24/07/2025
🎉 Celebrating 20 Years of Purpose, Passion, and Challenges!
Yoh, where do I even begin?
It’s hard to believe that this year marks 20 years since I first stood in front of a group of young people, shaking in my cheap shoes (don’t judge, I was just starting out), trying to explain what “self-awareness” is. That moment, back in 2005 through loveLife and Youth Connection Organisation, was the beginning of what would become a two-decade-long love story with community development and facilitation.
From dusty classrooms in the townships to air-conditioned boardrooms and platforms (and not forgetting dodgy B&Bs with suspicious towels 😅),
Let me tell you — being a freelance facilitator looks nice on the outside. People see the hotel check-ins, the different cars clients book for us, the flights, the “wow you’re living your best life” comments. But hey, don’t be fooled! Facilitation is not a vacation. It’s a calling that comes with unpaid invoices, late nights, airport delays, and sometimes, sleeping with one eye open because you’re not sure if the guesthouse door really locks. 😂
Behind the scenes? Hectic!
Facilitators are researchers, planners, admin assistants, debt collectors, marketers, and sometimes marriage counselors (to themselves) — all in one body! You balance life with work, and your family sees you as a “ghost supplier of groceries” because you’re never home but the fridge is full. Your kids ask why the Wi-Fi is always fast, but you're always on a Zoom call 😅
We don't talk enough about the emotional weight — the pressure of giving every client your best energy (even when the last one left you drained), the long nights spent updating PowerPoint slides, chasing payments, and Googling “latest trends in facilitation” at 2am with one eye open.
I remember back in 2005, I told Pastor Mahlangu, "I see myself speaking in a hall full of people inspiring them"* because I loved public speaking so much. Some thought I was dreaming out loud, but I knew what I wanted. I didn’t wait for people to understand me — I understood myself.
Fast forward to today — I am not only a Facilitator, but also an Assessor, Moderator, and a Community Development Practitioner by knowledge, experience, skills and qualification. 💪
I am also a husband and father, and that makes the journey even more meaningful. Yes, they see less of me sometimes, but I’m working hard to build a future where my story becomes someone else’s inspiration.
When I started, many didn’t “get it” — and that’s okay. Some supported me, some doubted me (from a place of love), and some simply watched. But I kept showing up. For myself. For my purpose. For the communities I serve.
To the new facilitators: The journey is not always glamorous, but it’s deeply rewarding. Stay grounded. Stay learning. Stay human.
And to my fellow facilitation warriors: I see you. I honour you. I laugh with you through the pain, admin, and awkward participant questions. 😅
Here’s to 20 years of growth, grit, and grace. And guess what? I’m just getting started!
