Gladness Mohlala

I am a 3rd year Bachelor of Education student at the University of Johannesburg, majoring in Sepedi Home Language and Learning Needs. For me, teaching was taken just as a career at first but later got changed by both my love for language and my commitment to making sure every learner gets a fair opportunity to succeed.

During my teaching practicals, I realised that many learners struggle not because they can’t learn or want, but because their diverse learning needs are not supported. I’ve seen classrooms where teachers end up labeling learners as being disruptive and disrespectful, which led to the learners falling behind. This experience made me passionate about inclusive education and about equipping myself with the knowledge and skills to identify and support different learning needs.

As a future educator, my goal is to create an inclusive learning environment where learners' need are the priority and the main focus is their strength. And their diverse needs not seen as barriers. I believe that when we teach with awareness and empathy, we give every child the opportunity to thrive. I’m committed to continuing to learn, grow, and advocate for learners who need someone to see them and support them.