Lindelwa Mahlalela: Enabling Positive Change Through Education

From our Blog CoffeeMM

In a world where access to education can shape destinies, support for gaining these opportunities is important. However, for many young people barriers within the application process can lead to them choosing the wrong courses or not applying at all, perpetuating the generational curse of not pursuing higher education.

Inspired by this pressing challenge that young people face, and after facing it herself, Lindelwa Mahlalela set off in a relentless pursuit to simplify the pursuit of tertiary education with the creation of LeeConnect. In August we celebrated Women’s Day and the role that women have played in shaping our country and, in this feature, we demonstrate the continuing power of young female entrepreneurs to change our world.

The Power of Education as a Catalyst for Change

When asked why education is so important, Lindelwa explains that it is an investment in oneself and that, “no one can take it away from you.” Lindelwa’s love for education started at a young age, with its importance being emphasised in her household. This developed into Lindelwa’s belief in education’s ability to catalyse positive change, a statement that can be proven through observing LeeConnect’s impact.

Quote from Lindelwa Mahlalela that reads, "“When you are educated, you can change all the frustrations you see happening around the world, because you will be well informed about what you can do and how you can try and help. Then, every difference that you make is big.”

The impact of LeeConnect is evident, not only in the students they work with directly but also in the communities of these students. There have been multiple LeeConnect users who are the first in their families to pursue tertiary education or get a matric certificate, which, in turn, inspires the members of their households and communities to pursue higher education.

A Holistic Solution: Creating a Network of Support

For Lindelwa, the hard work is worth it when she sees the impact that LeeConnect has. Since its creation in 2018, LeeConnect has assisted more than 13,700 students in South Africa with their university applications. Additionally, LeeConnect is currently developing an app that will build on its current offerings and exponentially increase the reach of those who can use the service, while also looking planning to expand operations to other African countries.

An unexpected outcome of LeeConnect has been the supportive network formed amongst its users, where they have witnessed older students stepping into mentorship roles for younger students. The often overwhelming and isolating experience of applying for tertiary education and not having someone in your community to assist you is being transformed into an opportunity for students to connect and collaborate, creating communities of change agents.

This essence of collaboration and working together is important to Lindelwa and, when reflecting on her experience as a young female entrepreneur, she encourages other entrepreneurs to focus on collaborating rather than competing. “When working together, there are opportunities to learn from each other,” she says.

Balancing Passion and Purpose

The concept of LeeConnect is very time-intensive and until recently was run by Lindelwa alone. Lindelwa’s dedication to providing accurate advice involves countless hours of research into universities and programme outlines, balanced on top of working and studying full time – showing that if you want to do it, nothing can stand in your way.

Quote from Lindelwa Mahlalela that reads, "No on can do it like me and that's my superpower."

This does not mean that it doesn’t get tough and exhausting, and Lindelwa emphasises the importance of maintaining her mental state by setting boundaries with clients and sustaining a positive outlook on life, which she does through instilling self-belief with positive affirmations and recharging through journaling and hiking.

In Honour of Her Mother

Photo of Lindelwa and her mother. — Picture of Lindelwa and her mother.

Lindelwa dedicates the following message to her mother who supported her entrepreneurial journey:

“As we celebrate Women’s Month, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude and admiration for everything she does. Her unwavering support and guidance have been the driving force behind my business ventures. Her encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love have helped me navigate every challenge and celebrate every success.

She is the epitome of strength, resilience, and determination. Her influence has shaped me into the person I am today, and I couldn’t be more thankful.”

Conclusion

LeeConnect is more than just an online platform; it’s a place for dreams to be nurtured, aspirations ignited and futures shaped. Lindelwa’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication and belief in oneself and, as LeeConnect continues to grow and expand, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire countless others to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world.

Rapid Fire:

Lindelwa’s Quote for Dark Days:

“I believe in the sun, even when it is not shining” My heart holds onto hope, even when the sun hides behind clouds. I embrace the promise of love, even in solitude. And I stay devoted to education and furthering my studies, despite the struggles and financial burdens that accompany it.

Lindelwa’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

Start where you are with what you have and everything else will just fall into place. If you wait until you have all of the resources, you won’t have any experience and it won’t align. Don’t be afraid to fail. It’s not the end of the world, and in many cases, it’s the beginning of a new opportunity.

Lindelwa’s Favourite Hot Drink:

Hot chocolate with lots of marshmallows.