Climbing the steps to the family flat in the municipal-owned Aloe Court, Actonville, Pravin Sia Ricky James noticed the little specks of beauty in his surroundings.

Growing up in a devout Hindu household, he would often forego breakfast to drape and better adorn the deities who watched over his parental home.

During his formative years, Pravin’s teachers expressed concern about his learning development, but with gentle guidance and support, he graduated to high school.

“Due to the number of learners in each class, it was difficult for the teachers to focus only on me. The educational support I was used to had fallen away and my ambitions started to dwindle,” said the New Modder nail technician.

“At the end of Grade Nine, I dropped out of school, facing uncertainty about what the future holds.”

Smiling, the 25-year-old said opportunity came knocking at his door.

“I was offered a job as a cashier at a convenience store. I couldn’t believe that someone would trust a high school dropout to handle money and work with customers.”

“I was driven by the pursuit of becoming a contributing member of society and gave it my best, casting doubt and uncertainty out of my mind.”

He soon heard that an initiative was launched to recruit 15 young women in Actonville to form part of a Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) accredited training programme, specialising in becoming qualified nail technicians.

“I have always been interested in the beauty industry. I approached the facilitator to motivate why I should be included as a candidate,” Pravin said, flashing a coy smile.

“To my surprise, I was enrolled! I was in my element and grateful for yet another opportunity to grow.”

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He went on to attain a further qualification in make-up application, specialising in bridal make-up as well as other related short courses.

Standing on the cusp of launching his own nail bar, the micro- entrepreneur already has aspirations to pay the blessings forward.

“When my father passed away, my mom did everything in her power to provide for my brother and me – often making sacrifices in order to meet our needs.

“She never complained or expected anything in return. Our happiness was her primary focus.

“In honour of her and the values she instilled in us, my business plan includes goodwill.”

Pravin explains that every client who takes a seat at his table will enable him to give back to the community.

“Many of our city’s elderly residents are living on the breadline; there is no money for the small luxuries. I envision visiting them, offering them a little pamper,” he said, his face radiating as he pictures his desire.

“Like my mother, single mothers neglect self-care, something which, if possible, could leave them feeling rejuvenated and able to face another day. I would like to reach out to them, too.”

But like an infomercial, his vision exceeds the ordinary as he reveals that once established, he would endeavour to offer training to passionate aspiring beauticians.

“I was given a chance when the odds were stacked against me, I want to help others to follow their passion,” he said.

“Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, I had to go through a metamorphosis of personal growth to become who I am today. I want to inspire others to bravely face their challenges to emerge as the heroes of their own lives.”

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