POLOKWANE – Teacher Leah Mashaba (54) is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners at Shalom Day Care.

Mashaba said she joined the school two years ago with the desire to inspire young minds.

Soft-spoken, warm and naturally nurturing, she exudes a genuine love for her work – something both learners and colleagues feel daily.

She says teaching in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) phase is very fulfilling. “I love teaching ECD not only because the children are at such a cute age, but because witnessing how intelligent they are is truly amazing,” she said.

She acknowledges, however, that the profession is not without its challenges. “Sometimes parents can be difficult, failing to understand that we share the responsibility of shaping their children’s future,” she explained.

Despite these hurdles, her passion for working with young learners remains steadfast. For Mashaba, the joy of teaching far outweighs the challenges, and she embraces her role with dedication and grace.

Her commitment is a powerful reminder of the impact one teacher can have on the development of young children.

She encourages fellow ECD practitioners to remain grounded in love and purpose.

“Do your work with love and patience. Challenges are there, but be calm, respectful and humble. Being an ECD teacher is not an easy thing, but above all, love your job. Prepare your daily lessons properly and develop those young minds intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally, and you will see that things become much easier,” she added.