October News

Patson - It's a bit chilly!

At the end of last month Patson and I had the pleasure of visiting Finland. We were invited by FSAA (Finnish South Africa Association) who are our main sponsors. Only two of us were invited and unfortunately Lionel and Malibongwe could not fit into our suitcases! The main purpose of the trip was to speak at a conference and also to meet those who for a number of years have faithfully supported Themba Training. We wined and dined with ambassadors, church leaders and a number of very interesting people. Patson found Helsinki “too much cold” but I really enjoyed the city.

FSAA did exceptionally well in extending amazing hospitality and our days were action-packed with visits to government departments, leaders in the educational sectors, church leaders and others. We also enjoyed an evening with “important people” including the South African ambassador to Finland. I found it especially interesting as I was introduced to a few men who were very involved during the 60-80’s in the struggle against apartheid. Some of them became personal friends of exiled ANC leaders and a few even fought in Angola against SWAPO. I was introduced to a part of South African history which those of us who lived through those years knew very little about.

Sadly our partnership with FSAA will come to an end towards the end of 2013. FSAA always regarded this as a short-term project, then extended it for 3 years (2010-12) and have agreed to support us for another year. We remain very grateful for the friendship we have enjoyed with “the Finns”. It is humbling to visit a nation and meet people who care and have demonstrated this care for a nation “very far” from their own.

On our return we had a few days to prepare for another graduation, and on the 09th of October a further 40 people received certificates and celebrated successful participation in our Micro Business training course. The majority of these trainees are now being mentored and many have seen definite improvements in their micro businesses.