Where there is dough, there is hope: A story of strength and second chances
A Westonaria training centre helped a determined Soweto mother turn hardship into hope, transforming her from a community caregiver into a qualified and confident baker.
In Zuurbekom, a local development centre is quietly changing lives, and one of its proud success stories is 49-year-old Amelia Makwakwa from Protea Glen, Soweto.
Once an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) beneficiary caring for the sick and vulnerable in her community, Amelia is today a qualified baker at the Philani Development Centre.
For years, she dedicated herself to serving others, bathing ill community members, collecting medication on their behalf, and assisting child-headed households. Building a career of her own was not something she had imagined at the time.
That changed when she began volunteering at the Philani Development Centre in Zuurbekom, Westonaria. The centre, funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, has been empowering communities through skills development and training programmes since 2001.
Initially, Amelia assisted in the bakery by helping distribute scones to homeless people in the mornings. What began as a simple act of service soon became a passion.
“I fell in love with the smell of baking dough and cakes,” she recalled.
Recognising her enthusiasm and potential, the centre’s founder, Phillys Malope, offered her the opportunity to receive formal baking training, an opportunity that would reshape her future.
Also read: Friday night boxing event postponed
From hardship to hope
At the time, Amelia was navigating significant personal challenges. After her husband left, she was left to raise her three children alone, without financial support.
“I get emotional when I look back. I was going through a lot, but Mama Phyllis welcomed me with open arms. Through faith and determination, I pushed through,” she continued.
Through hard work and perseverance, she developed her skills and confidence. Today, she operates industrial ovens, measures ingredients with precision, and helps manage customer orders. Together with her team, she produces a range of cakes supplied to businesses and individual customers.
The stipend she received during her training helped her support her children during difficult times. She now proudly shares that her eldest son is employed, her second-born is studying at university, and her youngest is in high school.
“Honestly, I never thought government programmes could move you from zero to hero,” she says.
Also read: Kom vier moeder-dogter-bande en steun Wes-Randse Skool
Despite travelling long distances daily and starting work early to meet delivery deadlines, Amelia remains passionate about baking. The skill has not only provided income but also restored her dignity and self-confidence. She also supplements her earnings by baking for neighbours, friends and family.
Phyllis says Amelia’s journey reflects resilience and determination.
“She has made her children proud and shown them that anything is possible. Considering where she comes from, she has done magic. She is a true imbokodo, a strong woman,” she added.
From caring for the sick in her community to becoming a skilled pastry chef, Amelia’s story stands as proof that with opportunity, support and determination, it is never too late to rebuild and rise.
