Security guards perform the critical duty of maintaining safety and protecting people around the clock. This means long shifts, both in the day and at night. During their off-duty shifts, Kekana and Makhubele took advantage of the opportunity to further their studies through the immense support of the learning and development section at UP. They encouraged each other to use the time to study. “A dream that one dreams alone is only a dream but a dream that you dream together becomes reality,” says Kekana, referring to the friendship support that he shared with Makhubele.  

“We ensure that personal development opportunities are accessible to all employees across various levels, and we are proud of Kekana and Makhubele’s academic success,” says Enid Thue, the learning and development practitioner at UP.

“At first, I wanted to enroll for Occupational Health and Safety Management, but due to financial challenges, I altered my career choice to security management, which is in high demand in nowadays,” says Makhubele, sharing his career journey. “Studying and working at the same time is not easy, especially when you’re working from six to six. I used to spend three days on duty, but when I knocked off, I went to the library and studied, before reporting for duty the next morning. Through the support of my friend, we soldiered on and succeeded. For me, success means:

       S – ee your goal.

       U – nderstand the obstacle.

       C– reate a positive mental picture.

       C – lear your mind of self-doubt.

       E – mbrace the challenge.

      S – tay on track.

      S – how the world you can do it.

According to Kekana, opportunities are waiting for everyone willing to find them. “I enrolled for a National Diploma in Security Management because I’m the first point of contact and the face of the institution. I attribute our success to the support of our Director, Mr Johan Boonzaaier; Deputy Director Operations, Mr Phillip Mmusi; Mrs Enid Thue, the learning and development practitioner and Dr Botha, along with the entire learning and development (HR) team.

“This team rallied behind us to ensure we succeeded in our studies. I was further motivated by my friendship with Makhubele. Working and studying simultaneously has never been an easy task for me. We studied together, and supported each other in writing assignments and examinations. We worked extra hours after our normal work schedules, focusing on our goal of graduating in an institution of higher learning – this meant many heavy, sleepless nights. Due to COVID-19 we had to write our exam online, which was an immense challenge. Regardless, UP’s contribution brought positive change in my life. I’ve met the best people here, friends who provide a solid foundation for success. My motto is:

Behind you – all your memories.

Before you – all your dreams.

Around you – all who love you.

Within you – all you need.