Balancing work and studies is often painted as a test of endurance and many in ways it is. This week we feature Mandlenkosi Moses Groening.
The young man is navigating both lectures halls and workplace on holidays has come to understand the quiet resilience it takes to chase two dreams at once. “My journey has not been perfect, but it been real, full of long night”, said Groening. For most student’s holidays mean resting but for the young lad it means securing the bag through reporting to work and meeting work deadlines. “I have come to see holidays in a different light, not as time off, but as time to catch up in other ways,” added Groening.
Groening is a full time student at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology where he is pursuing his Associate Degree in Journalism and Media. He is also a part time employee at Mbabane Parking where he works on school holidays. Before, Groening was working at the Manzini parking and when it closed down he was transferred to join the Mbabane team under the same company.
Background
Groening made the decision not to rest during school holidays, but instead to work in order to support his family financially. His mother lost her job three years ago, and since then, the family has struggle to survive on his grandmother’s elderly grant, which is not sufficient. He also has a sister who had to stay home from school because they could not afford her tuition fees. Groening chose to step up and help where he could. “I work because I have no other choice. This is the only way I can escape poverty,” he explained.
Despite juggling both work and school, Groening is also an author. He uses poetry as away to express his emotions and to inspire hope in others who may be struggling. He explained that he chose poetry because it is something he cannot let go of his passion for it is deeply rooted. Through his writing, he aims to show people that hardships are temporary and that with focus and determination, you can overcome them and find happiness in the end. He has recently published a poetry book, titled The Void at Amazon. For now it has one review. The reviewer rated it 5 stars ?.
Over the past year, balancing work and school has taught him the value of discipline, time management, and resilience. Groening has learnt how to prioritise his responsibilities and staying focused even when he feels exhausted and overwhelmed. “There have been times when I came home late from work and still had continue on writing my book, but I have pushed through because I know what I am working towards,” said the young man positively.
Groening mentioned that the journey has not been easy for him but it made him stronger and more determined to a point that he even gained real world experience, learning how to communicate better, manage stress, and stay committed to my goals even when life get tough.
Tips on how to juggle both worlds
1. Yourhard work will pay one day- Evening when it feels overwhelming, remember that every sacrifice you make is an investment in your future.
2. Praying really works- Staying spiritually grounded can give you strength, clarity, and peace of mind during difficult times.
3. Stay curious, that is how you discover
4. When you help others, you help yourself
5. Do what will help you; do not worry about people’s opinion
Groening’s journey as a student a worker has shaped him into a more focused disciplined and determined person. In as much as it is a hard journey for him but he believes that his sacrifices are worth it. “I may still be on the journey, but I now walk with confidence, knowing that the challenges I face today are building the success I will achieve tomorrow,” concluded Groening.
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