My name is Rebrencia Siegelaar.
I was born and raised in Bonnievale. I am currently employed at De Wijngarten Boutique better known as “TimJan” as a sales assistant.
Well, here is my story:
A few months ago, I was unemployed because my contract as an operational learner at Lactalis ended at the end of February this year.
I was wondering what I was going to do because sitting at home was not an option. I have two daughters who depend on me, and I am used to being independent. There was a time that I felt that my world was falling apart but luckily for me I had a strong support system. They helped me through the tough times, and I am truly thankful for having them in my life.
While I was at home, I was sending out my CV but unfortunately, I heard nothing back. It made me feel a little hopeless, but I still didn’t give up. One evening I went to the Reverend of our church for some guidance. He promised to pray with me for something. He was also the one who referred me to Bonnievale418. I did some research and that is where I heard about the course.
I contacted Rudi who is the facilitator of the course, and he sent advertisements of work opportunities to which I applied but still no success. He also mentioned to me that if I did not find something before the next course starts, I am welcome to attend the 13-day course.
The 28th of June was the first day of attending the course and it somehow felt like I’m back at school, just joking!! On my first day I had already learned so much and I was very enthusiastic to complete the course not only because Rudi asked me but because I felt that I needed to be there. I learned that you must always begin your day with a positive mindset. The video clips were very inspiring, and it also made me think a lot. One thing that I have learned along the way is that if you set your mind on something you can achieve it. Most important thing is you must believe in yourself, and you don’t have to prove yourself to anyone out there. You do not owe them the only person that you owe is yourself. Well on the next day while we were busy with a group discussion Rudi started to write something on the board, new job opportunities. So, as soon as I got home, I asked my boyfriend to take me to town. I went by TimJan just to find out more about the position like the requirements.
The next day I dropped off my CV and the owner’s son was well impressed. Friday morning while we were on a tea break, I saw a missed call from the owner. I tried to call back, but my phone gave me some problems, so Rudi lent me his phone to call them back. The owner wanted to see me. I asked the facilitator if I could be excused from class. He didn’t even hesitate. I was a bit anxious, but I remembered to keep my calm.
Well things finally went my way. I got the job and was asked to begin the next Monday.
I’m just a bit sad that I couldn’t complete the course, but I thank the Lord for giving me this opportunity and I personally want to thank both Rudi and Dewald.
If it was not for this course, I wouldn’t know about this position. I was the oldest person that attended the class but that did not even put me off.
You may stumble, you may fall but my lesson for you today is don’t give up…don’t give in. The tunnel may seem dark at first but at the end there will always be light. Sometimes life is like a storm but remember the story about Noah’s Ark. If you have faith in Him who made heaven and earth, he will give you a rainbow.
