Thandazile Mokoena, a 48-year-old entrepreneur, is making waves in the SADC region through her company, African Golden Hands.
Established in September 2017, this skills development institution has transformed the lives of over 5,000 individuals in South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia by providing vocational training in various areas such as upholstery, detergents, skincare products, food sauces, carpentry, refrigerator maintenance, and food packaging.
Mokoena’s journey began in her birthplace, Matsulu, a town located outside Nelspruit in Mpumalanga.
Her battle with depression led her to create African Golden Hands as a therapeutic pursuit, which soon evolved into a passion for empowering people across the SADC region.
The academy, open to individuals of all ages, actively contributes to the fight against unemployment by equipping people with essential skills to support their families and strengthen their communities.
Embarking on a tour across the SADC region, Mokoena is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and expertise with others. Her efforts have paid off significantly, with more than 70% of her trainees now successfully operating their businesses.
The work of African Golden Hands exemplifies the transformative power of skills development and its potential to uplift communities and fuel economic growth.
Reflecting on her journey, Mokoena shares, “When I started African Golden Hands back in 2017, I never anticipated the profound impact it would have on the lives of thousands across the SADC region.
What began as a means to overcome my personal battle with depression has evolved into my life’s work, empowering individuals and fostering positive change.”
Mokoena’s determination and passion serve as a powerful reminder that one person can make a tangible difference in the world.
As African Golden Hands continues to grow and touch the lives of countless more individuals, Mokoena eagerly anticipates the future with hope and optimism.
