Edu-Build Institute
de Jager's Campuses

From Nobody to Somebody: My Life-Changing Journey with Edu-Build Institute In February 2022, my life took a turn I could hardly have imagined. As a mother of three—ages 12, 7, and 2—I was struggling to make ends meet, balancing my responsibilities and feeling unsure of how to pursue my dreams. My salary barely covered the essentials, and the thought of adding studies to my already packed life seemed overwhelming. But deep down, I felt there was more for me, so I took a leap and applied for a learnership with Edu-Build Institute. My application felt like a long shot. I only had R500 in my pocket, nowhere near the R2500 registration fee. Still, I knew I had to try. The principal of the crèche where I worked saw my determination and generously lent me the initial amount. And as luck would have it, a representative from the Khoisan Council managed to negotiate a discount for unqualified ECD teachers, a deal Mr. Anthony De Jager honoured. With his encouragement, I began a journey that would change everything. Working with 2–3-year-olds, I discovered a deep love for nurturing young minds. When our kitchen lady left, I learned how to cook for the children, growing in humility and resilience as I embraced every new skill. Meanwhile, I was working hard on my NQF Level 4, but it wasn’t just academics that Edu-Build offered me. I was given the chance to organize a major event—the Dedication and Culture Day. I felt out of my depth, but Mr. De Jager simply asked, "Why not you?" With his encouragement, I took charge, even securing a guest speaker, Mel J. The day was a resounding success, and Mel later invited me to be the Master of Ceremonies at her book launch—a highlight I hadn’t even dreamed of! Then, my journey took another unexpected turn: Mr. De Jager offered me a role managing the Lenasia campus, with the potential to become a partner. I threw myself into finding a suitable location, ultimately establishing our home at Impala Crescent Primary School. We started with just two students, but by June 2023, we had 14 Level 4 students! The momentum and excitement were exhilarating, and I knew I was right where I was meant to be. A condition of this new opportunity was that I continue my education. With pride, I completed my NQF Level 5 in Early Childhood Development. Today, I am teaching eight Level 5 students and five Level 4 students in an environment that thrives on collaboration and support. Edu-Build has empowered me in ways I never thought possible—I now have multiple income streams and have grown personally beyond what I ever dreamed. Throughout, Mr. De Jager’s encouragement and my faith in God have been my guiding lights. He often reminds me of the importance of a “top-up” of inspiration, drawn from the story in Mark 9:24 about a father asking Jesus to help his unbelief. For me, “Top-Up” has become a personal motto and a reminder to keep seeking strength when mine feels depleted. Today, as Manager of the Lenasia Campus, I feel profoundly grateful. Recently, I won a competition with Mel J to attend her RE 5 workshops, an opportunity that fills me with excitement and opens doors for my future. My dedication at the Crèche has also not gone unnoticed I was promoted to teach the Grade R class. This new role deepened my passion for teaching, as I witnessed the incredible developmental strides young children make when supported and encouraged. My journey has connected me with extraordinary people and helped me uncover strengths I didn’t know I had. I’m living proof that belief, support, and determination can transform a life. From feeling like a nobody to realizing I am somebody, my journey with Edu-Build Institute and the unshakeable faith of the likes of Mel J and Mr. De Jager has shown me that the impossible can be achieved. Thank you for being part of this remarkable experience!