Behind Every Statistic Is A Person.
“It is not enough to teach. We must also train the heart.”
Don Bosco
At the Salesian Institute Youth Projects, we believe in the transformative power of education and skills training to shape bright futures. Our success stories are not just about achievements, they are about real individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by the opportunities provided through our programmes.
Here, we share the voices of a few of the young people who have embarked on a journey of empowerment, skill development, and lasting change.
A Mother's Gratitude
A Testimony of Transformation through Waves of Change
As a single mother and widow raising two boys in a community where they have lost nearly 20 young lives to gun violence, Sonia Thomas feared for her sons’ futures. Waves of Change gave them something she could not, a safe space to grieve, grow, and discover a sense of purpose beyond their surroundings. Today, Matthew is preparing to board his first MSC Cruise Ship, and Alex wakes up every morning with a motivation she had never seen in him before.
A Mother's Gratitude – A Testimony of Transformation through Waves of Change
As the mother of Matthew and Alex, Sonia Thomas is deeply moved by the remarkable impact Waves of Change has had on both her sons. When Matthew first joined the programme, she saw a shift in him that she hadn’t seen in a long time. He had become withdrawn following the sudden passing of his father, and it was clear that he was carrying a burden too heavy for a young man to bear alone. But Waves of Change created a safe, nurturing environment where he could begin to open up, express himself, and reconnect with his sense of purpose.
Soon after, her younger son Alex also joined, although reluctantly at first. Sonia had to strongly encourage him to attend. Today, she says with heartfelt sincerity that it was one of the best decisions for him. He now wakes up early, prioritises his responsibilities, completes his homework with enthusiasm, and carries a motivation she hadn’t seen in him before. He has discovered a sense of direction and self-belief that every parent hopes to witness in their child.
As a single mother and widow, raising two boys in an environment where violence is a daily reality has not been easy for Sonia. Since moving into their current community, they’ve lost nearly 20 young lives to gun violence, two of them being their immediate neighbours’ sons. In such a context, the role Waves of Change has played cannot be overstated. It has not only kept her children safe and engaged, but has also offered them a vision of life beyond their surroundings, a life filled with opportunity, growth, and dignity.
Matthew, after joining in November, is now preparing to embark on his first job onboard an MSC Cruise Ship. He has found hope and purpose again. This journey has been a turning point for him, and for the family. What Sonia also deeply values is the emotional support her sons received. Losing their father to a sudden heart attack was a devastating blow. They’ve been trying to piece their lives back together ever since. Through the compassionate support of the social workers at Waves of Change, both Matthew and Alex found the courage to talk about their grief and begin to heal.
Waves of Change has not only changed her sons' lives, it has changed their entire family’s path. Sonia says she will forever carry a deep sense of gratitude for the guidance, care, and transformation that this programme has brought into their lives.
Denyone April
A Young Man of Vision, Strength, and Purpose
When Denyone April lost his father at just 12 years old, he silently stepped up as the man of the house for his mother and four-year-old sister, carrying that responsibility while juggling casual jobs and short courses to support his family. Waves of Change gave him something he had been searching for: the confirmation that his mindset, his vision, and his determination were enough to build the life he dreamed of. Today he is not just a participant, he is a symbol of resilience, and a reminder that what breaks some people can build others.
Denyone April – A Young Man of Vision, Strength, and Purpose
Before arriving at Waves of Change, Denyone April’s life was a stormy sea of uncertainty, hardship, and quiet determination. Matriculating in 2023, Denyone was no stranger to hard work. While many of his peers were still exploring their futures, he was juggling casual jobs and short courses to help support his family. Raised by a single mother, Denyone learned the value of sacrifice, responsibility, and perseverance early in life.
His journey was shaped by a tragic loss, the passing of his father when he was just 12 years old. That loss left a deep impact, not only on him but on the entire family. He and his father were inseparable, best friends. After his father passed, Denyone silently stepped into a leadership role, embracing the unspoken promise to become the man of the house for his mother and little sister, who was only four years old at the time.
When Denyone first heard about Waves of Change, he wasn’t sure what to expect. Rumors painted the program as intense and challenging, but with a resilient heart and a determined mindset, he showed up, ready to give it a chance. "At first, it was overwhelming," he admitted. "I didn’t know what would happen, but I decided to push through. Being here helped me realize I have a vision. I now know I have the right mindset to become the person I dream of being.”
Sitting across from Denyone’s mother, it becomes clear where his strength comes from. Her voice carries a mix of pride and emotion as she reflects on his journey. "He’s always been an outstanding child,” she says. “From Grade R, teachers would always call to share how well he was doing, whether it was projects, orals, or presentations. I remember once, while I was on my way to work, a teacher asked to add me on WhatsApp so I could hear his class presentation. I was sitting in a taxi, and I asked everyone to be quiet. When I
heard his voice, I cried. It wasn’t just a proud mother’s moment, it was knowing that, even without his father, he was becoming the man we always hoped he’d be.”
Through it all, Denyone has remained a grounded and focused young man. He avoids negativity, stays rooted in his purpose, and continues to be a role model not only at home but also in his community and soccer team. His mother says it best: “He’s a kid any parent would dream of. What happened to his father didn’t break him, it built him. He’s determined, focused, and full of heart.”
Today, Denyone is more than a participant at Waves of Change, he is a symbol of resilience. With his eyes set on the future, he carries the hopes of his family and the lessons of his past. “I’m grateful for this opportunity,” he says, “and I’m going to use it to build the life I know I’m meant to live.”
Ntombazipheli Zozo's Journey
From Fear to Mastery
When Ntombazipheli Zozo joined the Stitch Ahead programme, she was so afraid of the sound of sewing machines that she could barely sit near them, but her facilitator and classmates slowed them down and stayed beside her until she found her footing. By the end of the programme, she had not only mastered the machines but discovered her own strengths, potential, and purpose through Life Skills sessions she had initially doubted. Today, coming from an underprivileged background in the Eastern Cape, she has been offered a learnership at PEP CLO, a stepping stone toward a future she is actively building with determination and resilience.
From Fear to Mastery: Ntombazipheli Zozo's Journey
When 30-year-old Ntombazipheli Zozo received the call confirming her acceptance into the programme, she was overwhelmed with excitement and relief. Ever since passing her matric, Ntombazipheli had enrolled in college, but had never completed the course. This was different — this was her first accomplishment, and it filled her with pride and a renewed sense of purpose.
At first, the inclusion of Life Skills in the programme left her uncertain. She didn't understand its significance, but as the sessions progressed, Ntombazipheli began to see their value. Through these lessons, she discovered more about herself, her strengths, her potential, and the person she aspired to become. It was a journey of self-discovery, confidence-building, and personal growth.
One of the greatest challenges she faced was working with sewing machines. The sound initially frightened her, and she struggled to feel comfortable around the equipment. Recognising her apprehension, her facilitator and classmates provided constant support, keeping the machines at a low speed until she became accustomed to the noise. Gradually, as they increased the speed, Ntombazipheli adapted and overcame her fear. By the end of the programme, she had not only mastered the machines but also developed a genuine enjoyment in creating with them.
Throughout the programme, Ntombazipheli formed close bonds with her peers, who became more than classmates — they became friends and a support system. Together, they celebrated successes, navigated challenges, and completed projects that demonstrated their growth and teamwork.
Today, Ntombazipheli has been offered a learnership at PEP CLO, an opportunity she describes as life-changing. Coming from an underprivileged background in the Eastern Cape, this achievement represents far more than a skill — it is a stepping stone toward a brighter future, one she is actively building with determination and resilience.
Lizole Ngalimane
Rediscovering Herself, One Stitch at a Time
Lizole Ngalimane arrived at Stitch Ahead with a university degree, learnership experience, and yet a quiet feeling that she still hadn’t found her direction, she walked in during her first week not knowing a single thing about sewing, questioning whether she would cope. Patient facilitators and a supportive classroom environment helped her find her rhythm, and week by week she watched herself master techniques she never imagined she could learn. Stitch Ahead didn’t just teach her a skill, it helped her rediscover her strength, her purpose, and the belief that she is capable of far more than she ever imagined.
Lizole Ngalimane’s Journey of Growth and Confidence
Lizole Ngalimane, a dedicated mother of one, describes her life before Stitch Ahead as steady but lacking clear ambition or direction. She had completed her University studies and gained experience through various learnerships and internships across different companies. Despite these opportunities, she still felt unsure about her future and needed time to pause. After finishing her last internship, she decided to take a two month break to rest, reflect, and simply breathe. It was during this period of uncertainty and self-evaluation that she received a life-changing call from Stitch Ahead.
When Lizole joined the programme, the first week was particularly challenging. She walked in without any prior knowledge of sewing or operating sewing machines. The unfamiliar environment made her question how she would cope, and the pressure of learning something completely new felt overwhelming. As the days went by, she began to find her rhythm. The facilitators played a significant role in her progress, they were patient, understanding, and committed to ensuring that every student felt supported. Their calm, consistent guidance helped her build confidence step by step.
Over time, what once felt intimidating became second nature. Lizole started mastering the techniques, understanding the machines, and developing skills she never imagined
she would have. With each week, she saw steady improvement in her skills. Over time, she gained confidence in her abilities and felt proud of how far she had come.
Lizole reflects on her Stitch Ahead journey as both beautiful and transformative. It was not always easy, like any meaningful path, it came with challenges, frustrations, and moments of doubt. Every bump in the road taught her something valuable. She enjoyed the experience deeply, embraced the growth, and discovered a new sense of purpose and vision for her future.
Stitch Ahead didn’t just teach her sewing; it helped her rediscover herself, her strength, and her belief that she is capable of achieving more than she ever imagined.
Denyone April – A Young Man of Vision, Strength, and Purpose
Before arriving at Waves of Change, Denyone April’s life was a stormy sea of uncertainty, hardship, and quiet determination. Matriculating in 2023, Denyone was no stranger to hard work. While many of his peers were still exploring their futures, he was juggling casual jobs and short courses to help support his family. Raised by a single mother, Denyone learned the value of sacrifice, responsibility, and perseverance early in life.
His journey was shaped by a tragic loss, the passing of his father when he was just 12 years old. That loss left a deep impact, not only on him but on the entire family. He and his father were inseparable, best friends. After his father passed, Denyone silently stepped into a leadership role, embracing the unspoken promise to become the man of the house for his mother and little sister, who was only four years old at the time.
When Denyone first heard about Waves of Change, he wasn’t sure what to expect. Rumors painted the program as intense and challenging, but with a resilient heart and a determined mindset, he showed up, ready to give it a chance. "At first, it was overwhelming," he admitted. "I didn’t know what would happen, but I decided to push through. Being here helped me realize I have a vision. I now know I have the right mindset to become the person I dream of being.”
Sitting across from Denyone’s mother, it becomes clear where his strength comes from. Her voice carries a mix of pride and emotion as she reflects on his journey. "He’s always been an outstanding child,” she says. “From Grade R, teachers would always call to share how well he was doing, whether it was projects, orals, or presentations. I remember once, while I was on my way to work, a teacher asked to add me on WhatsApp so I could hear his class presentation. I was sitting in a taxi, and I asked everyone to be quiet. When I
heard his voice, I cried. It wasn’t just a proud mother’s moment, it was knowing that, even without his father, he was becoming the man we always hoped he’d be.”
Through it all, Denyone has remained a grounded and focused young man. He avoids negativity, stays rooted in his purpose, and continues to be a role model not only at home but also in his community and soccer team. His mother says it best: “He’s a kid any parent would dream of. What happened to his father didn’t break him, it built him. He’s determined, focused, and full of heart.”
Today, Denyone is more than a participant at Waves of Change, he is a symbol of resilience. With his eyes set on the future, he carries the hopes of his family and the lessons of his past. “I’m grateful for this opportunity,” he says, “and I’m going to use it to build the life I know I’m meant to live.”
Tyrese Arendse's Journey of Growth and Leadership
From Shadows to Spotlight
Tyrese Arendse arrived at Learn-to-Live carrying the weight of bullying, reading struggles, and self-doubt a quiet follower who never imagined himself standing in front of a crowd, let alone leading one. Four years later, after discovering Marimba, captaining his class, and working tirelessly to earn the trust of his peers, his principal personally asked him to serve as head boy, a dream he had carried since his very first day. When the badge was placed on his chest, it wasn’t just a title, it was proof that dedication, support, and belief in oneself can turn even the most distant dream into reality.
From Shadows to Spotlight: A Journey of Growth and Leadership
Tyrese Arendse
From the beginning of Year One, his journey was marked by both challenge and transformation. Coming from a difficult personal background that included experiences with bullying and struggles in reading comprehension, the transition to a new school environment was initially overwhelming.
He had previously attended a large school, so adapting to a smaller, more intimate setting, particularly one with both academic and Catholic components, was a significant adjustment. However, over time, he began to embrace the change. One of the most impactful turning points was discovering the Marimba group. Unlike his previous school, where music was limited to a short-term flute program, this new opportunity sparked a genuine interest. Though he had never considered himself musically inclined, encouragement from peers led him to give Marimba a try and it quickly became a passion. Music, which once felt distant, became a powerful outlet and source of joy.
The school played an instrumental role in his academic and personal development. Through consistent support and encouragement from staff, he experienced remarkable growth, especially in his language skills. Once hesitant with vocabulary and reading, he began regularly borrowing books, making time to read, and taking responsibility for his learning. The progress he made was clear, and it filled him with a growing sense of confidence.
He was also inspired by the school's diverse extracurricular offerings. The fact that his school provided opportunities similar to those offered in larger institutions made him feel proud and excited. While Marimba remained his primary focus, his teacher encouraged him to explore more, leading him to join the soccer club as well, aligning perfectly with his involvement in a local soccer team back at home. These activities made the school feel like a true second home.
What may not have been immediately visible to others was how much he had grown in leadership. At the start, he considered himself a follower, someone who often depended on others for direction. But the school nurtured his potential. When the opportunity to become class captain arose, he saw it as a chance to step outside his comfort zone. The selection process involved debates and campaigning, his first experience with such responsibilities. To his surprise and joy, he was elected by his peers with overwhelming support. The moment his name was announced, the cheering of classmates was unforgettable, and it affirmed his sense of purpose.
As he continued to grow, so did his aspirations. His dream of becoming head boy — though he preferred the term "school president" — was born in Year One and remained with him for four years. He worked tirelessly to earn the trust and respect of his peers, consistently showing commitment and integrity. When the day came and his name was called as a prefect, he was genuinely shocked. The principal, Miss Carla, personally asked if he was willing to serve as head boy. Overwhelmed, he shared that it had been his dream from the very beginning. The moment the badge was placed on his chest, it felt like a defining achievement — proof that dedication and belief in oneself can make any dream possible.
This experience taught him that no goal is too far out of reach. With hard work, support, and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Whether the ambition is large or small, even if it begins as a distant dream, it is attainable.
His message to others is simple yet powerful: just try. There is no shame in failure — what matters is the courage to try again. Today, he stands proud of how far he has come and even prouder to say, with conviction:
He is a Salesian.
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“These are just a few glimpses into the myriad success stories that unfold within the Salesian Institute Youth Projects. Each beneficiary represents a life touched, a dream realized, and a future empowered. As we celebrate these achievements, we continue our commitment to providing opportunities that transform aspirations into accomplishments, one success story at a time.”
Shafika's Journey
to Confidence
Shafieka, a resilient young woman from Cape Town, entered our Learn to Live skills training programme with a passion for culinary arts but lacked the means to pursue her dream. After completing her 4 years at SIYP with Hospitality as her vocational workshop of choice, she said: “The Salesian Institute gave me more than just skills. It gave me confidence. Now, I can proudly say that I am not just a cook; I am a chef, ready to take on the culinary world.”
Taariq's Entrepreneurial
Spirit Unleashed
Taariq, an aspiring entrepreneur, enrolled in our NEETs Youth Employability Programme. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “The Salesian Institute Youth Projects taught me not just how to run a business but how to build one from the ground up. I now have the tools and knowledge to turn my dreams into a thriving reality.”
140 Years Of Stories &
Still Impacting Lives Everyday
Tessa's Artistic
Expression Unleashed
Tessa, a talented young woman, joined our Stitch Ahead Sewing Programme. Excitedly, she expressed, “The Salesian Institute Youth Projects provided me with the platform to express my creativity freely. I now have the skills to turn my passion into a profession. It’s not just about sewing; it’s about creating a meaningful life with the skills I obtained.”
Llewellyn's Journey
from Struggle to Success
Llewellyn, a determined young man facing many psycho-social challenges in his past, participated in the Waves of Change Programme. He shared that after successful employment on a well-known Cruisline, “The Salesian Institute Youth Projects became a beacon of hope for me. The skills I gained here opened doors I never thought possible. I am not just building a career; I am building a future for myself and my family.”
