Job brings hope, stability to young man after years of rejection

After juggling part-time and temporary jobs, 24-year-old Ruan van Aarde has finally secured his first permanent job, something he said still feels surreal.

Ruan, recently featured in the Boksburg Advertiser in a story highlighting his battle with long-term unemployment, said his life changed shortly after the article was published. He received a job offer from Powercare, a call centre in Edenvale that handles support calls for household appliances still under warranty.

“I felt like jumping, I was so excited. This job has opened my eyes to a brighter future. After so many years of struggling, I finally have something permanent, and it feels amazing.”

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Ruan’s role involves helping customers when their appliances break down while under warranty. The calls come through to his department, where they guide customers through resolving their issues. It’s work he finds rewarding and purposeful.

“It might sound simple, but for me, it means everything. Having somewhere to go each day, earning a steady income, and finally feeling secure. It’s a huge shift from the uncertainty I’ve lived with for so long.

He credits the recent article featuring his story as a turning point.
“That feature changed my life. I had no idea someone out there would read it and think, ‘I want to give this guy a chance’. But that’s exactly what happened.”

Ruan wants to use his story to inspire others who might be in the same position he once was.
“I know what it feels like to wake up every day and try again, only to get no replies. But I’m proof that things can turn around. Don’t give up after a few rejections. Life has its ups and downs, and eventually something will give.”

To those still struggling to find employment, Ruan has a heartfelt message: “Never give up. The moment you do, it’s like you’ve admitted defeat.

Just keep pushing. People deserve a chance, and I hope what happened to me happens to someone else out there.”

As he settles into his new role, Ruan is already looking to the future, and for the first time in a long while, it looks bright.
“I’m proud of myself for not giving up,” he added.
“And I’m so thankful for the opportunity. This is just the beginning.”

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