My Journey Through SEH Mentorship Program

In the past twelve weeks, I participated in the transformative STEM Empowerment Hub Mentorship Program. Enrolling during the school holidays allowed me to fully immerse myself, with each week offering new lessons, challenges, and breakthroughs.

Week-by-Week Reflections

Weeks 1 & 3_Vision & Identity: These opening weeks helped me reconnect with my purpose and values. I explored what drives me, clarified my goals, and began shaping a mindset rooted in impact and resilience.

Weeks 4 & 5_Effort & Execution: I learned the power of consistent effort and how to turn ideas into action. During this time, I also completed an internship at the Ministry of Home Affairs, where I was assigned to prepare overtime salary spreadsheets. This experience sharpened my technical skills and gave me valuable exposure to real-world operations.

Weeks 6 & 7_Systems Thinking: These sessions introduced me to the importance of structure and sustainability. I learned how to build systems that support long-term growth—skills I now apply to both academic and personal projects.

Weeks 8 & 9_Practice & Progress: These weeks were a turning point. I earned a certificate in AI from Udacity, expanding my understanding of emerging technologies and their potential to solve real-world problems. The mentorship program encouraged me to apply this knowledge with purpose and creativity.

Weeks 10 & 11_ Community & Impact: I connected with a vibrant network of mentors and peers who share a passion for STEM and innovation. These relationships have become a source of inspiration and support, reminding me that I’m not alone in this journey.

Week 12_Culmination & Gratitude: As the program concluded, I took time to reflect on how far I’ve come. From technical growth to personal development, this experience has equipped me with tools that will guide me for years to come.

Highlights & Achievements

• Completed an internship at the Ministry of Home Affairs, contributing to payroll operations.

• Earned an AI certificate from Udacity, deepening my understanding of cutting-edge technology.

• Strengthened my leadership, communication, and strategic thinking through weekly mentorship sessions.

• Built lasting connections with mentors and peers committed to STEM-driven change.

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To the STEM Empowerment Hub team: thank you for creating a space where young minds can grow, explore, and lead. Your mentorship has been a catalyst for my development.

To my fellow mentees: your energy, ideas, and support made this journey unforgettable. I’m proud to be part of a community that values purpose, effort, and excellence.

As I move forward, I carry the lessons, relationships, and confidence gained from this program. The mentorship may have ended, but its impact continues to shape my path.

Here’s to building quietly, impacting boldly, and empowering consistently.

Sweet Success: My Transformative Internship at Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation

As a student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the University of ESwatini and a proud member of the STEM Empowerment Hub, I recently embarked on an exciting internship journey at the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation. This experience has been nothing short of amazing, and I can't wait to share the highlights with you.

From day one, the RES team welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a valued member of their community. The opportunity to work alongside experts in the agricultural industry has been invaluable. Through hands-on experience, I've gained a deeper understanding of the various processes involved in sugar production, as well as the challenges faced by the industry and innovative solutions being developed to address them.

One of my most notable achievements during this internship was designing a pump station using AutoCAD software. This challenge truly allowed me to shine and demonstrate my problem-solving skills. Additionally, I had the chance to be involved in various construction activities, where I applied my knowledge of land surveying principles, welding, bearing replacement and earthmoving operations. These hands-on experiences not only honed my technical skills but also strengthened my confidence and ability to adapt in real-world situations.

Furthermore, being part of the STEM Empowerment Hub as a social media manager has allowed me to share my passion for agricultural engineering with a wider audience. I have had the privilege to connect with fellow students, professionals and enthusiasts, fostering meaningful relationships and collaborations that will continue to benefit me as I progress in my career.

In conclusion, my internship at Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation has been an incredible learning experience. It has provided me with a strong foundation to build upon as I complete my studies and embark on a career in agricultural engineering. I am immensely grateful to the RES team and STEM Empowerment Hub for their guidance and support throughout this journey.

To fellow students and aspiring engineers, I highly recommend seeking out internships that align with your interests and goals. It's an excellent way to gain practical experience, network with industry professionals and grow both personally and professionally.

As I look forward to what the future holds, I'll always remember my time at RES and the invaluable lessons I've learned. This journey has allowed me to turn my "diamond in the rough" moments, like designing a pump station and working on various construction activities, into invaluable experiences that will shape my future as an agricultural engineer.