Lungelo’s Journey

Growing up in Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, Lungelo Njoko always wanted to make a difference. Even as a young learner, she looked for ways to serve those around her. At primary school, she chaired the Soul Buddies Club, helping support fellow learners and giving a voice to those who needed one most. Those early experiences shaped the person she has become.

Today, Lungelo is taking the next step in her remarkable journey as part of the finance team at DHL Supply Chain. For many young people in rural South Africa, a role at a global company can feel out of reach. Yet through hard work and the support of KHULA Education, Lungelo has turned that ambition into reality.

“People in my community are really proud,” she says. “Where I’m from, not many get the chance to work at a company like DHL. Some younger children tell me, ‘If you did it, I can too.’ That motivates me to keep going.”

Her success represents hope for a community where opportunities can often seem limited and Lungelo knows she didn’t get here alone. “I got here with help from my family, KHULA and members of my community. Now my goal is to use what I learn at DHL to create more opportunities back home.”

Working in finance and logistics, she is determined to absorb everything she can, building the technical skills and experience to become a qualified finance professional. In five years’ time, she hopes to be leading teams and helping to deliver major projects. But whatever the future holds, she hasn’t forgotten where she came from.

“KHULA invested in me, so I want to get to a point where I can do the same for someone else in my community.”

Her advice to other young people: “Your background doesn’t define your future. Keep learning, keep applying and stay ready. Opportunity comes when preparation meets the chance.”

Every year, KHULA supports thousands of young people with the education, skills and opportunities they need to build brighter futures. Lungelo’s story is a reminder that when potential is matched with opportunity, the impact reaches far beyond one individual. It inspires communities and encourages the next generation to believe that they can succeed too.