Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine (DCM) partnered with Devine Training Academy to empower 40 locals with free sewing and beauty technician training.
The six-week accredited portable community skills training, in both sewing and beauty technology, was facilitated by Devine Training Academy and sponsored by DCM.

The group graduated at Molma Lodge in Steelpoort on November 14.

Attending the graduation was the DCM’s socio-economic development team, top management of Devine, and representatives of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). Several motivational speakers encouraged the graduates.

DCM’s Tshidiso Seikaneng said the portable skills initiative aims to develop the communities and create job opportunities. She urged the graduates to work hard and generate income for themselves. “We are looking to see your businesses grow and flourish. Go out there and improve your lives.”
NUM’s Patrick Mokoena added: “Let the certificates bestowed on you work for you. Respect your clients and make use of every opportunity. Never stop learning – believe in yourself and make a difference in your communities.”

Among the guests who shared messages of support was entrepreneur Shoki Ntobeng of MiniME Mobile Spa. Ntobeng presented a profound and motivating address. “Please don’t be shy. Go out there and seek funding from organisations like the Small Enterprise Development Agency and the National Youth Development Agency. They have assisted many entrepreneurs in Limpopo and Ga-Sekhukhune,” she said. “There are opportunities galore – knock on every door, seek funding and you will succeed.”

Ntobeng added that she is available to offer support and guidance when the graduates experience challenges. “The pie is big enough for everyone to share. Let’s dedicate our time to our businesses in sewing and beauty.”

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Representing Devine Training Academy was Kgaogelo Maponya, who thanked DCM for giving them an opportunity to sharpen the graduates’ skills. “It was a team effort – we are all grateful to DCM for making it possible,” she said.

“The facilitators worked hard to instill knowledge. We would like to thank our graduates for their dedication and willingness to learn. I am optimistic they will excel in their future endeavours.”
One of the graduates, Irene Phetla, told guests that a number of the dresses and graduation gowns worn at the ceremony were designed by the students.

“This training has been beneficial to all of us. When we came here we couldn’t operate a sewing machine, but today we are experts.” She added that she already has three clients who want her to design dresses for them. Phetla pledged support to her fellow graduates. “We will recommend our beauty technicians to our friends and families. They are the ones who applied our make-up and did our nails today, proving their skills and ability to handle big events.”

Each graduate received a starter kit to help launch their businesses. These included portable sewing machines, fabric for golf shirts, sewing thread, buttons and much more equipment. The beauty technicians received make-up and nail kits.