Participants of life coaching have shown grit and determination to grow their confidence and achieve their goals
Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of coaching an incredible group of individuals through the Life Coaching for people with disabilities programme – a bold, forward-thinking initiative made possible by QASA. Their support created space for real transformation. And what a journey it’s been!
Delivered through The World Within, my coaching platform, the course began as a short-term intervention, but quickly became a powerful shared experience of resilience, growth and self-discovery. Life coaching isn’t about fixing the past. It’s about unlocking potential in the present.
It’s a conversation rooted in respect and possibility, where we explore who you are today and chart a path forward. It’s about rediscovering choice, reclaiming voice, and reigniting hope, one step at a time. I want to share a few of the stories from the participants to celebrate their progress and also encourage anyone wondering whether life coaching could make a difference in their own lives.
Building confidence
Let’s start with Sophie Moloko Pula, a young woman with drive and determination. Sophie found meaningful employment during the course but continued coaching, which stood her in good stead. In her words: “Life coaching has positively impacted my work. It helped me build commitment and confidence in my daily responsibilities.”
“I’ve become more dedicated and was trusted by my colleagues to lead follow-ups for our Mandela Day celebration. We secured sponsorships and partners for the event through teamwork and communication. Life coaching has changed how I view things, improved my leadership skills and helped me make better decisions.”
After coaching, Sophie was asked to deliver a speech in Parliament. She accepted and said: “I would never have been able to deliver a speech in Parliament if it was not for life coaching.”
Sophie is also a provincial wheelchair basketball player for Limpopo. The programme helped her believe in her ability at work and on the court. That confidence now shows in everything she does.
Finding oneself again
Another remarkable story is Busiswa Mbizafa, founder of Artizan Naturals which produces all-natural hand cleaners and moisturisers. When she started the programme, Busiswa struggled with low self-esteem and felt voiceless. That began to change.
“Before life coaching, I didn’t believe in myself; not in my abilities; not in relationships; not in anything. I felt lost and disconnected. My disability made me feel limited by it,” she said. “Through life coaching, I found myself again. I discovered my worth, built confidence, and learned to love myself. I now know that my disability is not who I am, it’s just a part of my story.”
“Today I walk with self-belief, knowing I am capable, worthy, and full of potential,” she added. Busiswa is now re-engaging with an Agri-Biotech Incubation Programme to grow her company.
Stepping into power
Maria Xolelwa from the Eastern Cape (EC) plays wheelchair basketball for the EC Angels. When she joined, she was unsure of herself and lacked confidence. Through the coaching journey, Maria stepped into her power. She now trains with focus and purpose, and carries a quiet courage that’s visible in how she moves through the world, on and off the court.
In her words: “I was unsure about myself. I now feel more motivated and have a clear sense of direction. I have developed more positive mindset about the future since completing the life coaching programme.”
Shift in perspective
Zama Nxumalo gained confidence and a new perspective. She shared: “In just three weeks, I’ve experienced a profound shift in my confidence and perspective. As a person with a disability, I’ve often felt like my limitations defined me.”
“However, having a coach who understands the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability has been a game-changer. His empathy, guidance and support has helped me see myself in a new light.”
We also have Joseph Rantho, who runs his own NPO, and Sipho Mashishi, who now volunteers at a special school. Each of them found their own voice and way forward through the programme.
Dedication to the change
Some students attended sessions from their cars. Others sat outside in the freezing wind during load shedding. Many had no power in their homes for days. But they showed up. They made a plan. They refused to let anything stop them. And that’s what I want future coaching clients to understand. You don’t have to start strong. You just have to start.
Advice for future clients
Bring your real self. Life coaching isn’t about pretending to be okay. It’s about being honest and open even when life is messy. You don’t need perfect conditions or fancy equipment, just a smartphone or laptop and an internet connection.
If you have a dream, even a small one, life coaching can help you nurture it and bring it to life by learning how to set proper goals and a fail-safe way to achieve them.
This course wasn’t just about goals or action plans. It was about heart. It was about community. It was about discovering that your story matters and that your future is still wide open and in your hands.
