SAIW BURSARY WINNER 2023 – Francois Lombard
Triumph Over Challenges: An Inspiring Journey of Perseverance
The first phase of our 2023 bursary program, offered two specialised practical welding school courses aimed at nurturing budding entrepreneurs in the welding sector. We received a range of outstanding applications, leading to a rigorous selection process. Ultimately, we proudly awarded the two coveted bursaries to Thokozani (Gift) Mokwena and Francois Lombard. Their exceptional potential and dedication stood out amidst strong competition.
In this profile, we speak to Francois who will start his course in the first week of October. He comments; “I saw the SAIW advertisement about a bursary opportunity and I took a chance and applied. To my surprise, I was successful. It shows the importance of never giving up on a dream no matter the challenges that life presents.”
Read more about his incredible journey here:
Q. Please provide some background on where you come from, your school and tertiary education?
A. I was born and raised in Middleburg. I am my parents’ sixth child. I went to Eastdene Combined School for my whole school career. Unfortunately, I didn't complete high school, because I got bored with school and it’s where I discovered my passion for welding. My late father involved me in various welding projects at home and this further developed in me doing projects for the community. Due to finances, I was unable to get my welding qualification.
Q. What are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced during your life so far and how have you overcome these?
A. Finding consistent employment and the ability to fund my dream of becoming a qualified welder. I worked as a security guard for most of my working career but continued welding in my spare time for people who requested various projects to be completed. These ranged from welding burglar bars, doors, gates, bird cages etc. I didn't give up on my dream of becoming a qualified welder. I saw the SAIW advertisement about a bursary opportunity and I took a chance and applied. To my surprise, I was successful. It shows the importance of never giving up on a dream no matter the challenges that life presents.
Q. What would you say are the biggest i. work and ii. life lessons you have learnt thus far in your life or even a quote or saying that sums up your approach to life?
A. To be consistent in everything that you do and never give up. Keep knocking on doors until one opens.
Q. How do you hope to take your career to even greater heights once you have achieved your SAIW qualification - what are your plans for the future?
A. I am hoping to find a stable career within the welding industry and then become a welding inspector where I am able to mentor and inspire other future welders.
