Ms Hlumisa Kwinana – St Annes Primary School
- What is your current role within the education space?
I teach the intermediate learners/phase. I teach language, life skills and creative arts. I am a chairperson and serve in a committee for children experiencing learning barriers. Besides being an educator, I also advocate for children’s rights as part of the Plan International Organization based in the UK.
- What inspired you to follow this career path?
Teaching is a noble profession; a teacher lives a scholarly life and could go as high as one would want. I also wanted to make a difference in students’ lives. As an arts person, I have always wanted to shape the lives of young people. While I was growing up, I had role models that inspired me in so many ways.
- What do you love most about what you do?
I love Interacting with parents and social workers on a daily basis. These parties play a pivotal role educating a child. I’m also passionate about instilling discipline and promoting skills.
- What attributes, do you feel, are important for success in your role?
Determination and perseverance are the key to my success as an educator. I have learnt a lot about the personal social development of the child in a course. It also taught me to have good communication skills, listening skills, empathy, and patience as well.
- What obstacles in life have you had to overcome, and what did you learn?
Whilst growing up there was a time when our parents had financial problems and we didn’t have enough to buy groceries or pay for our boarding fees. So external family members had to intervene and assist. Today I am a donor at Unicef considering the fact I have been through the same struggle. I have learnt that supporting each other as families can make one realize their potential.
- What advice do you have for young girls?
They must learn to be independent and understand their rights. They must also learn and understand gender-based violence and its effects. They must be aware of human trafficking and its risks, and to also stand firm and protect the next generation to come. I would also advise the youth that early enforced marriages must be reported and it’s their right to stand firm against it.
