'My parents have been a rock in my journey'

Prince Bhebhe blogs about values and the importance of strong role models

Prince Bhebhe is a Specialist Practitioner with Forward Leeds and has kindly written a blog as part of his involvement with the Trust’s Workforce Race Equality Network (WREN):

“Hi, my name is Prince Bhebhe and I am writing this personal blog to acknowledge and highlight the inspirations in my life who are my parents to encourage and inspire any readers with my journey.

“My parents have been a rock in my journey to where I am now. I continue to strive to reach new heights in my professional as well as personal life. I always remember a quote that signifies the power of my parents in my life which is “behind every young child who believes in himself is a parent who believed first”.

“Whilst I was studying for my undergraduate degree, I left home and lived in accommodation near the university where I was studying. The motive behind moving out was to become independent. It was my first time moving out of my parents’ home and it was a big step but I had felt ready for the challenge. The challenge was something that I had discussed before deciding with my supportive parents. There were some sacrifices that I had to make to survive such as working whilst studying. I was lucky enough to get a job that was linked to what I was studying which meant that I was enhancing my skills and knowledge as well as earning the extra cash to pay my bills and study costs.

“My parents were very supportive of me and had offered their hand to help out whenever I had required such help. They were understanding of the difficulties that I had faced with balancing studying as well as working and were always there if I needed them. The whole experience of moving out was eye-opening and one that taught me so much about myself. I can genuinely say that the experience even helped me become a better practitioner.

“When I finally finished my degree and graduated, I felt a sense of accomplishment. This feeling of accomplishment was more for the joy I had brought to my hardworking parents who sacrificed so much for me to have the best education and opportunities. How I operate and conduct myself in the world, I have inherited from my parents.

“Growing up, it was instilled upon me the importance of education and how I must ensure to work hard to create a successful future for myself and my family. I understood from an early age that to achieve anything in life, I must have the drive to make a change and take any opportunity given to me with both hands. My parents have always ensured that wherever I am in my life, I do not lose these values and teachings by constantly ensuring I do not take anything for granted in life.

“I would also like to give a special mention to the late Khulisani Nkala who continues to be a massive role model to me. I appreciate the values and teachings he bestowed upon me and the time he took to mentor me and show me how far I can go in my career with the values instilled upon me by my parents.

“My advice to anyone is to follow your passion and don’t ever look back. Never be scared to partake in something that is not in your comfort zone and be the difference that you want to see in the world.”