Sifiso Mdumbe from Braamfischerville in Soweto is the first in his family to obtain multiple degrees and work overseas.
Growing up in a community where there is high rate of youth parenting, gangsterism and unemployment, did not deter a youth from Braamfischerville, Soweto to achieve his goal of becoming an English teacher in public schools in South Korea.
Sifiso Mdumbe’s teaching skills are strengthened by his determination to succeed beyond expectations and the two degrees he obtained at the University of Johannesburg - Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Chemistry and Honors in Chemistry. He is the first in his family to obtain multiple degrees and to work overseas.
Last month, marked a year since his relocation to South Korea and he communicates with his family and friends in South Africa via video calls.
Sifiso Mdumbe celebrates his achievement with his family.
Speaking to the Diary Series of Deaf People whilst in South Korea, overjoyed Mdumbe said, “My advice to the young people staying in Soweto is to not let their background hold them back and to seize every chance they get. Patience and perseverance pay off, and they can do anything they set their minds to.”
“The saying, 'you must do what others don't, to achieve what others won't' motivated me throughout my academic years. Since no one in my family completed their higher education, I've always known that if I wanted things to turn out differently, I would need to work hard, stay focused, and not let anything around me get in the way of achieving my goals,” Mdumbe said.
“I enrolled at the University of Johannesburg in 2018 and finished my undergraduate program in 2021, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Chemistry degree. I enrolled in the same university in 2022 and finished my honours degree in chemistry. I still think that education has great power, and I am looking forward to continuing with my studies. I'm going to keep exploring my potential and career possibilities.”
Mdumbe said:
He said 2022 proved to be the most difficult year for him as he worked as a chemistry tutor at the University of Johannesburg and tutored physical sciences at a private company at the same time, to raise funds for his relocation to South Korea.
“I was working and studying at the same time because I wanted to relocate abroad. I was able to raise the money I needed for both the plane tickets and the paperwork necessary to get my visa. I had a lot on my plate during that time, working two jobs, doing interviews, and preparing paperwork. Although the process of preparing the documents was a bit hectic, I did not let it derail me.”
His purpose has always been to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Therefore, he knew that teaching English overseas would help him achieve that.
Sifiso Mdumbe outside Seoul in South Korea.
“In addition, I wanted to explore my passion for education, knowledge sharing, and experiencing different cultures while gaining more valuable experience. I love meeting people from different cultural backgrounds. You learn about other cultures, languages and customs when interacting with people from other cultures.”
He added that, “Since English is not a language that is commonly spoken in South Korea, creating and maintaining a community is crucial. I had to get used to the transportation system, which made the first few weeks of my adjustment quite difficult. I'd say that I've adapted rather well, however I'm still working on my Korean language skills and mainly rely on translation Apps when I need assistance. The fact that Koreans are so friendly and eager to help also adds to how comfortable my stay is. I've already picked up some useful skills and a strong work ethic, and I can't wait to share them with others when I eventually decide to return to South Africa and find employment at home.”
Sifiso Mdumbe at Geoje Island in South Korea
Mdumbe is an alumnus of Bukho Bami youth development and empowerment centre in Dobsonville. He attended extra lessons at the centre at Grade 11.
“At the time, there weren't many programs that offered extracurricular activities, learner development, and extra classes. My parents couldn't afford to send me to programs where students had to pay to attend afternoon or after-hours lessons. When I found out about this opportunity, I was thrilled and made the decision to seize it completely. My performance significantly improved, to the point that I was recognised with three awards in 2016 at the Bukho Bami youth center.
“I was ranked second in the top 10 and received an award for being the best performing learner in the Science stream and in physical sciences. Then, a few years into my time in university, I received an additional award, naming me the best ambassador, indicating that I had continued to represent the center well beyond high school. My experience at Bukho Bami was amazing, it helped me develop my reading skills and self-esteem,” he said.
