23/06/2026
This is where I commenced my working career while I was completing my matriculation, but to summarize, I had no one to provide guidance and support, and my mother suffered a stroke. I recall approaching a farmer without anyone to advocate on my behalf, and I shared my situation with him, explaining that I was struggling and had no one to rely on except for my mother, who was unable to walk or perform any tasks due to her stroke, and my two siblings, aged 8 and 14, respectively. I was still in grade 12 at the time, and when the schools closed, I had to seek employment. I then went to the farm, and the owner listened to my story and offered me a job. Initially, I was tasked with crushing maize that had been picked by others. Subsequently, he provided me with a job as a cattle feeder when he was establishing his feedlot. He paid me approximately R2000 per month, which later increased to R3000. I had to save money, and I obtained a code 14 EC driver's license, as I had a passion for driving trucks. I then requested that he allow me to learn to operate a side tipper, but he declined, suggesting that I start by transporting cattle using a UD80. Notably, my grandfather, who had a colliat, had taught me how to operate a Power Star truck, so operating a UD was relatively easy. My salary increased to R7,000 and R8,000 per month. After two years, he agreed to allow me to learn to operate a side tipper. I worked for three years in this capacity, and subsequently, I requested his permission to seek new opportunities. He graciously allowed me to leave, stating that I was welcome to return if things did not work out. Today, I was standing here, and I sent him a WhatsApp message. He came to see me, and I am grateful for his kindness. Some white people are genuinely empathetic and understanding of one's struggles. I will always be grateful to Thabisophisticated Mofokeng. 😊🙏
