From Passion to Professionalism - Tshegofatso Rakwena's Journey through the YES Programme to Creative Success

At just 22, Tshegofatso Rakwena found herself at a crossroads. Living in Bramley, Gauteng, and equipped with a degree in photography, she was eager to dive into the creative world. However, her enthusiasm wasn't enough to translate into career opportunities, and months of unanswered job applications left her uncertain about her future. That all changed when she joined the YES programme in 2023, sponsored by Pizza Hut and hosted by Tilt Culture.

A Career Turning Point

The YES programme became a pivotal moment in Tshegofatso’s life. Through extensive training in photography, videography, illustration, and graphics, she sharpened her craft and built an impressive portfolio. The programme offered her mentorship and practical experience, allowing her to gain industry connections and work on real projects. This exposure opened doors to exciting opportunities and laid the foundation for her future career.

Building Tshegosview

Upon completing the YES programme, Tshegofatso launched her own freelance photography and content creation company, Tshegosview. Although the journey was challenging—especially learning new skills like videography and video editing—her passion for the craft kept her going. Her determination helped her overcome initial obstacles, and she began to find her footing in the industry.

Recent Successes

Tshegofatso's growth is evident in her achievements. She recently secured her first corporate gig with Demographica, a milestone that boosted her confidence. Additionally, she won second prize for her photograph titled "Love" at an exhibition hosted by Sanlam and YES. These accomplishments affirmed her belief in her capabilities and fueled her ambition for future projects.

Looking Ahead

Now 23, Tshegofatso’s journey is defined by a commitment to learning and growth. She has not only developed her creative skills but also gained valuable insights into the business side of her work, including the importance of registering her company.

Tshegofatso envisions opening her own photography studio or gallery to showcase her work and support other young artists. Her experience with the YES programme has ignited a desire to contribute to the creative community, and she hopes to inspire others to follow their passion, just as she has.

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