15/10/2024
Gratitude
Dear colleagues, dear students, and friends, family, past, present and future, even those I
have not met yet.
As I stand here today on my 60th birthday, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. It is a
milestone not only in years but in the journey that I’ve walked, shaped by the experiences,
challenges, and triumphs of my life.
I was born right here in Cape Town on October 15, 1964. Growing up in Hanover Park from
the age of five, I experienced first-hand the unique dynamics of life in a community with its
own set of struggles and strengths. It was here that my foundation was built, a place where
resilience, hope, and the spirit of community were essential.
Through the years, I witnessed the significant transitions that shaped South Africa—the fight
against apartheid, the dawn of democracy in 1994, and the immense social changes that
followed. Our country’s journey to freedom and equality has been a path of endurance and
courage, and I am proud to have lived through such defining moments.
But, of course, the world around us has also transformed in unimaginable ways, especially in
technology. I remember when computers were a rare and fascinating sight. Today, they are an
integral part of our daily lives, changing how we communicate, work, and think. From the
early days of dial-up internet to the era of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, I’ve
seen technology evolve at a pace no one could have predicted. And it has been my privilege
to help guide others through these advances, particularly in my role as a computer facilitator.
Beyond the borders of South Africa, my journey took me to South Korea and Taiwan, where
I worked and learned in environments that challenged me to grow personally and
professionally. Those experiences broadened my perspective, giving me the tools and
confidence to return to South Africa and share what I had learned.
Now, I stand here in Delft, at the Don Bosco Deft Skills Training Centre, teaching young
adults not only how to use technology but also how to approach life with curiosity and
resilience. It’s a privilege to be part of an institution that believes in empowering others
through education. My students, you inspire me every day with your determination and your
drive to succeed.
As I reflect on my journey, I realize that each experience, whether personal or professional,
has been a stepping stone to where I am today. I am thankful for my growth, the lessons I’ve
learned, and the people who have walked this path with me.
To my colleagues, thank you for your support and companionship. To my students, never
stop learning, never stop growing, and never stop believing in the power of education. You
are the future, and it is bright.
Thank you.
Randall Nipper
