There’s a unique kind of transformation that only happens when we step outside our daily routines and into unfamiliar places. Travel is about excitement, adventure, and newness. But it can also be unsettling, unpredictable, and even uncomfortable. And that’s exactly where the growth happens.

I still remember arriving in Johannesburg in 2009—eager, wide-eyed, and determined. I was working with the Enablis Entrepreneurial Network, supporting small and medium enterprises, but what struck me immediately wasn’t just the energy of the city or the potential of its youth. It was the quiet despair. Young people with dreams as big as mine were trapped in a cycle of structural inequality, limited opportunities, and a system that too often failed them. That year changed everything for me.

Mentorship is more than just guidance, it's a bridge. A bridge between experience and aspiration, between where someone is and where they hope to go. It connects people, yes, but it also connects possibilities. What makes mentorship so powerful is that it’s meant to be temporary. It’s one of the few relationships built with the goal of growth and eventual independence. In this dynamic, the mentor serves as a steady guide; someone who’s been there, who knows the terrain, and who wants to help others navigate it too.

On February 22, 2025, IAWA hosted a Career Clinic, an event designed to support its alumni in their career journeys. The day was filled with valuable insights, expert guidance, and networking opportunities, leaving a lasting impact on the attendees. The event brought together career professionals and speakers who shared their expertise and experiences with the alumni. The day's activities included speed networking, one-on-one sessions with mentors, and goal-setting exercises.

We’re excited to welcome Pheyello Tshepo Namane—who goes by Tshepo—to the I Am, We Are (IAWA) team! Tshepo first joined IAWA in 2021 as a Youth Facilitator, helping young people navigate challenges beyond home and school. Through his journey, he has developed skills in coaching, leadership, and empathic listening—tools he now brings to his new role. Read on to learn more about Tshepo’s journey and the impact he hopes to make!

"During our visit to Hope4Kasi for community service, we cleaned the yard and painted a house for grandparents. This experience taught me the importance of helping the community. It enriches your life, familiarizes you with your community, and connects you with people and ideas that can positively impact your perspective for the rest of your life," shares IAWA Ambassador Tlotlego.

"They shared the harsh realities we might encounter, but the lesson was clear: no matter how challenging it gets, never give up, study hard, and stay true to ourselves," recants IAWA Ambassador, Masetshaba as she reflects on her visit to the University of Pretoria during the capstone trip.

"IAWA is such a special place for young people like me. We’ve witnessed young people flourishing through opportunities to develop their social and life skills leading them to deal effectively with the demands of everyday life." Hear from IAWA Ambassador Sibongile as she reflects on her experiences in IAWA and on the Capstone Trip.