Nurturing change-makers: Ahmed Kazadi’s journey & vision for Community Empowerment

What has been your most memorable experience at Pestalozzi World?

Pestalozzi provided me with a place I could always call home and feel safe. Pestalozzi has taught me to give back and to be caring within my environment. I look forward to opportunities through which I can empower my community with the lessons that I’ve learnt. My long term goal is to empower my community. I really want to create spaces where young refugees can actually develop the different skills that they have.

What would life have been like without the support from Pestalozzi World?

Pestalozzi has provided me with many valuable lessons and cherished memories. Without the support and exposure from Pestalozzi, I would not have been able to access the opportunities I am currently exploring. Therefore, I am very grateful for the opportunity and privilege of being part of the Pestalozzi World family.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In the near future, I hope to graduate with a Master’s in Engineering, a qualification that will allow me to initiate my own engineering consultancy firm. Through this firm, I aim to empower other aspiring young engineers in my community by providing them with opportunities to practice their technical and mechanical skills. I hope to use the knowledge I'll gain in the field to impact a lot of other people's lives in.

Can you tell us about ways you are giving back?

While at Pestalozzi, I was involved in multiple community programs, including volunteering at Cheshire Homes, Beit & Bill Orphanage, tutoring at Kalikilik Community Schools, and helping with house chores for elderly women during World Women's Day. Continuing with the Pestalozzi ethos of Head, Heart and Hands, I have also been engaged in the prestigious Bezos Scholars Program. Through this program, my team and I initiated a community project that empowered over 20 youths with career readiness skills, directly addressing the youth unemployment challenges in Johannesburg.

Ahmed's interview showcases the impact of our Pestalozzi approach to education. Our programmes nurture students to be compassionate and caring by providing a safe and supportive environment. We foster a community-oriented mindset by instilling the importance of giving back and empowering others which also encourages students to be actively engaged in initiatives that address real-world challenges. This holistic development ensures that Pestalozzi graduates are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible and committed to making a positive impact.

For more information about our impact follow this link: Proof of Impact - Pestalozzi World