TEACH Ambassador Profile: Phumuzile Ndlovu

Before she joined TEACH South Africa, Phumuzile Ndlovu never thought that she could be a teacher in South Africa as she had heard that “township students” were not disciplined. But soon after becoming a TEACH South Africa Ambassador she realised that these children are hungry for knowledge.

She now teaches English at Ilinge High School in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni South School District in Gauteng – and loves every moment of it.

“I am proud of being a teacher; I would do it for the next five years, given the chance.”

Originally from Zimbabwe, Phumuzile says she joined TEACH South Africa because she supported the concept.

“The whole vision of TEACH South Africa, which is improving the lives of disadvantaged learners, resonates with me. This organisation gave me the chance to realise my dreams and make a difference in the lives of marginalised children.”
She describes teaching as a challenging profession but says the challenges make it interesting.

“What I have realised is that you must keep your head up high, love what you are doing, love the children and everything else will fall into place.”

One of the important qualities that she has developed during her time as a TEACH Ambassador has been relating to her learners.

“Teaching has taught me to be more understanding. I am more patient and I am willing to try out new things in the classroom.”

Phumuzile, who teaches Grades 8, 9 and 11, says when she started teaching at Ilinge her learners were not comfortable speaking English in class, but this has changed.

“I encouraged them to read more English books, and participate in debates and discussions. And I have seen the difference. They are now fluent in English and they are confident enough to stand up in front of a class and read.”

Phumuzile, who majored in History at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape, says TEACH South Africa has made her a stronger person.

“I have grown as a person. They [my learners] ask me about a lot of things that don’t even pertain to lessons; some of them say they want to be like me when they grow up.”

She believes that she has made a positive impact on her learners.

“I have noticed the improvement in their writing and confidence levels. These kids were told that they could never amount to anything, but now they are changing that and standing up for themselves, no matter how broken their English is.”

For all those aspiring to be teachers, Phumuzile says teaching isn’t as bad as some people make it out to be.

“Teaching is not about the money, it is about giving back to the community that made you. There is nothing more pleasing than seeing a learner 10 years down the line saying ‘you made me who I am today’.”

Her vision for TEACH South Africa is that it continues growing and helping disadvantaged learners.

“I want to see my learners producing good results. TEACH South Africa must continue preaching the message that nothing is impossible; with dedication and commitment one can go a long way.”