FOR Nkosinathi Thomas Mbuyisa (aka Nathi), writing a book was one of his ‘tools’ to speak to the down-trodden, giving them hope for their future.
When Nathi’s parents passed away in 1992 and 1994, his grandfather took it upon himself to raise him and his two siblings.
Nathi then accepted the challenge to work hard in his young life and listen to his beloved grandfather. Today he is proud to have made it in life, despite being an orphan.
Nathi says he is proud to say he is what he is today because of his grandfather’s teachings, and all that he learnt from him.
‘Having grown up an orphan made me resilient, focused and a determined person,’ he said.
‘My parents passed away when I was still at primary school, then my grandfather looked after us until I finished matric in 2003.
‘It was tough, but I worked very hard to forge my way to a better future.
‘When an opportunity for a learnership with Protea Hotels availed itself to Mbuyisa in 2005, I grabbed it with both hands, and became a trainee-chef, which afforded me more knowledge in the hospitality industry.’
On life’s lessons
Mbuyisa advises others, saying they can always do something with their lives, no matter how bad their situation is.
‘In life you have to always strive for the best, to be the best in whatever you do, and always believe in yourself.
‘Think like a lion, and act like a champion; as lions always do,’ he said.
Mbuyisa says he hates people who always sing praises about others.
‘You must always believe in yourself, that you are also important, and that you can always succeed.
‘Remember we are all made in God’s image, so in the eyes of the Lord we are all equal.
‘There are also those who like blaming their circumstances on the past, which will always hold you back if you dwell on the past happenings.’
He continues, saying ‘As much as it is difficult to navigate your way through this life, we have to learn from other people’s mistakes, and grow from them. ‘We are not here to change the world, but we can influence others to think positively, to look at life differently.
‘Once you have discovered yourself, you can then safely say you have struck a gold mine.’
Mbuyisa thanks KwaDukuza Municipality for the Mayoral Award, presented to him for writing his book.
‘KDM Mayor Cllr Ricardo Mthembu has been a champion for my work – to be where and what it is today.
‘I am grateful for the support they are giving me to realise my dream, for recognising my work.’
