Passion, Dedication, and Love for Training People

Passion, dedication, selflessness, and love for people are essential to being an effective facilitator and trainer, according to Bongani Magagula, one of Avo Vision’s longest-serving financial and entrepreneurship trainers.

Bongani joined Avo in 2015 as a trainer within the financial education division. Over the years, he has trained thousands of people in Mpumalanga.

“I don’t think I will ever do anything except working with people. It’s something that I was born to do, and it fulfills me. That’s why I have dedicated my life to making a difference in people’s lives as a trainer and facilitator,” Bongani explains.

Impactful Financial Education Training

Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated team, Avo has trained 40,969 people so far in 2024. Their Financial Education programmes serve as a beacon of support, offering practical, real-world strategies to help individuals and families secure their financial futures.

Avo’s mission is to actively solve South Africa's key challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment through sustainable investment in community education, life-skills training, and supporting enterprise development.

Commitment to Making a Difference

The father of two girls and a boy share that although his role is demanding and comes with many responsibilities, he feels honoured to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of ordinary people.

“Over the years, I have seen people change their lives because of the financial education that we share with them. Some even started small businesses that are now thriving and giving young people employment,” he adds.

Inspiration from His Roots

Bongani was born and bred in Mbombela, formerly known as Nelspruit.

“I think it’s growing up in this poverty-stricken province that has influenced me to take this career path. As an entrepreneur myself, I always wanted to assist other people in doing something for themselves, like starting a small business so that they can provide for their families.”

Before joining Avo, the 28-year-old worked for Childline, a non-profit organisation that helps children and teens who are victims and witnesses of violence or abuse.

A Journey of Growth

Avo Vision Project Manager, Antoinette Mthetwa, expresses pride in Bongani’s development as a trainer over the years.

“Seeing Bongani grow into the exceptional trainer he is now has been a true pleasure. His dedication to empowering others is inspiring; it’s evident in the positive impact he’s made on countless lives,” Antoinette says.

Personal Interests

During his spare time, Bongani unwinds by watching rugby.

“It’s a sport that’s physical, it needs dedication and all the strength to succeed. Maybe in my next life, I will be a rugby player,” he says with a smile.