Starting a career can feel like stepping into the unknown — and that’s exactly what makes it exciting. In this feature, we follow the Career Journey With Tshegofatso, an energetic and determined young woman who has grown through unexpected paths. Her story is part of our LGG Youth Month 2025 campaign, celebrating the impact of young professionals across Life Green Group.
From Graduate to Administrator: An Unplanned Path
Tshegofatso Lekalakala, now 23, holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with majors in Business, Finance, Marketing, and Human Resources. But her career didn’t follow a straight line.
“Sometimes I ask myself, how did I get here?” she says with a smile. After nine months of applying for work, Tshegofatso joined UD Trucks as a YES (Youth Employment Service) candidate, where she worked as an HR Administrator. There, she uncovered a strength for people skills, organisation, and admin — a discovery that would shape her next move.
In August 2024, she joined Life Green Group as an Administrator in the Life Landscapes Pretoria Maintenance division.
Learning Through Challenges
The career journey with Tshegofatso hasn’t always been smooth. At first, she found the fast pace overwhelming and longed for a quieter environment. But her mindset began to shift.
“Every day brought something new, and I started learning quickly,” she explains. “I used to fear making mistakes, but now I understand that owning up and asking for help is part of growing.”
She credits her team — and especially her manager — for helping her realise that nobody is perfect and that honesty, communication, and respect go a long way in any workplace. “I think I managed to win my manager over — shout-out to Marie!” she says with a smile. Their support has helped her grow into her role, face challenges head-on, and embrace mistakes as part of the learning journey.
Personal Growth and Lessons Learned
Since joining Life Green Group, Tshegofatso says she has learned more about herself than she ever expected.
“I’m stronger and more capable than I thought,” she shares. “I’ve learned that real growth doesn’t just happen in the classroom. It happens when you face tough days and still show up.”
Tasks that once seemed difficult have become her strong points. She’s learned to be adaptable, speak up, and stay teachable — skills she now carries proudly every day.
What Youth Month Means to Her
“Youth Month is about spotlighting the energy and potential that young people bring to the workplace,” says Tshegofatso. “We are creative, adaptable, and bring new ways of thinking. It’s also a gentle nudge for the older generation to embrace technology — one shortcut at a time!” she laughs.
She believes it’s important to give young people opportunities to grow, contribute, and make an impact — just as she’s been able to do.
Leaving a Legacy of Respect and Growth
When asked about an achievement she’s most proud of, Tshegofatso doesn’t mention awards or promotions — she talks about people.
“I still get calls and messages from previous colleagues who say they miss working with me. That means more than any title,” she says. “I always try to be approachable, helpful, and willing to learn. That’s the kind of impact I want to leave.”
The career journey with Tshegofatso shows us that it’s not always about where you start — it’s about how you grow, how you treat people, and how you show up with honesty and heart.
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