Itumeleng Johannes Xumalo, a 26 year old firefighter from Bloemhof base, has registered with the Oxbridge Academy to study a Safety Management Course. Xumalo is a participant from the Boitumelong Location in the North West who joined the Working on Fire programme in 2014.

He matriculated in 2011 and due to financial constraints could not continue with his studies.

“After I matriculated in 2011 I was unable to go to school because we did not have enough money at home”, he said.

Xumalo said since he joined the programme he has become a better person and has decided to go back to school using the monthly stipend he gets from the programme. “I am now registered and looking forward to working hard and to complete my studies”.

Xumalo is currently a Safety, Health Environment Representative at the base and says that’s how he fell in love with the idea of being in the Occupational Health and Safety Department. “I feel like WoF chose the best career path for me as I joined as a fire fighter but I enjoy doing safety talks.”

Xumalo thanked WoF for developing his skills and for continuously supporting and encouraging fire fighters to reach their dreams.