SAIW BURSARY WINNER 2023 – Nolwazi Carol Bhengu

An Inspirational Journey to becoming SAIW Level 1 Inspector Bursary Recipient

In an incredible story of resilience and determination, Nolwazi Carol Bhengu, the recipient of one of four prestigious SAIW Level 1 Inspector bursaries for 2023, shares her inspiring journey. Hailing from the vibrant township of Umlazi outside Durban and raised in a loving family, Nolwazi faced immense challenges, including caring for her blind mother. Through unwavering focus and a passion for welding, she aims to elevate her career to new heights and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. 

Read more about her here:

Q. Please provide some background on where you come from, your school and tertiary education?

A. I come from a very loving family, raised by both parents in a warm and respectful home. I'm also from a huge township called Umlazi outside of Durban and, I went through primary and high school in the same township.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced during your life so far and how have you overcome these?

A. The biggest challenge I've ever faced in life was to put my life aside and look after my mother who suddenly became blind due to medical conditions and could not do a lot of things by herself. As tough and heartbreaking as it was, I made peace with it and accepted things as they were, and since I couldn't leave her alone at home for a long time, I started teaching Mathematics and Physical Science to high school kids in the afternoons to earn something and to keep my mind active.

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. The biggest life lesson I've learnt in life is that no matter how hard things may get, never lose focus. Always try to create some space for yourself and keep in touch with your interests.

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. Since my fiancé is a welder and talks about his work every day, I've grown to love and understand this industry a lot. So, I'm planning to study furthermore and do my Welding and Fabrication Inspector Level 2, I'm sure I'll enjoy this journey as I am really looking forward to it.