A Stellenbosch-based training organisation has celebrated a remarkable milestone, honouring 100 graduates who successfully completed their first year of sustained employment with prizes exceeding R85 000.
Bergzicht Training and Development held its seventh annual Celebration Day on Wednesday 12 November, recognising alumni whose determination and “I can” spirit exemplify the NGO’s mission to transform lives through skills training.
The standout achiever was Bongile Mbola, a food-service assistant graduate now working as demi chef at Arum restaurant at Boschendal, who received the top prize worth R12 000. “I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, as well as the challenges I’ve overcome and the people who supported me every step of the way,” he said on receiving his award, sponsored by Global CEO Reenen Kok and The Commodore Hotel.
Executive chef Stella Delport of The Werf restaurant at Boschendal praised Mbola’s success: “He was a star from day one, consistently showing interest, strong work ethic and dedication in every part of the kitchen.”
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Graduates lauded
Bergzicht CEO Michele Walker told the graduates: “Your tenacity, hard work and resilience remind us why we do the work we do. We reached all our targets, exceeded our fundraising budget and retained a 95% ‘throughput’ rate during 2024.”
Keynote speaker Councillor Ndipiwe Olayi, Mayoral Committee member for Sport, Youth and Culture, delivered an inspiring address centred on the event’s theme. “Today’s theme ‘I CAN’ is not just a phrase; it is a declaration, a mindset. You are the embodiment of possibility. You have taken the knowledge, values and resilience gained at Bergzicht and turned them into careers that inspire.”
Two runners-up received smartphones donated by John and Alet Morgan, Tashnovan Lourens, a child-care graduate at Froggies Aftercare, and Bridgette Stoffels, who works in health and frail-care at Geluksoord.
“This prize will remind me of what we can achieve through hard work, dedication and teamwork,” said Stoffels.
Unwavering support
Programme category winners Adrian Denyssen (demi chef de partie at Babel), Melissa Apollis (ward hostess at Careserv) and Zimbini Manini (frail-care worker at Azaleahof) each received microwaves from private donors.
The celebration drew significant support from the Hanns Seidel Foundation, Remgro and various industry partners.
Kathy Harris, chairperson of the Bergzicht’s board, emphasised the collaborative nature of the organisation’s success. “Together with funders, training partners, employers and the friends of Bergzicht, we form a formidable team. We remain committed to empowering individuals through basic skills training.”
- Bergzicht offers training in frail-care, hospitality and child-care. Call student support coordinator Corine Mans on 021 883 3525.
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