Yamkelani Hodo, Class of 2021

Systems Implementation and Junior Software Developer

Raised in Langa, Yamkelani faced the challenges of growing up in a household of nine with both parents unemployed. Today, he is a Systems Implementation and Junior Software Developer. His journey from Christel House South Africa student to tech innovator shows how quality education and holistic support can break the cycle of poverty and create brighter futures.

Growing up in a township, Yamkelani had limited access to opportunities. In Grade 7, he joined Christel House South Africa where he received much more than academic support, but also guidance, mentorship, and access to resources that ignited his potential.

At Christel House SA, Yamkelani found his passion for coding and robotics. A highlight of his high school journey was winning the provincial robotics competition and representing the Western Cape nationally.

Reflecting on his growth, Yamkelani shares:
“Growing up in a township like Langa can easily put you in a cycle of poverty and restrict your ability to dream bigger. I would not have made it in life without Christel House SA’s support. The school exposed me to a lot of new things and opened my eyes to a brighter future filled with opportunities.”

Yamkelani hasn’t only launched a successful career but also started his own youth empowerment agency. The initiative helps school-going youth earn an income and gain entrepreneurial skills, giving them an advantage in today’s challenging economy.

Help us change more lives like Yamkelani’s. Click here to donate and invest in the future of South Africa’s youth: https://sa.christelhouse.org/donate/