15 Mar A Journey of Transformation
We are thrilled to share an inspiring success story from the heart of Vaalwater, where a young girl named Sally Mogapi embarked on a life-changing journey through the Welgevonden Environmental Awareness Programme (WEAP). This programme has been making waves in empowering individuals to become stewards of the environment.
Sally’s journey began when she received an invitation from Moji Kitsi (WEAP Coordinator), and Dr Cheryl Ogilvie from Tshwane University of Technology (manager of the Ndumo Community Project) to participate in environmental education. Little did she know that this opportunity would pave the way for a remarkable educational adventure.
“I got the news from Moji Kitsi and Dr Cheryl Ogilvie when I was invited by Moji Kitsi to assist in environmental education at Ndumo,” Sally recounts.
She first assisted at Ndumo, then had to write a test, and subsequently got admitted to the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC). Transported straight from her home in Vaalwater to the Southern African Wildlife College by Moji Kitsi himself, Sally embraced the course with enthusiasm, fulfilling a lifelong dream of studying the intricacies of conservation.
“I really enjoyed studying these courses, as it was the thing that I wanted to study in my life. All the courses I did I enjoyed them and I was also applying the knowledge and skills that I was taught by Moji Kitsi since high school,” Sally reflects.
Her journey through Foundational Learning Competence (FLC), Environmental Education NQF Level 4, Responsible Resource Use Management NQF Level 5, Conservation Leadership NQF Level 4, and finally, Eco Ranger NQF Level 4, culminated in a graduation ceremony on 12 December 2023.
Sally Mogapi’s graduation at Southern African Wildlife College ©Moji Kitsi (WEAP Coordinator).
“I just want to thank Moji Kitsi for what he has done in my life and by introducing WEAP to me. I always wanted someone to give me the skills and knowledge of conservation, and now I have gained more skills and experience of the bush because of him, not forgetting Dr Cheryl Ogilvie,” expresses Sally gratefully.
The courses not only equipped Sally with valuable knowledge but also ignited a passion within her to effect change in her community. She is determined to reshape mindsets and attitudes towards the environment and wildlife.
“Studying these courses have changed my mind set a lot, and I am willing to work and change all the mindsets and the attitude of my community towards their environment and wildlife. I want to continue helping Moji Kitsi in building the mindsets of the young ones and introduce them to nature as he did to me, all thanks to WEAP.” Sally affirms.
Sally’s story exemplifies the transformative power of education and mentorship. As we celebrate her achievements, let us also acknowledge the dedication of Moji Kitsi and the Welgevonden Environmental Awareness Programme in shaping the future conservation leaders of our community.
