Loeriesfontein Community Members are Shining Examples of Community Support Initiatives

Two Loeriesfontein community members, Leona Ruby Du Plessis and Mirko Klaasen, are thriving in their careers, showcasing the positive impact of education, dedication, and community support. Their journeys highlight how targeted opportunities for skills development and employment can transform lives and contribute to the growth of Loeriesfontein. 

Leona Ruby Du Plessis is dedicated to both her career growth and the development of young learners. Having joined Loeriesfontein Primary School as a COVID-19 screener under the Department of Education in 2019, Leona progressed into a teacher assistant position in 2022.  In 2024, she joined the Mathematics Curriculum Online Programme, which is funded by Khobab Wind Farm, as a part-time online maths class assistant, where she oversees the school's tablets and supports Grade 3-7 learners' during their online mathematics periods. 

In addition to her role at the school, Leona is pursuing a Law degree (LLB), funded partially by the NSFAS bursary. Her part-time work enables her to cover additional university expenses beyond what the bursary provides, helping her progress toward her legal career aspirations. 

"I learn so much from the children and their approach toward math. The programme instils a positive attitude toward the subject that’s truly contagious. The joy they feel when they master a concept inspires me to keep nurturing their love for math. Assisting them has shown me that math is more than just a subject—it has many dimensions, and it’s a privilege to help and encourage them as they discover its possibilities," said Leona.  

Mirko Klaasen, another inspiring Loeriesfontein community members, enrolled in the Wind Turbine Technical Training programme, also funded by the wind farms, in 2021, gaining essential skills in renewable energy. 

Mirko's commitment quickly paid off as he was offered a position with Obelisk, a Siemens Gamesa subcontractor, where he worked for two years. In 2023, his consistent performance and dedication led to a permanent role at Siemens Gamesa, making him a valued asset in the renewable energy sector.

"I am grateful to have been part of this programme because I got to learn a lot about safety and how to work securely. As soon as I started working hands-on in the turbine, everything I had learned in college and during training came together," said Mirko.