Dream big, aim high

AS WE celebrate Youth Month (June),one is reminded of the challenges, among them unemployment and substance abuse, faced by young people today. Despite these shortcomings, I am encouraged by the phrase “not all is doom and gloom”. As a proud former bursary holder and current employee of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), I have a positive story to tell.

During my high school years, I participated in science expos and science competitions at Diazville High School, as I always had aspirations to follow a water-related sector career.

I only realise now that I was not alone in my quest to improve my career prospects.

These are aspirations that many young people of my age had but could not realise, due to the many obstacles and challenges that I have already mentioned.

Today, I can comfortably say I’m a living testimony of how perseverance, dedication and drive could lead to positive career prospects.

It all began in 2008, when I entered one of the then Department of Water Affairs 20/20 Vision programme’s competitions, called Aqua Enduro- A, aimed at Grade 11 learners with an interest in mathematics, science and engineering.

Little did I know that being one of the winners would unlock doors for me to study towards a National Diploma in Environmental Management.

Following the completion of my diploma, I received an internship with the department, which afforded me an opportunity to get practical experience.

Today, I am happy employee of the department as a scientific technician, under the Directorate Regulations. I appeal to all young people who aspire to achieve great things in life to dream big, aim high and never silence your determinations.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank DWS for affording me a bursary to further my studies. This is a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget. “Water is Life, Sanitation is Dignity.” Margo Adonis Scientific Technician: Department of Water and Sanitation Western Cape