Introduction
Meet Ms Baleseng A. Moeketsi-Ndwanya, a proud graduate of Port Elizabeth TVET College. Her academic and professional journey reflects resilience, lifelong learning, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. Originally from Johannesburg and now living in Gqeberha, she matriculated from Morris Isaacson High School in Soweto in 2002.
Beginning at Port Elizabeth TVET College
Her journey with the College began as a student at Iqhayiya Campus, where she completed her Diploma in Business Management in 2005. Returning years later as a staff member, she continues to contribute to the same institution that shaped her early career.
Empowering College Experience
Ms Moeketsi-Ndwanya describes her time at the College as empowering and transformative. The hands-on approach, combined with strong theoretical grounding, equipped her with practical business skills and essential soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, time management, and communication.
Motivation and Personal Challenges
Motivated by financial limitations at home and the desire for an education that combined theory with practical application, she chose the TVET route. Despite challenges balancing academics, personal responsibilities, and limited resources, she persevered through disciplined time management, collaboration with peers, and support from her lecturers.
Influential Lecturers
Lecturers Ms W. le Roux and Mr A. Matima played a significant role in inspiring her to aim higher. Their guidance strengthened her confidence and contributed to her steady academic and personal growth.
Early Career and Internships
After completing her diploma, she gained valuable experience through two internships:
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An 18-month internship at Iqhayiya Campus under Mr A. Matima and Campus Head Mr Petersen
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A Document Control Internship at Coega Development Corporation (2006–2007)
Current Role and Ongoing Studies
Today, Ms Moeketsi-Ndwanya works as a Cleaner at Iqhayiya Campus, helping create a safe and welcoming environment for staff and students. Alongside her job, she continues to advance academically and recently completed her BCom Honours in Human Resource Management.
Professional Versatility
Her career spans administration, teaching, document management, quality assurance, financial advising, and cleaning services. This diverse experience showcases her adaptability and commitment to growth across corporate and educational sectors.
Continued Education Across Institutions
Her determination to keep learning led her to obtain qualifications from multiple institutions, including:
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Southwest Gauteng College (SWGC): N1–N3 Plumbing (2014)
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Port Elizabeth TVET College: N4–N5 Supervisory Management (2021)
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Regent Business School: Advanced Diploma in Management (2024) and BCom Honours in HR Management (2025)
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Nelson Mandela University: Began an Advanced Diploma in TVT (not completed due to financial constraints)
Skills Developed Through Higher Education
University strengthened her critical thinking, strategic problem-solving, leadership abilities, and analytical skills. She applied these competencies to real-world contexts, enhancing her professional effectiveness.
Despite financial challenges and resource limitations, she continued to excel by using open-source materials, joining study groups, and consulting lecturers building strong self-management skills.
Value of a TVET Education
Reflecting on her journey, she highlights the unique strengths of TVET education its practicality, industry relevance, and emphasis on work-readiness. This foundation shaped her professional development and enabled her to thrive in diverse roles.
Reflections and Advice to Students
She notes that she would have benefited from building a stronger professional network earlier but believes every step contributed to who she is today.
Her advice to current students:
“Treat your studies as your primary business, be diligent, focused, and proactive. Develop your soft skills, seek practical experience, and align your education with your long-term vision. Lifelong learning and perseverance are the true keys to success.”
Future Aspirations
Ms Moeketsi-Ndwanya plans to pursue an MBA in 2026, followed by a PhD, with the goal of advancing into leadership or strategic management roles and mentoring future professionals.
Closing Message
Her story, rising from a student at Iqhayiya Campus to a staff member completing her honours degree demonstrates that humble beginnings never define one’s destiny. With determination, a strong TVET foundation, and commitment to growth, she continues to inspire students to dream boldly and persevere.
We wish Ms Baleseng A. Moeketsi-Ndwanya all the best in her future endeavours.