WHEN Sinazo Mbunjana arrived in Durban from the Eastern Cape in 2015, she dreamed of working with children and becoming a teacher. Today, the single mother manages an ECD centre serving 42 children in Malacca Road Informal Settlement — a journey she describes as a dream come true.

Mbunjana came to Durban to help her aunt care for her child, but was determined to build a future for herself. After working as a security controller, her opportunity came in 2019 when The Seed Fund announced plans to open an ECD centre in Malacca.

“I love children, so I applied for the job,” she recalled.

Also read: From job loss to putting food on the table

She began teaching in 2020, despite having no formal teaching experience. With support from The Seed Fund, she studied for a teaching diploma in Early Childhood Development at Caversham Educational Institute while working at the centre.

Today, the ECD has grown from one classroom and two teachers to four classrooms serving 42 children, with a team of four staff members.

Supporting Her Community

Mbunjana’s role goes beyond the classroom. Living in the same community as the families she serves means she understands the challenges they face and often supports parents and children outside normal working hours.

“I understand their backgrounds and the homes they come from. That helps me provide better for the children when they are under my care,” she said.

As a single mother raising her 17-year-old son, Mbunjana also understands the pressures women face.

“Women must be independent. Use skills to further yourselves. Learn a skill if you don’t have one,” she said, urging women to support rather than judge one another.

Also read: Intern helps fuel young explorers at Umhlanga Lagoon

The future is bright

Mbunjana hopes to one day open her own school and take what she has learnt back to the Eastern Cape, where she sees a strong need for ECD centres.

“I want to take what I learn here and apply it in the Eastern Cape,” she said.

For Women’s Month, her message is simple: women should continue learning, supporting one another and pursuing their dreams.

“I always wanted to be a teacher. I didn’t know what to expect. When I take a look at what I have achieved, it’s a dream come true and I’m grateful.”

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook ,X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here