Tsamaelo Phomane’s journey with False Bay TVET College is a testament to how determination, discipline, and the right support can shape a promising future. Residing in Khayelitsha, Tsamaelo enrolled at the Khayelitsha Campus to study Public Management, driven by a desire to advance in his career, improve his work performance, and create more opportunities for himself.
Choosing his field of study was a natural step, as it aligned perfectly with his work experience. His time at False Bay TVET College was both educational and enriching, equipping him with valuable knowledge and skills, including computer literacy and a deep understanding of how the public sector operates.
Balancing studies with other commitments wasn’t without challenges. Time management and maintaining focus required discipline, but Tsamaelo overcame these obstacles through perseverance. Outside the classroom, he was an active soccer player and participated in running races, proving his commitment to both academic and extracurricular excellence.
Prior to his studies, Tsamaelo gained practical experience through an apprenticeship in retail and an internship in the public sector. These opportunities, combined with his education, prepared him for his current role and motivated him to aim higher. His first role as an intern at the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) sparked a determination to continue his studies and position himself for more senior roles.
Tsamaelo acknowledges that not every step of the journey was smooth at one point, he lost focus during exam periods and even failed a subject. However, these experiences became valuable lessons that he now shares with others: “Don’t lose focus during exams and choose a course that aligns with your work to make the process smoother.”
Today, Tsamaelo is focused on furthering his career, starting his own business, and giving back to the college community. He actively motivates and assists fellow students with study discipline, logbook completion, and exam preparation. His involvement in a supportive study group not only helped him succeed academically but also strengthened his sense of responsibility to his peers.
Tsamaelo’s story is a reminder that success is not about avoiding challenges, but about learning from them, staying committed, and using your experiences to inspire others. His journey from student to thriving professional embodies the spirit of False Bay TVET College turning aspirations into achievements.
