#HumansOfYeBo - From the Streets of Langa to the Driver’s Seat of Inspiration: The Journey of YeBo Alum Sakhi Khaya Baliso

In the heart of Langa township, where the reality of poverty, violence, and limited opportunity are part of daily life, Sakhi Khaya Baliso emerged as a role model of hope and resilience. A proud and strong IsiXhosa man, Sakhi-Khaya’s journey reflects his dedication not only to his own success but to uplifting others within his community.

Life Before YearBeyond: Facing Hardships, Inspiring Dreams

Growing up with his younger sister, Sakhi Khaya’s life was marked by hardship and resilience. He frequently witnessed his father’s struggles with alcoholism, which often led to difficulties at home. Yet, amidst these challenges, Sakhi Khaya took on the role of a pillar of strength for his family. He devoted himself to keeping his sister focused on her high school studies and supporting his mother. He was committed to staying clear of the many traps that often challenge progress in communities like his.

Through perseverance, Sakhi Khaya matriculated and earned a bursary to study sports science at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). This accomplishment not only set him on a path toward higher education but also represented his refusal to let his circumstances define him. He keeps a gold watch, a gift symbolising this achievement, as a reminder of his success and the journey that led him there.

The YearBeyond journey

His journey took a pivotal turn when he joined the YearBeyond Scouting in Schools programme as a YeBoneer. This role allowed him to not only run after school programmes but also instill in learners the values of scouting and the significance of the outdoors. Mentorship played a critical role in this part of his journey. Ongeza, who held the role before him, became a guiding light, providing advice, encouragement, and a source of strength. With the support of teachers and the school principal, who recognised the importance of diverse mentors for learners, Sakhi Khaya found himself in an environment where he could grow personally and professionally. This is the same environment at Thembani Primary School who won Silver in 2019 for leadership in After School Programmes.

Reflecting on his journey, Sakhi Khaya remembers both the challenges and the rewards—the rigorous training, the first stipend, his expectations versus reality, and the relationships built along the way. It wasn’t always easy, as he juggled studying for his sports science degree, and saving his stipend to achieve his long-term goal of getting a Code 14 licence. Each step was a testament to his goal-oriented mindset and his commitment to self-improvement.

For Sakhi Khaya, YearBeyond was not only about personal growth; it also brought much-needed financial independence. He became a source of support for his family, providing stability in ways he hadn’t before. His involvement in the programme shifted how his family and community viewed him, instilling a sense of pride and respect for his journey and achievements.

A New Chapter with Golden Arrow and a Leap of Faith

Since completing his time with YearBeyond, Sakhi Khaya has continued to apply the skills, networks, and knowledge he gained from the programme to his life. He pursued various career opportunities, working as a sports coach at a school in Claremont and ultimately joining Golden Arrow as a bus driver after completing rigorous training at their Academy. This role not only provided him with stable employment but also a sense of accomplishment.

But Sakhi’s ambitions didn’t end there—he began driving for Uber in his free time, getting him one step closer to buying his own car which he now uses as his own Uber car, using it as a stepping stone toward his long-term dream of owning a transport company.

“Every step, even driving a bus, brings me closer to my bigger goals,” Sakhi says. “I want to build something that supports others and inspires young people from Langa and beyond to dream bigger.”

He recently moved from Langa to Eerste River, taking another step in his journey of growth and independence laughing as he says I'm growing I can’t stay where I was. Looking back, Sakhi sees how each experience—whether challenging or fulfilling—helped shape his journey. The YearBeyond Programme gave him the tools to envision a brighter future and a support network to rely on during difficult times. His relationships with mentors, teachers, and community members reinforced his commitment to making a positive impact.

“I’m proud of where I come from and where I’m going,” he reflects. “No matter where I am or what I’m doing, I want to be a reminder that success is possible, no matter how tough things get.”

Lessons and Advice for Aspiring Youth

For young people considering YearBeyond, Sakhi Khaya’s advice is clear: “Believe in yourself, stay focused, and don’t let your circumstances define you.” He emphasises the importance of mentorship and surrounding oneself with positive influences, underscoring how YearBeyond has been a life-changing experience for him.

To funders and policymakers, he offers a powerful message: “Programmes like YearBeyond are essential for communities like mine. They provide young people with the tools to succeed and become leaders.” His story stands as a testament to the power of support, resilience, and the belief that even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.