Kabelo Ntshuntshe says growing up in poverty, surrounded by negative influences like drugs and gang violence, was a challenge. “But my experience at Christel House South Africa was great,” shares the 2018 graduate. “What stands out was seeing teachers striving for excellence to equip us with knowledge to help us reach our full potential and goals.”
Kabelo admits he struggled “to find what my passion was,” but the support of his teachers and the Christel House College & Careers counselors helped him. “I found my passion for design, and I earned a diploma in visual communication design,” he says. “I currently work as a Graphic Designer for VF Exclamation, a marketing and advertising agency.” Kabelo’s success has impacted his family, especially his two younger sisters. “They see firsthand it is possible to ‘make it out’ through hard work, perseverance, and believing in yourself. You will reach your goals no matter how hard everything seems, or obstacles being thrown at you.” Kabelo offers advice to the next generation of Christel House students. “Do not allow your situation to define who you are or where your life is going,” he says. “Go after your dreams because you are the only person accountable for your success. No one else will do it for you.”