Sibongiseni Makeleni writes
Background
Masibulele Saba, known as Masbu, is a 36-year-old man from our rural community. He is semi-skilled in car body work but never had formal education or qualifications. In 2022, when I first met Masbu, he was unemployed, sitting at home without hope, like many others trapped in the cycle of poverty, limited opportunities, and lack of direction.
How Tangible Africa Changed His Life
I invited Masbu to accompany me during Tangible Africa’s coding workshops. Although he was not part of the coding classes, I was intentionally exposing him to an environment of learning, problem-solving, and purpose. Through observing the problem-solving approach of coding, he started to develop critical thinking and personal growth.
At the same time, I applied for him and a few others to study Business Management through NYDA, which he successfully completed. From2022 to February 2025, I continued to mentor and coach him, helping him apply problem-solving skills not only to coding but to his personal life and ambitions.
Transformation
He told me he can do panel beaten, I said start repairing people’s cars with no profit at first, he did this at no profit; his focus was on building skill, trust, and experience. Over time, he developed the confidence and capability to take the next step.
Today, Masbu is renting his own small workshop at Viegiesvalle, close to the N2 Road, in marketplace. He now runs his small car body repair business independently with 1 employee. He has shifted from being hopeless and unemployed to becoming a problem-solver and entrepreneur, creating his own income and future.
Though he was never a formal intern or paid staff member, he was drawn by the positive change he experienced and witnessed in our coding workshops. His transformation stands as living proof of the real-life impact Tangible Africa is making, not only in learners but in entire communities.
Conclusion
Masbu’s story shows that the impact of Tangible Africa goesfar beyond coding skills, it builds problem solvers, restores dignity, andunlocks hidden potential even in people who never thought they could succeed.This is the kind of change that transforms entire communities.
His Facebook name is Masbie Carefully Saba
