The DaVinci Institute is driven by purpose, aligned with one of its core objectives: to become an employer of choice. The story of our HR Project Administrator, Olerato Mmolai, is a testament to the Institute’s commitment to its people. From intern to permanent staff, she was given an opportunity that restored her hope.
Struggle With Employment
Like many young people in South Africa, Mmolai was no stranger to the struggle of finding employment. However, DaVinci gave her hope during a difficult time in her life. At her alma mater (Eduvos), there is an employability department, and from time to time, the coordinator sends out job adverts for entry-level positions.
The turning point came when she received a personal email about an internship opportunity with The DaVinci Institute.
“I was a bit hesitant at the time because, one, I had not heard of the Institute and the SETA that was responsible for my induction. Two, I was going through an exceedingly difficult time in my life, so looking for a job was the last thing on my mind. Still, I just thought, let me apply and see what happens,” she stated.
Little did Mmolai know that DaVinci would become her destination of choice. She secured an internship at the Institute, which later developed into a permanent position.
“My journey at the Institute went by very quickly, and a lot has happened. But most importantly, I have learned a lot in the little time that I have been here,” she added.
Mmolai’s Experience as an Intern
Mmolai’s experience as an intern at DaVinci had its difficulties, but within just a year, she had gained invaluable insights, even navigating a transition in management. She was exposed to many real-world experiences that she had never encountered in textbooks or classrooms.
It was not an easy journey, it was challenging. There were days when she doubted the stream she had chosen.
“When the good days came, it made it all worth it. Not forgetting the emotions and mental effect, People Management can put you in, it takes a strong person to pull themselves out of it and remember what the point of it all is. It has been both fulfilling and insightful,” stated Mmolai.
Turning Point in Her Career
Some of Mmolai’s greatest achievements came during her internship when she had the chance to contribute to the well-being of employees.
“This is something that is often overlooked yet important. It is a privilege to nurture and prioritise people because, in a world where there are many problems and conflicts, work should not contribute to that burden but instead be a peaceful and healthy environment where we can thrive and be at our best,” she said of her role in People Management.
Mmolai’s Reflection
According to Mmolai, being an intern can be challenging because people sometimes assume interns are incapable of doing the job. Fear nearly became an obstacle to her progress, especially during moments when she was afraid to respond to questions.
“I should have spoken up to those who doubted me. When I was asked questions, I chose not to answer because of the fear of misunderstanding the question asked. I would not change anything because I asked the relevant questions at the right time,” she explained.
Long-Term Vision
With the hands-on experience she gained at DaVinci, Mmolai now believes entrepreneurship is the path she wants to pursue. At DaVinci, we empower leaders to contribute meaningfully to society, with prosperity as one of our objectives.
“I see myself building an empire alongside my mother, who is an HR Manager in one of the Chapter 9 institutions, and assisting companies that do not have an in-house HR department. I also plan to study further. Since my degree is a double major, I might stream off into becoming a psychometrist,” stated Mmolai.
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