Getting to know yourself as a South African, Unravelling Xhosa History

First and foremost, I am a father to my son, with all else being a means to this end.

As the eldest son of four, with an additional half-sister, I understand the strength and responsibility that comes with this role. When my father, our sole provider, passed away when I was just 11, this responsibility took on a new urgency.

Fortunately, my mother's unwavering strength allowed her to temporarily fill both parental roles until I was old enough to step in. By 20, armed with a National Diploma and a steady job, I proudly took on the mantle of supporting my entire family – mother, sisters, nephews, and niece.

This wasn't just about financial security. I saw an opportunity to change the course of their lives. Leaving the limitations of the rural Eastern Cape, we embarked on a journey to Gauteng. Here, with my hard work, we transitioned from a single property in a communal system to owning multiple properties in Johannesburg. These choices not only secured a better future for my immediate family, but also for my nephews and niece, especially in a household led by a woman.

Education: A Journey of Discovery

My educational journey began in the picturesque Eastern Cape, then known as Transkei. From attending rustic schools like Mahasana, Lencane, and Matolweni, to completing Standard 7, I embraced learning in various environments – under the shade of a tree, in church buildings, and even prefabricated structures. Finally, I landed at Kiriyatswane Senior Secondary School in Mpumalanga, where I matriculated.

This unconventional path instilled a love for learning beyond the confines of traditional classrooms. For the past two decades, I've actively pursued knowledge and honed my skills in Risk Management across diverse industries like government, banking, real estate, transportation, telecommunications, and consulting. My formal studies in areas like environmental health, safety, compliance, and emergency response management laid a strong foundation.

However, it's my commitment to continuous learning and exploration that has truly propelled me forward. I have an insatiable curiosity about the core principles that drive risk management across different fields. This fuels my desire to use these principles not only to enhance my own life but also to share them through writing so others can benefit.

Beyond Qualifications: A Deep Dive

I believe in practical solutions backed by experience and ongoing research. My inherent self-teaching nature compels me to challenge conventional wisdom and base my decisions on real-world outcomes. This inquisitive nature, coupled with meticulous attention to detail and relentless research skills, has made me a successful auditor, risk management professional, and compliance expert.

These qualities haven't just benefited my career, but they've also served as a shield for my family, protecting them from common pitfalls. Ultimately, my dedication to mastering risk management stems from my unwavering commitment to excel in my greatest role: being a father and provider for my family.

A New Chapter

With the publication of my first book, "The Homeschooling Father: How and Why I Got Started" in 2023, I've embarked on a new chapter. Now, I'm excited to explore, research, and write about various subjects that captivate me, just like the journey that led me here.