At just 19, Amber Daniëls from Carterville, Wellington, has already discovered something many people spend years searching for: purpose.
Growing up in a community where opportunities can often seem limited, Amber knew she wanted more for herself, even though she wasn’t always sure what that looked like.
After completing Grade 12, she worked as a general worker in manufacturing and events. While she appreciated the opportunity to earn an income, she found herself asking an important question: “What do I really want to become?”
That uncertainty became one of the biggest challenges she faced. Amber wanted to build a better future but didn’t know where to begin. A friend encouraged her to join the Elevation Programme – a decision that would change her life.
A Val de Vie Foundation beneficiary, the Elevation Programme supports people in the wider Drakenstein communities through life skills, enterprise development and opportunities to become self-sufficient. Through its network of skills development and job creation partners, it has assisted more than 1,200 unemployed people to date.
Initially, Amber expected the programme to teach her practical life skills. Instead, she experienced something much deeper.
“They brought my spark back. They made me want more for myself.”
Through the Life Skills and Work Readiness Programme, Amber began discovering her own potential. She learnt how to communicate and prepare for the workplace, but also how to listen to herself, believe in her abilities and make decisions about the future she truly wanted.
A meaningful part of her journey was the programme’s faith-based approach. Conversations about Jesus touched her deeply and changed her perspective on life. “Today I thank Him for the opportunities He has given me. I also tend to forgive more because that lesson inspired me.”
These lessons strengthened her character and gave her a renewed sense of hope, purpose and gratitude.
As Amber’s confidence grew, so did her belief in herself. She became more confident in her communication and more focused on the possibilities ahead. That growth led to her selection for the Business Administration Learnership at WCSS Training – a dream opportunity and an important step towards her future.
Amber sees the learnership as a stepping stone towards her goal of becoming a CEO and creating opportunities for others, inspired by her experience in the Elevation Programme.
Today, she credits the programme with helping her discover her passion and regain a sense of direction.
Her message to other young people is simple: believe in yourself, pursue your dreams and don’t underestimate the importance of guidance and support in rediscovering your potential.
Through the Elevation Programme, Amber has gained direction, purpose, confidence and hope for a bright future.
