atYOUTH: Meet Our Rising Stars

So, what brought you to atWORK, Celeste?

I never planned to work for a software development company but I’m pleased life had other plans for me. Soon after I started studying, I decided I wanted to be in control of my own life. My sister was working at atWORK and when a support desk agent position opened up, she suggested I apply. That was seven years ago! Last year I completed my LLB law degree from UNISA, cum laude.

Congratulations, that’s incredible! Are you still working on the support desk?

No – a few years ago I moved over into sales. That was actually quite a challenging time, as I had to juggle visiting new clients with my role on the support desk. When I finally got home at night I had to tackle my studies – while most of my mates were out partying. It all paid off in the end, though.

Sure did! And what do you like most about working at atWORK?

atWORK is like a family. There’s so much support, and the management and executive teams take time to check in with each team member personally. I really enjoy the company socials where we get together and connect with all the departments – even more so after COVID!

Last question: Do you have a message for young South Africans?

My ouma always encouraged me to invest in my education. This advice has served me really well and I would urge other youngsters to do the same. There are so many different options to choose from: traditional universities, colleges, and online platforms like Udemy. Education is more accessible than it used to be in the past. There really is something for everyone.

So, what’s your background, Tsholedi?

I grew up and completed my schooling in Limpopo. I started out wanting to be a teacher, but life had other plans and I ended up studying IT. I moved to Gauteng to find a job. I listed my profile on various job boards, and atWORK actually contacted me…

And how’s your life changed since then?

Workwise, it’s been incredible. I’ve learnt so much in such a short space of time, and I’ve been introduced to a completely different side of IT: the exciting world of cloud-based software development. At home, I’m still the same Tsholedi. I still go for a run every morning and I still love playing soccer.

Good to know! Tell us, what makes atWORK special for you?

There’s no office politics! The work environment is constructive, and everyone is just focused on doing their jobs to the best of their abilities. It’s very refreshing…

Finally, what’s your message for kids growing up in SA today?

If my journey has proved anything it’s that when life hands you a hard knock, you can pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and move forward. Believe in your dreams – they might just come true.

Tell us a bit about your journey, Matin?

I was born and bred in Pretoria, and I spent loads of happy hours with my grandfather tinkering in his shed: building go-carts, working on generators, you name it… He was the one who inspired me to pursue my IT qualification from Belgium Campus iTversity.

He sounds amazing. How have things changed since you joined atWORK?

Joining atWORK reinforced my decision to study software development. The culture of constant learning inspires me to stay on top of my game. And atWORK has shown me that it’s possible to make a successful career out of doing what I love.

Awesome! Can you tell us a bit more about what you do, exactly?

At the moment I’m fully focused on fine-tuning atWORK 6, the newest version of our software. When I joined atWORK I was assigned to the team maintaining atWORK 5, an older version. It’s been fascinating to see how the development principles have changed between the two versions of the program.

One last thing: Do you have anything to say to the youth of South Africa?

Don’t give up on your dreams! And remember that a career or job you love doesn’t just happen, you need to put continuous effort into what you love.