Gift Makathini described his youth as a “mess with no goals or dreams” until he took a crucial step and joined Love Howick’s Dream Centre programme.
Howick, South Africa (20 November 2025) – Raised by a single mother after his father passed away when he was eight, life was initially challenging for Gift Makathini.
He recalls leading a life that was directionless, “a mess with no goals or dreams”, in his younger years before joining Love Howick.
It was through joining the community organisation’s Dream Centre programme that a veil was lifted from Gift’s eyes, revealing a world of possibilities he’d never imagined.
“Joining the programme changed everything. I went from zero to hero,” Gift says.
Through hard work and the comprehensive training offered by the Dream Centre, Gift successfully completed the Work Ready, Barista, Hospitality, and Baking courses. The support didn’t stop there: Love Howick also helped him secure a job at a senior living village in Howick, where he spent 1.5 years thriving as an Assistant Chef, waiter, and barista.
With renewed purpose and a clear vision, Gift is today making the most of his life and living his dream in the hospitality industry.
“I thank Love Howick for helping me become a better man.”
He encourages other youth in the community of uMngeni to visit Love Howick and enrol for a programme.
The Dream Centre houses Love Howick’s professional skills courses, including Work Readiness, Micro Business, Computer Literacy, Office Admin, Hospitality, Baking & Catering, Barista, Sewing, Retail, Beauty and Crop Production, to name a few.
This ecosystem of theoretical and practical training, student counselling and mentorship, a job centre to help bridge the gap between employers and prospective recruits, and a special focus on ‘giving back’ through volunteer hours, creates a pathway for the unemployed to develop their potential.
Gift’s story is an inspiring example that change is possible and opportunity awaits anyone ready to take charge of their future.
“If you work hard and follow their guidance, your life will never be the same – I promise you,” Gift encourages.
If you are or someone you know in uMngeni is looking for direction and a brighter future, you can apply to the Dream Centre here.
To support this programme, you can make a donation here.
Sources: Love Howick
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