Career Planning Workship Held in Swaziland

A very successful Career Planning and Self-Employment Workshop was help in Manzini, Swaziland recently.  Elder and Sister Basso from the area office of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Johannesburg were the presenters. They are extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic and motivational.  Attending were 45 people, who arrived at 9:00 am, braving the heavy rains, and staying until 3:00 pm each day.

Those attending had enough time to learn what to say, how to be confident and positive during interviews, and practice presenting themselves to an employer. Because of the work climate in Swaziland many were interested in self-employment. They learned about how business works, how to create business plans, deturmine cost and pricing, and what it takes to be self emplyed. They were encouraged to find and develop creative solutions rather than to dwell on obstacles and excuses.  Maintaining a positive attitude contributes to success.  

All was presented from the view that Heavenly Father wants us to be successful in life, and we can be if we are willing to work and trust in Him. Everyone was excited about what they learned and want more.

Here are some comments from the attendees:

Musawakhe Mbuli said:  “I have already done the networking we learned about in the Career Workshop.  I was able to get an internship with the car repair shop and when I finish my schooling I will have a job.  I took the Career Workshop before, but I got much more practical information this time around. I was able to go out and do the things I learned in the class. It is changing my opportunity to change my life. Thank you so much for your time and sacrifice in our behalf.”

George Dlamini said:  “The Self Employment class was wonderful!  Already I am pushing forward.  If I had not gone to the class I would be standing still.  Elder Basso opened my mind to new possibilities. I will do what I need to do and I will succeed.  I am excited about my work again.  I have been enlightened.”

Machawe Edward Shongwe said:  “It was the best work shop ever!  It was amazing!  The past two days I have been doing the things we learned in class and I am seeing results!  I am reading the work book again.  I am so grateful to the Bassos and everyone for making this all happen.  I feel so hopeful.  I feel wonderful!  I feel something good is about to happen. I see it happening already.”  Brother Shongwe also attended the Self Employment work shop. 

The following Senior missionary couples work together to organise and implement the workshops, firesides and other speaking opportunities  Elder and Sister Webb, from the Area Office in Johannesburg; Elder and Sister Gunderson, PEF missionaries from Durban; Elder and Sister Zawacky, CES missionaries from Durban; and Elder and Sister Lombardi, senior missionaries in Swaziland.  All freely provide their devoted service and various telents and skills to help young adults reach their potential both in the job market and in the gospel of Jesus Christ.