Amahle Nzama

About Me

I am a third-year student teacher at the University of Johannesburg, majoring in IsiZulu and History. I am deeply passionate about both disciplines because they have played a significant role in shaping my identity, confidence, and understanding of the world.

Growing up in a home where historical, linguistic, and political stories were regularly shared, I learned from an early age that knowledge has the power to empower, inspire, and transform lives. These conversations encouraged me to think critically, appreciate diverse perspectives, and better understand both myself and the society around me. It is through these experiences that my love for IsiZulu and History was cultivated.

As an aspiring educator, I believe that learning is a lifelong journey. I consider myself a constant learner who is always seeking opportunities for growth and self-development. One of the things that makes me unique is my commitment to exploring new interests and challenging myself in different ways. Last year, I developed a passion for tennis, which eventually led to me becoming a member of the University of Johannesburg Tennis Club. This year, I am learning how to skate and cycle, and I am excited to see where these new pursuits will take me.

For me, these hobbies are not about external rewards or recognition. They are opportunities to build confidence, develop resilience, and satisfy my natural curiosity. This philosophy also influences my approach to teaching. During my teaching practicals, I actively encourage learners to ask questions, explore ideas, and embrace curiosity. Having grown up in environments where curiosity was sometimes viewed negatively, I understand the importance of creating spaces where learners feel safe to wonder, investigate, and learn.

Beyond my practical hobbies, I enjoy reading and learning about feminism, different religions, belief systems, and diverse worldviews. These interests stem from a desire to better understand humanity and the experiences of others. I believe there is still a significant need for thoughtful, balanced conversations around feminism and religious literacy in society, and I value opportunities to engage with these topics in ways that promote understanding, respect, and inclusion.

My ultimate goal as an educator is to create a classroom that is inclusive, welcoming, warm, and diverse—a space where every learner feels valued, respected, and capable of success. More than anything, I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of the learners I teach and to be remembered for creating environments where people felt seen, heard, and empowered.

My personal motto is:

"Be the person you always wanted growing up."

This motto guides both my personal and professional life. If given the choice, I would always choose to spend time with people who can teach me something new. I love learning, engaging with different perspectives, and being challenged to think about things I have never considered before. Every conversation, experience, and opportunity to learn is another step in becoming the educator and person I aspire to be.