30/04/2026
MONTH-END MOTIVATION - STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Port Elizabeth TVET College proudly highlights the inspiring journey of one of its previous students, Nomzamo Steven, the founder of Zamo Legacy Enterprises (Pty) Ltd, Zamo Rising Stars International Academy, and Mzansi Bread Bakery.
Nomzamo Steven is an entrepreneur based in Gqeberha, South Africa. She is the founder of Zamo Legacy Enterprises (Pty) Ltd, Zamo Rising Stars International Academy, and Mzansi Bread Bakery.
She studied NCV Level Hospitality at Port Elizabeth TVET College, Russell Road Campus. Although she was unable to complete her studies due to financial constraints, her time at the College played a significant role in shaping her career path.
Her experience at the College was valuable and insightful, providing her with a strong foundation in hospitality and exposure to the industry. She was motivated to pursue this field due to her passion for service, working with people, and creating meaningful experiences.
During her studies, she developed essential skills such as discipline, customer service, communication, teamwork and professionalism, all of which continue to guide her in her career. She also credits several lecturers for their encouragement and for helping her believe in her potential.
Despite facing financial challenges that prevented her from completing her qualification, she remained determined and continued to learn through practical work experience and industry exposure.
After leaving the College, she entered the hospitality industry and worked as a waitress, where she gained valuable hands-on experience and built her confidence. She further enhanced her skills through practical training opportunities, including international experience in Germany, which contributed significantly to her professional growth.
Nomzamo Steven currently manages multiple initiatives, including Mzansi Bread Bakery and Zamo Rising Stars International Academy. Through these platforms, she focuses on empowering young people with hospitality skills, service excellence and confidence.
Her entrepreneurial journey was inspired by her own experiences and the challenges she observed among young people who lack access to opportunities. This motivated her to create initiatives that support and uplift others.
Although she did not complete her studies, her time at the College provided a solid foundation and industry exposure that helped shape her entrepreneurial journey.
She is also the author of Service to Success – Waitron Training Manual for South African Youth, a resource aimed at equipping young people with practical knowledge, confidence and skills required in the hospitality sector.
In addition, she runs Mzansi Bread Bakery and, in 2025, she achieved 5th place in the Standard Bank Entrepreneurship Competition, a notable recognition of her business efforts.
In her view, TVET Colleges play a critical role in South Africa by offering practical, hands-on training that prepares students for real workplace environments and contributes significantly to skills development.
Her advice to current students is to start where they are, use the resources available to them, and remain committed to continuous learning. She emphasises that success does not require a perfect journey but rather resilience, consistency and self-belief.
Nomzamo Steven’s journey demonstrates that determination and perseverance can lead to meaningful success. Despite facing challenges, she has built impactful initiatives that not only support her own growth but also create opportunities for others. Her story serves as an inspiration to students and aspiring entrepreneurs across South Africa.
