A Catalyst for Change in Thornhill
Name: Zimkhitha Kilimani
Programme: Catalyst
Area: Thornhill
Thornhill, a small town in Kouga Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, is witnessing the remarkable impact of the Catalyst program through the inspiring journey of Zimkhitha Kilimani. At just 26 years old, Zimkhitha exemplifies the power of youth development programs and how it can transform communities from within.
Driven by her genuine concern for the challenges faced by young people in Thornhill, particularly issues like teenage pregnancy and limited access to information and resources, Zimkhitha enrolled herself into the Catalyst program in August. Since then, she has been fuelled by a passion to extend her learnings from the program to equip and inspire her peers with the knowledge they need to overcome these obstacles. And more than that, to see and dream beyond their immediate circumstances
Apart from her ambitions to be an individual that brings about change in her community, she expresses how the Catalyst program has been instrumental in opening her eyes to a world of possibilities she never knew existed. Through the program, she discovered opportunities like the Amandla Omoya Trust Bursary and Corporate Skills training, experiences that have equipped her with the tools and confidence to become a valuable resource for her community.
Zimkhitha credits the Catalyst program with sharpening her problem-solving skills, amongst other skills which is an asset in any workplace. She now possesses the confidence and marketing prowess; she is now better equipped to navigate the job market effectively and seize opportunities with determined enthusiasm.
Having developed a clear vision for her future, she enrolled for the Glicam NVC accreditation, to complete a qualification in Hospitality. Through her reasearch and discovering the booming potential of the tourism industry, she sees this career path as an opportunity to not only be a part of something exciting but also to inject her innovative ideas and transform the industry from within.
“The program has brought so much light and wisdom into my life,” says Zimkhitha. “It has taught me to see things differently, especially when it comes to my educational aspirations. I’ve learned to actively seek out information and inspiration to become a better person. The Catalyst program has transformed how I see myself. I now know I have the power to make a positive impact in my community. It’s my responsibility to focus on developing myself and my community,” she adds with unwavering determination.
Zimkhitha Kilimani’s story reflects many other young people who need such opportunities to make their lives and those of their communities better. It is a testament to the power of the Catalyst program and the potential it unlocks within young people to unlock their inherent assets.
We shine our spotlight on Zimkitha and many other young people who have the courage to take a leap of faith and change their circumstances. Her dedication to her community and her pursuit of self-improvement serves as an inspiration to us all.
Let her journey be a beacon of hope, urging others to embrace opportunities, empower themselves, and become the change they wish to see in the world.
