Israel Thekiso’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to making a difference in workplace safety. A current student at The DaVinci Institute, Thekiso is pursuing a Higher Certificate in the Management of Technology and Innovation, a qualification that has significantly reshaped his career outlook and entrepreneurial aspirations.
A Personal Turning Point
Israel’s career in safety management wasn’t born out of convenience but out of personal experience. Having worked in the construction industry, he saw firsthand how lax safety protocols exposed workers to potential injury. His perspective shifted dramatically after becoming a victim himself; burned by concrete on site due to poor safety measures. That incident became a defining moment, propelling him towards a career dedicated to protecting workers and ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
As a safety officer, his role has been pivotal in internal audits, incident investigations, and the implementation of the ISO 45001 management system. Through his work, he has helped organisations enhance safety measures, ensuring that workers return home safely to their families.
The DaVinci Impact: A Shift in Thinking
Before joining The DaVinci Institute, Israel had a clear profession but lacked a strategic vision for his career. Studying at DaVinci introduced him to the broader applications of management, technology, and innovation.
“The modules at DaVinci completely transformed how I view my role,” he explains. “I used to think entrepreneurship was just about starting a business, but now I see it as solving problems. I’ve learned to identify opportunities, approach challenges strategically, and align my ideas with frameworks like TIPS™ and NDP2030 to make a real impact.”
One of his biggest takeaways has been systems thinking, a concept he now applies daily. “Before, I thought I understood systems, but my knowledge was just the tip of the iceberg. I’ve now learned to see the bigger picture and understand how everything within a system is interconnected. This has improved my ability to implement solutions that truly benefit my organisation.”
Generis Omnivision: A Business in the Making
Inspired by his learnings, Thekiso has embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with Generis Omnivision Pty Ltd. Although still in its foundational phase, he is refining his business idea using the insights gained from DaVinci’s lectures. “Since we’re in the 5IR era, I’m exploring how to leverage this space to make a difference in safety management. There’s a lot to streamline, but I’m applying what I’ve learned to define my niche and act strategically.”
Breaking Barriers and Changing Mindsets
Thekiso once believed in the myth that entrepreneurs are born, not made. However, his time at DaVinci has proven otherwise. “The interactive teaching methods, simulations like Mike’s Bikes, and the structured assessments rewired my mindset. I went from someone who waited for instructions to someone who proactively suggests impactful ideas at work.”
Aspirations and the Road Ahead
Looking forward, Thekiso has set his sights on furthering his education, ideally reaching NQF level 8 or 9. “Being the first in my family to achieve this would be a game-changer, especially for my younger relatives. I want to shift the narrative and show them the value of education.”
He also embraces the balance between studies and entrepreneurship, determined to grow Generis Omnivision into a company that makes meaningful contributions to workplace safety.
A Journey of Discovery and Motivation
Thekiso’s career path has been anything but conventional. After dropping out of an engineering course (a choice influenced by his parents), he explored public relations and management assistance at a TVET college. However, securing a corporate role proved challenging. It wasn’t until he took a job in construction and experienced the harsh realities of workplace hazards that he found his true calling in safety management.
His motivation stems from two key sources: validation and legacy. “I thrive on feedback—it fuels me to improve. But more than that, I fear being forgotten. I want to leave a mark, to know that my work and my efforts have made a difference.”
Applying TIPS and Systems Thinking in Everyday Life
At first, Thekiso found the TIPS™ Framework (Technology, Innovation, People, and Systems) confusing, but it all clicked when he applied it to real-life challenges. Now, he integrates it into every aspect of his work, studies, and even his personal life. “Dr Linda’s advice to use TIPS during a setback changed everything. I use it in academics, work, and even dating!”
His grasp of systems thinking has also evolved. “Having worked in the FMCG sector, I now truly understand how interconnected systems are. I used to see ISO 45001 and ISO 9001 as separate entities, but now I recognise them as part of a living ecosystem. Every department operates within a system; we just don’t always call it that.”
This new perspective has led him to apply systems thinking not only in his career but also in his volunteer work at Mzansi Queer Radio, where he’s helping streamline their internal systems.
A Passionate Advocate for Learning
Reflecting on his journey, Thekiso is adamant about the impact of his education. “If I had started at DaVinci earlier, I’d be far ahead in life. The IDP module gave me direction, and every class has been an opportunity to learn and share. I even throw in what I’ve learned during meetups with friends, it gives me a chance to show off!”
Israel Thekiso’s story is one of transformation, from an uncertain young man navigating different career paths to a confident safety professional and budding entrepreneur. Through his studies at The DaVinci Institute, he has developed an entrepreneurial spirit, a systems-thinking mindset, and the confidence to pursue ideas that have the potential to reshape industries and improve lives.
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