Every journey begins with a single opportunity. For Puleng Makhele (26), that opportunity arrived through the National Youth Service (NYS) programme and it became the foundation for a life rooted in purpose, leadership, and community impact. From Bergman in the Free State, Puleng stepped into NYS searching for growth. What she found was a calling to serve children, support families, and shape a better future for her community.
Implemented by Seriti Institute (NPC) and supported by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the NYS programme opened a pathway for Puleng to discover her strengths and step into leadership. During her time on the programme, she served as both a Team Leader and an ECD Champion, distinguishing herself as a dedicated and passionate young professional. Her strong communication skills, empathy, and ability to lead with purpose enabled the Bloemfontein team to perform exceptionally well, demonstrating growth, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community service.
For Puleng, the NYS experience was about far more than receiving a monthly stipend. She committed herself fully to every aspect of the programme, especially the training and capacity-building sessions. She arrived ready to learn, to ask questions, and to grow. Each workshop became an opportunity to sharpen her skills, deepen her understanding of community work, and strengthen her confidence. She treated the programme not as temporary work, but as a foundation for her future, embracing every lesson as a stepping stone toward the leader she was becoming.
Puleng’s work took her into homes across her community, where she conducted visits with parents and primary caregivers. These moments became transformative.
“Through the home visits conducted in my community, I saw the real need for ensuring children receive early childhood support,” she reflects. “By empowering parents and strengthening early learning systems, the programme gives every child a better start.”
As an ECD Champion, Puleng believed deeply in assisting children to build a better future. She witnessed first-hand how guidance, play, and responsive caregiving can change the trajectory of a child’s life. This experience shaped her understanding of the importance of the early years and strengthened her resolve to continue working in this space.
Reflecting on her experience with the programme, Puleng shares:
“Before NYS, I did not fully believe in myself. I knew I wanted to do something meaningful, but I did not know where I belonged. This programme gave me more than work, it gave me direction. It taught me that my voice matters and that I can change someone’s life, even in the smallest ways. Every home visit, every child I met, reminded me that I am here for a reason. NYS did not only prepare me for a job, it helped me discover who I am.’’
The skills and knowledge Puleng gained through the programme prepared her for professional advancement. Through mentorship, teamwork, and hands-on leadership, she developed confidence, responsibility, and a strong sense of purpose. These qualities opened doors for her next step.
Today, Puleng has successfully transitioned to one of Seriti’s valued local implementing partners, HOPE worldwide SA, where she has taken up an opportunity as a Play Facilitator. In this role, she continues to work with children and families, ensuring that learning, care, and development remain at the centre of every child’s journey.
Puleng’s journey reflects the true purpose of NYS, equipping young people with the skills, experience, and confidence to build meaningful careers while strengthening their communities. Her story is a reminder that when young people are trusted, supported, and given opportunity, they do not only find work, but they also find purpose.
“I will always be grateful for Seriti and the NYS programme,” she concludes. “It opened doors I never thought possible. I encourage other young people to take these opportunities, they can change your life.”
