In the Northern Cape town of Loeriesfontein, the journeys of Maleting Hugo and Anna Pieters illustrate the synergy between educational opportunities and community support.
IN THE Northern Cape town of Loeriesfontein, the educational journeys of Maleting Hugo and Anna Pieters are a true illustration of the positive synergy between educational opportunities and community support.
Their stories, underpinned by the Loeriesfontein and Khobab wind farms’ bursary programme, serve as an inspiration to the local youth, showcasing how determination, coupled with the right resources, can lead to significant community contributions and personal development.
Hugo is now a social auxiliary worker at the SA National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca) in Loeriesfontein, while Pieters has transitioned from a teaching position at Loeriesfontein Primary School to the Department of Education.
The bursary initiative is designed to provide access to tertiary education to community learners who are in matric or already pursuing full-time studies at a university or college.
It has proven to be instrumental in offering invaluable educational and skills development opportunities for aspiring individuals.
Their achievements not only highlight personal success but also emphasise the critical role of educational support in nurturing the potential within a community.
As exemplars of what can be achieved through ambition and community assistance, Hugo and Pieters’ experiences serve as an encouragement to the youth of Loeriesfontein to pursue their aspirations, demonstrating that with the right support, they too can make meaningful contributions to the development of their community.
Hugo attributed her professional progress to the bursary programme that she received support from.
She said she studied at Hugenote College in Wellington.
“The support from the wind farms was instrumental in my studies, providing me with essential skills and strengthening my drive to contribute positively to our community,” she explained.
Pieters similarly reflected on the impact of the bursary on her career trajectory.
She expressed her gratitude to the foundation for her education.
”The bursary facilitated my completion of a B.Ed Foundation Phase at CPUT Wellington Campus, a journey that was transformative both personally and professionally.
“I am grateful for the foundation as my education and community support was laid as I embark on this new chapter,” said Pieters.
Vanessa Fredericks, the economic development manager for Loeriesfontein and Khobab wind farms, explained that they fund the bursary programme as part of their broader socio-economic development initiative.
Fredericks said the Loeriesfontein and Khobab wind farms’ bursary programme is a pivotal element in continuing to support the educational and professional aspirations of the community’s young people, fostering a culture of success and communal upliftment.
“These success stories highlight the importance of investing in local talent and nurturing community-driven initiatives. As these women continue to make strides in their respective fields, they serve as inspiring role models for generations to come,” said Fredericks.
