Maudley Mabokela (23) is soft-spoken, petite, intelligent, young and determined to add her name to the pool of young women excelling in fields that are traditionally male-dominated.
Mabokela studied electrical engineering, a qualification that has just earned her a sought after place in Motorola’s flagship programme for the development of young talent.
The programme is called Engineering-in-Training and takes two years. It identifies students who come from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, and who excel in the field of engineering, giving them an opportunity to further their studies through in-service training.
These students get hands-on training and work closely with the company’s experienced engineers. The programme is Motorola’s contribution to helping address the country’s skills shortage, particularly in strategic areas such as engineering, science and technology.
How do you earn a living?
I am a trainee student at Motorola.
Where did you grow up?
I was born and grew up in Mahwereleng, Limpopo.
What primary school did you go to?
I started at Ithuteng Lower Primary School in 1990 and went to Raphela Higher Primary School for one year after that. In 1995 and 1996 I went to Groblersdal Primary School in Mpumalanga.
Where did you do your secondary schooling?
Hoërskool Ben Viljoen, also in Groblersdal, from 1997 to 2001.
And your tertiary?
I studied electrical engineering (light current) at Ekurhuleni West Further Education and Training College (on the East Rand of Gauteng) and graduated in 2004.
Who was your favourite teacher?
Mr Steenkamp at Hoërskool Ben Viljoen.
Why were you so fond of him?
He was very accommodating and approachable. I felt free to speak to him about any subject, even if it was personal. My parents trusted him.
How did he influence you?
He knew my strengths and weaknesses and would always encourage me to work hard. He really knew how to bring out the best in me.
Are you still in contact with him?
Not really. But I heard he is no longer a teacher and has joined his wife, who runs a pharmacy. I think of passing by their pharmacy one day on my way home.
What were your favourite subjects and why?
I enjoyed science more than maths. But things changed when I got to tertiary. I fell in love with maths. So they are both my favourite subjects.
From your point of view, what are the qualities of a good teacher?
Someone who understands that pupils are not the same, that they have different skills and capabilities. Openness and easy to approach.
What are the things a teacher should never say or do?
He or she should not embarrass learners who step out of line in front of the class. This destroys the learner’s self-esteem and self-worth. Chatting in private could help things.
What message do you have for teachers in South Africa?
They must encourage their learners to be the best they can, guide and support them all the time and, more importantly, provide them with valuable information, especially with regard to career choices. Learners can only make informed decisions on what career path to follow if they have sufficient information. — Thabo Mohlala