I first met Tshepo van Roos when I taught him English in grade 9. For one of his speeches he spoke about wanting to become a pilot. I was impressed with his strong determination and desire to achieve his dreams.
Tshepo then left the school where I was teaching to go attend one of the only aeronautical schools in Waterkloof. I lost contact with Tshepo and then like most people today, I ‘found’ him on Facebook. I was thrilled to see that he had achieved his dreams, and that he was now a successful pilot with South African Airways. I continued to follow his career closely on Facebook.
When Tshepo agreed to come and address the Abbotts students about what it takes to become a pilot, as well as all the obstacles you may face along the way, he brought along a young lady, Tumi Katisi, to share her inspiring story with my students.
Tumi won the 94.7 Christmas wish in 2012, whereby they paid for her training to become a commercial pilot. Tumi shared her very inspiring story on overcoming all the obstacles placed in her way.
Abbotts students are now all fired up to become pilots, and as we continue our career exploration in May, I trust that many other students will have a clearer picture on how to achieve their dreams.
Trish Hunter, LO coordinator, Abbotts College
