“My experience was very good for me, it was fruitful… I learned a lot, I experienced a lot, especially in the outdoor, you learn how to manage… the route march, you get your mind set, the solo - you get your mind straight and you think of all the stuff that you did… and when you are coming out of this space then you realize yeah, that solo it helps for me because look at what I am now!.” (Graduate in 2007 from Elsies River)
“My journey to success began at Chrysalis Academy.”
I grew up in Kuyasa, Khayelitsha community and I live with both my parents. I am the third eldest of five kids. As young people we are exposed to many substances in the community. Peer pressure and a low self-esteem led me to join in this negative lifestyle. I was involved with gangsters, physical abuse and substance abuse.
As I was longing for success and better things in life and to be respected, I had to make a decision to change my life around. I was working as a taxi guard at Retreat station when I met graduates of Chrysalis Academy. They explained to me what the programme was about and shared their experiences with me. The next week I filled out an application form and was accepted to come on the programme in June 2008.
During the 3-month life skills programme I was exposed to different skills, but the First Aid Level 1 and Level 3 was the highlight for me. After I graduated I submitted my C.V in many places on my search for work. I eventually got my break at EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and went for further training, First Aid Level 5.
I am currently employed at EMS and I am working at Lentegeur Hospital/Mitchells Plain as an Emergency Care Practitioner. I am happy to be living a healthy, positive and responsible life.
Our Success Stories 
