From Participant to Leader: Welcoming Thembi Mtimkulu to the IAWA Team

We’re excited to welcome Thembi Mtimkulu to the I Am, We Are (IAWA) team! Her journey with IAWA began in 2015 as a curious Grade 8 student, and over the years, the program helped her unlock her potential and find her purpose. Now, as a full-time team member, she’s eager to give back and inspire the next generation. Read on to learn more about Thembi’s story and the impact she hopes to make!

Can you share your journey with I Am, We Are (IAWA)? What inspired you to join the program, and how has it shaped you over the years?

I stumbled upon I Am We Are (IAWA) in 2015, during my Grade 8 year. With no particular expectations, I joined the program out of curiosity. Little did I know, that first camp in September would be the starting point of an incredible journey. It was there that I met Meisha, and the engaging activities and lessons not only captivated me but also ignited a passion within.

Over the years, IAWA has played a transformative role in shaping me into the person I am today. The program's unwavering support and guidance helped me discover my strengths, tap into my potential, and develop a sense of purpose. IAWA empowered me to believe in myself, my dreams, and my capabilities.

One of the most significant impacts of IAWA has been the realization that I am capable of achieving greatness through dedication and hard work. The program helped me unlock my full potential, providing me with direction and clarity about my future and my place within the community. IAWA has been more than just a program – it's been a catalyst for growth, a source of inspiration, and a reminder that I am part of something bigger than myself. I am forever grateful for the experiences, lessons, and connections I've made through IAWA.

What are some of the most valuable lessons or skills you gained from IAWA, and how do you see them helping you in your new role?

.Through my experience with I Am We Are (IAWA), I gained invaluable insights into the power of teamwork. I learned that collaborative efforts not only facilitate timely completion of tasks but also foster a sense of unity and shared purpose. Effective communication, in particular, proved to be a crucial element in resolving conflicts and promoting harmony within the group.

Moreover, IAWA taught me that success rarely comes easily; it demands dedication, perseverance, and hard work. The lessons and skills I acquired through the program have been instrumental in my transition to my new role. As we work in teams, I've found that my prior experience has equipped me with the ability to collaborate seamlessly, ensuring a smooth adjustment.

What excites you the most about transitioning from an IAWA participant to a full-time team member?

What excites me most about this transition is the opportunity to contribute to IAWA's growth and success. I'm eager to invest my efforts in helping the organization achieve its goals."I'm also thrilled to share my personal story with the upcoming youth who will be joining the program. As someone who has directly benefited from IAWA, I believe my testimony will serve as a powerful inspiration to them, demonstrating the tangible impact the program can have on individuals."

Now that you're part of the IAWA team, what impact do you hope to make on the program and the young people coming through it?

I will stand as a testament to the fact that anything is possible when you combine determination, hard work, and a willingness to learn. To the youth who will join the program, I want to assure them that they will have a support system that believes in them and their potential. IAWA will be more than just a program to them- it will be a community that will uplift, guide, and empower them to reach their dreams.