Mariska Malata, a 32-year-old resident of Emalahleni, Kwa-Guqa extension 11, embarked on a transformative journey that began at Mbalenhle Pre-school. Initially employed as an assistant in the 0-2 year olds’ class, Mariska’s experience nurtured her passion for Early Childhood Development (ECD) and set the stage for personal and professional growth. 

Mariska’s interactions with young children not only deepened her understanding of child development but also inspired her to pursue further education. Motivated by a desire to excel, Mariska enrolled in ECD Level 5 qualification, recognizing it as a crucial step towards achieving her dream of owning a day-care center. 

Investing in her education opened doors to new career opportunities and paved the way for her ultimate ambition—to establish a thriving day-care center in her community. Her vision is grounded in a commitment to providing high-quality care and education that enables every child to flourish and reach their full potential. 

Mariska expresses profound gratitude to those who supported her journey thus far, acknowledging their instrumental role in empowering unemployed South Africans like herself. Their belief in her capabilities and dedication to community development have profoundly impacted her life and fueled her determination to succeed. 

Mariska Malata’s journey exemplifies resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of education and community support. From her humble beginnings as a preschool assistant to aspiring entrepreneur in ECD, Mariska’s story underscores the potential for personal and professional growth when individuals are empowered with skills and opportunities. Her future day-care center promises to be a beacon of quality education and nurturing care, enriching the lives of young children and contributing to community well-being.