (left) and Shanelle (right), with Themba Training Project Manager Marla, completed their sewing training at Themba Training and are now permanently employed by Sheltersuit Foundation SA, an organisation close to our hearts.
Themba Training hosted a sewing course at their office and in the third quarter of 2021 when Shanelle registered for Basic Sewing Training. She was very enthusiastic about the course and eagerly absorbed the information that was taught. She successfully completed three products during this course and showed great aptitude for her newly acquired skill. She immediately applied for the follow-on course, Intermediate Sewing Training, which is the introduction to dressmaking. During this course, Shanelle made a lined bomber-jacket and modelled her jacket with great pride. After completing this course, she made regular use of the Themba Training fabric sales, purchasing offcut fabric to perfect her skills.
Shanelle kept in regular contact with Themba Training, and when a local sewing company enquired about sewing candidates for their business, Shanelle’s name was immediately put forward. She was interviewed and was successfully appointed on a three months probationary contract by the Sheltersuit Foundation SA, at the end of 2021. Having proven herself during this time, she was subsequently appointed on a full-time basis on their team. This enabled her to provide for herself and her extended family, who she lives with. This is just another example of how Themba Training provides hope through social entrepreneurship. The relationship between Themba Training and Shanelle continues, as she regularly checks in and allows us to continually celebrate her progress.
Loveness was another lady who joined our Basic Sewing Training at the end of 2021, a softly-spoken individual and eager to learn all she could. She planned to use her newly found skill to supplement her income. She subsequently enrolled and completed the Intermediate Sewing Training at the same time as Shanelle and even attended our Saturday Sewing Support Group on a regular basis. During her time at Themba Training, she further developed her skillset, by working on a variety of sewing projects.
When the Sheltersuit Foundation SA contacted Themba Training at the beginning of 2023, to ask for referrals of suitable members of their growing sewing team, we put Loveness’ name forward. She has been working as a member of their team since March 2023.
Proud is an understatement. We can’t wait to see these two talented ladies flourish and we’re excited to see what the future holds for them.
