Khomanani Primary School held a Career Day Expo for Grade Seven learners in Zone 2, Diepkloof, on October 16.

The event was organised and coordinated by educator Rebecca Mabaso to inspire learners and show them that success is achievable through dedication and hard work.

The expo forms part of the Grade Seven Life Orientation curriculum. Learners were tasked with researching their chosen career paths, writing a report, and presenting their findings to the class for formal assessment.

Dressed in full attire representing their future professions, learners presented memorised speeches based on their research. Careers represented included chefs, actors, pilots, IT specialists, fashion designers, teachers, and medical doctors.

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Various industry professionals, including Diepkloof residents and school alumni, attended to share their journeys.

Among the guests was Nom-T Dladla, a Birnam Business College fashion design graduate born and raised in Diepkloof. She is the founder of UJU Designs and has showcased her work at Soweto Fashion Week.

Visual artist and art coach Alex Maswanganyi, who also attended Khomanani Primary, returned to motivate the learners.

He expressed gratitude to his former primary school teacher, Constance Siphaphathi, for first nurturing his drawing talent.

“Through my work with Yunus Emre Enstitüsü and international Maarif Schools, I had opportunities to contribute to cultural exchange and art education,” Maswanganyi said.

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“I founded Alex Maswanganyi Art to use art as a tool for creativity, inspiration, and youth empowerment. My mission is to encourage young people to believe in their abilities and discover their talents.”

Film producer, director, and scriptwriter Luzuko Yafele, who has worked on television productions including Amalanga Awafani, Empini, and Uzalo, also shared insights with the learners.

HR specialist and school alumna Elizabeth Mabaso delivered a motivational address to learners and staff, while project manager Noel Mdingi also graced the event.

Mabaso emphasised the importance of having local representation at the expo.

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“I think what made the day so powerful was having real people from real professional fields, who are currently based in Diepkloof and went to the same school, come and show our learners that it is possible, as per our theme: ‘The future starts now,’” Mabaso said.

“The day would not have been possible without the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to give special thanks to my colleague Florence Mthombeni for the support. I also want to thank our distinguished guests, the teaching staff, and the learners.”