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In a landmark effort to foster resilience and self-reliance, over 31,000 South Africans have graduated from the "Tools for Life" skills development program delivered by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers over the past five years. Offered entirely for free, the program empowers individuals to build sustainable livelihoods, improve community well-being, and inspire hope in the face of modern challenges.
Founded on a commitment to uplift communities, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers began providing these workshops in 2019 at Castle Kyalami. Driven by a vision to foster grassroots empowerment, they have trained thousands of South Africans from all walks of life. “Tools for Life” has reached educators, unemployed youth, business leaders, community developers, healthcare workers, and many more across the nation, proving that practical, accessible skills can ignite meaningful change.
The "Tools for Life" program covers an extensive range of skills, from conflict resolution and communication to youth empowerment, financial ethics, and overcoming barriers to learning. Every lesson equips participants with practical tools to tackle life's challenges, build confidence, and foster growth.
“Our program is a gift of service to our country,” says Sandile Hlayisi, Chairperson of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. “The transformations we have witnessed are a testament to the power of these simple yet profound skills. Graduates have launched successful businesses, improved educational standards, and created new opportunities for themselves and others.”
Graduates' testimonials bring these successes to life, showing how the program has touched every corner of South Africa. Boitumelo Maswanganye, a resident of Soshanguve, turned her concern for literacy into action. Inspired by the Tools for Life program, she began an after-school initiative for children struggling to read. “It not only rehabilitates learners who have given up but encourages them to pursue further studies," she says. "Children who once couldn't read are now achieving over 90% in school tests. It’s magical.”
Reverend Phampha William Ramodike, Deputy Principal from Limpopo, used the program’s teachings to transform his school into the highest-performing in his district. “The skills I gained—communication, conflict resolution, achieving goals—were exactly what I needed to elevate my learners and community,” he explains. "It was as if God led me to the right place at the right time."
From Despair to Hope: A Journey of New Beginnings
For many, like Irene Moemise, the program provided a lifeline in a time of need. After losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moemise struggled despite her Master’s degree. "The Tools for Life program gave me a sense of direction and purpose," she says. With newfound confidence, she opened Le’Bakery in Meadowlands, a thriving bakery that has quickly become a community favorite. “I went from being unemployed to an employer, turning my passion into a business that feeds my community and my soul.”
These powerful stories are just a glimpse into the impact of "Tools for Life." Each week, new graduates share their journeys, describing how they have turned dreams into reality and found ways to uplift their families and communities. “We welcome everyone, regardless of their background,” says Hlayisi. “This training is for all—it transcends religion, profession, race, and circumstance. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed.”
With over 31,000 South Africans now trained through the 19 "Tools for Life" courses developed by renowned humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers aim to continue expanding their reach. “True empowerment begins when individuals realize they have the power to change their own lives,” Hlayisi emphasizes. “That is the essence of ‘Tools for Life’—equipping people with the skills to thrive.”
As they look to the future, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are committed to bringing this life-changing program to more communities across the country, believing it to be a crucial part of their role in fostering hope, resilience, and positive change in South Africa.
Contact Info:
Name: SANDILE HLAYISI
Email: Send Email
Organization: CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY SOUTH AFRICA
Address: Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: +27 061 907 9325
Website: https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/
Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkUy2jrjNOc
Release ID: 89140944
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