Meet Andiswa, Growing up in Newclare, she never imagined the future she is living today. She often describes herself as a "lone walker" someone who preferred to keep to herself, rarely speaking unless she was spoken to.
When she joined the Empowering Girls Programme, she didn't realise just how much the experience would shape her personally and professionally.
Through the programme, she developed confidence, emotional intelligence and practical skills such as coding. More importantly, she discovered that stepping outside of her comfort zone could open doors she had never imagined.
Today, she is an Underwriter at Old Mutual Insure, one of the Empowering Girls Programme's valued corporate partners. Working in a fast-paced corporate environment has taught her the importance of contributing with confidence, embracing new challenges and recognising the value of her own perspective.
She credits emotional intelligence as one of the most valuable skills she gained. It has helped her build meaningful relationships, navigate professional conversations and work alongside colleagues with many years of experience.
Looking back, she never imagined she would be working in a corporate environment or building the career she has today. Now, she sees a future filled with continued growth, new opportunities and the chance to create a different legacy for her family. One built on stability, love and being present for her son.
Her journey has also inspired her to encourage other young women to believe in themselves. She regularly shares her experience of the Empowering Girls Programme, encouraging girls to apply because she knows firsthand how much it has shaped her confidence, career and future.
For her, the programme was more than a learning experience, it was the beginning of a journey of growth that continues today.