Shaun Maunatlala’s life is proof that determination, destiny, and the power of community can change the course of a young person’s future.
Johannesburg, South Africa (21 December 2024) – Born in Limpopo and raised in Gauteng, Shaun Maunatlala grew up facing challenges familiar to many South African children in underserved areas. Yet, his story shows how education and mentorship can unlock potential in the most extraordinary ways.
From a young age, Shaun’s curiosity and drive set him apart.
“You know, as a kid, I dreamt of building the first transformer. People thought I was mad,” he chuckles.
It was this spark of curiosity that steered him towards an interest in flight and machinery, laying the foundation for a dream career in the aeronautical field.
His journey truly began at Olifantsvlei Primary School, a public school adopted by the Adopt-a-School Foundation, an initiative of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation. Shaun vividly remembers the impact of the foundation’s work, particularly the addition of a library.
“I didn’t fully grasp the importance of it at the time, but one addition left a lasting mark on me: the library,” he recalls.
It was there that Shaun discovered a book on astronomy. That single encounter ignited a fascination with the mysteries of the universe and dreams of one day working in the skies.
Shaun’s leadership skills didn’t go unnoticed. He was invited to be the learner MC at one of the foundation’s fundraising events, where he met then Vice-President Cyril Ramaphosa and Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga. Their words of encouragement, coupled with his mother’s unwavering belief in him, became his compass.
“My mom held onto their promise, reminding me with every report card,” Shaun says with gratitude.
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This steadfast determination earned him an invitation to apply for support from the Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET), a programme dedicated to empowering students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Shaun initially dreamed of studying aeronautical engineering at Wits University, but CRET introduced him to the Mega Aero Training Academy (MATA), a leading institution for aircraft engineering.
“I had no idea they were going to make me a guinea pig,” Shaun laughs.
“They had never funded someone in my situation before. But they believed in me, and that made all the difference.”
Under the guidance of MATA and CRET, Shaun excelled. The rigorous training opened doors to real-world opportunities, becoming part of the FlySafair team, allowing him to work alongside experienced professionals and hone his skills.
“I’m often the youngest on the team, but they trust me with responsibilities that are usually reserved for seasoned crew members. It’s overwhelming and humbling,” he shares.
Shaun credits both the Adopt-a-School Foundation and CRET for their pivotal roles in his journey.
“Adopt-a-School gave me the confidence to share my voice and pursue my dreams,” he says. “CRET provided financial and emotional support, guiding me during moments when I felt lost.”
The story of how a promise made by Cyril Ramaphosa and Angie Motshekga to a 10-year-old kid was honoured a decade later stands as a shining example of mentorship and community impact.
Shaun’s message to young dreamers is filled with hope and conviction: “Whatever your dream is, no matter how crazy it seems, it only feels that way because of others’ limitations. You won’t know your potential until you try.”
His parting words are a call to action for anyone doubting their own uniqueness: “Normal is boring. If God didn’t make you ordinary, why be normal? Be extraordinary!”
Yes, be extraordinary!
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