Akhona

At the age of 14, Akhona started with the After School Programme (ASP) in 2009. Afterwards, he came to the Youth Skills Development (YSD)

programme in 2014 where he learned useful skills and characteristics for his future in the hospitality department. He showed an eagerness to learn, and because of this, he was given the chance to go to France for 6 months in a cultural exchange programme through the A

my Foundation. There he was able to see the many famous French attractions, meet new people and experience their culture, and try delicious French food.

Once he finished our hospitality course, he received the opportunity to work at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa for a month-long internship. Akhona says, “Once an opportunity presents itself, you have to grab it and bring your A-game.” He started in housekeeping for six months. Although it was tough work he persevered and was promoted to work as a doorman where he thrived. He is very friendly and talkative and says he gained a lot of confidence from the YSD programme. First, he earned Employee of the Month, and eventually Employee of the Year in 2016 where he was given the chance to travel to London for the awards ceremony.

Despite some personal challenges, Akhona continues to make amazing strides at work, the Twelve Apostles also assisted him in getting much needed hearing aids to help him with his hearing challenges. Akhona states that by having the right attitude and feeling motivated you will end up in the right place. He has been able to drastically change his and his family’s life. Akhona is a shining example of what hard work and dedication can do to improve one’s life and credits a lot of his success to the Amy Foundation that helped him achieve so much. From starting as a kid with dreams in ASP to ending up as a doorman for 12 Apostles and winning prestigious awards, the Amy Foundation is not only proud of Akhona, but also proud to continue being involved in his and other learner’s futures.