Frustrated with waiting for opportunities to come his way, an unemployed mechanical engineering graduate took the initiative to start a welding business in his community after struggling to secure a job.
Thomas Tsintsing founded The Engineered Movement Africa (Pty) Ltd in 2020 and has since trained over 20 men from his workshop in Bloemanda.
“Sometimes you have to wait. I waited and I waited and I could have waited forever, so it was important for me to take action,” he said.
He started the training initiative in 2021, and some of the trainees have since started their own businesses or found formal employment. In order to make a difference, he chose to empower local youth with skills that enable them to build a better future and give back to their community.
One of the trainees, Tlotliso Khoale (22), a former Dr Böhmer School learner, said his father suggested that he learn how to weld once he completed school because he was unemployed for some time. He joined Tsintsing’s team in 2024 and has found great value in the mentorship he receives.
“Working here has made a huge impact in my life because I am not just sitting at home and I am able to learn more from people like Thomas,” he said.
Tsintsing matriculated at Louis Botha Technical High School and furthered his studies at Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein and the Central University of Technology. He explains that his passion was in the design space and when he completed his practical training, he decided to create fire pits and braai stands.
“I saw there was a gap in the market. Bloemfontein is cold and people like to braai, so I thought it would be viable. I did not want to limit myself to one thing, so I learnt to make carports and burglar bars and various steel products.”
Tsintsing encourages local artisans to think of different ways to remain relevant. Being versatile with their craft can be a gateway to more opportunities. He has a strong interest in learning more about AI and robotics to stay aligned with the way the world is progressing.
To find out more about the training available, follow The Engineered Movement Africa on Facebook, or contact 067 101 5985 for more information.
Gypseenia Lion
gypseenia@mahareng.co.za
