Empowering Differently-Abled Learners Through Portable Skills
Home – Success Stories – Overcoming Barriers: Michael Lessman’s Journey
Success Stories
Overcoming Barriers: Michael Lessman’s Journey
From 2020 to 2024, Train The Nation & Associates has remained committed to delivering real, usable skills to community members through our Portable Skills Training Programme. We believe that physical challenges should never be a barrier to economic independence, and our training is specifically designed to be inclusive, ensuring that learners with disabilities have access to self-employment and dignity.
A Story of Resilience: Michael Lessman
Michael Lessman, a student from the Beeshoek community, serves as a powerful example of how tailored support can transform lives. Despite facing physical handicaps, Michael joined our intensive Poultry Course from November 8th to 19th, 2021.
Throughout the training, Michael’s determination was evident. He was noted for listening attentively during the Business Skills Presentation, proving that with the right environment, differently-abled learners can excel in both the technical and administrative aspects of farming.
The Face of Success
The transition from learner to producer was rapid. By January 2022, just two months after completing his training, Michael successfully slaughtered his first batch of broilers. Today, he stands as “The Face of Success,” showcasing the high-quality produce that is possible when community members are empowered with the right tools and training, regardless of their physical limitations.
Partnering for Inclusive Impact
Michael’s success was made possible through our partnership with leading mining operations. Portable skills training is a core component of Social and Labour Plans (SLP), helping mines invest in sustainable livelihoods that prioritize inclusive community development.
Our training has been delivered in partnership with operations including:
- Beeshoek Mine
- Cullinan Diamond Mine
- Impala Gold Mine
- Glencore (Eastern & Western Limb)
- Exxaro – Newcastle
Empowering Through Poultry Farming
Poultry Farming remains one of our high-demand disciplines because it offers a sustainable, home-based enterprise with manageable mobility requirements. By providing each graduating learner with a toolkit—ranging from livestock to feed—we ensure they are set up for immediate success.
Michael Lessman’s story is a testament to how technical trades and small-business-oriented skills can create multiple ways for differently-abled community members to generate income and achieve independence.
Our Clients
Partner with Us to Design Your Next Portable Skills Project
If you are planning a portable skills or community development initiative for your mine or organisation, we can help you design a programme that is:
- Needs‑driven and data‑based
- Aligned to POPIA, SETA and QCTO requirements
- Tailored to your SLP, LED or CSI strategy
- Focused on measurable, sustainable impact
