How Lerato Became the Leader Her Team Needed: And How You Can Do the Same by Simply Asking
Lerato had been working as a team coordinator at a manufacturing firm in Gauteng for four years. She knew her work inside-out. Her team trusted her. Her manager relied on her. But when a supervisory role opened up in her department, someone else was promoted.
She smiled and congratulated them—but deep down, Lerato was discouraged.
“I realised I wasn’t being overlooked because I couldn’t lead. I just hadn’t spoken up for myself,” she recalls.
It was in that moment Lerato had her realisation.
The Turning Point: Speaking Up for Herself
She had heard about the Certificate in Supervisory Development (CSD) from a colleague and took ten minutes to read the course brochure. It ticked every box she’d been missing:
- Formal recognition of the leadership skills she was already using informally
- Practical modules on communication, team dynamics, time management, and decision-making
- A flexible, 12-month format that wouldn’t interfere with her work
- A nationally accredited qualification (NQF Level 3) that would unlock her career
So she did something she hadn’t done before—she booked a meeting with her manager and made a case for her growth.
How Lerato Advocated for Herself (and Got the Green Light)
Here’s how Lerato approached her conversation with confidence—and how you can do the same:
Step 1: Prepare with Purpose
She printed the course overview and highlighted key benefits:
- National Certificate in Management – SAQA ID 83946
- Accredited by Services SETA (Acc. No. 1468)
- Strong alignment with her daily responsibilities: supervising teams, handling conflict, improving communication
“I wanted my manager to see this wasn’t just for me—it would help the entire team,” she says.
Step 2: Frame It Around Business Value
Instead of focusing only on personal goals, Lerato positioned the course as a strategic advantage:
- “This will help me improve productivity on the line.”
- “I’ll be better equipped to handle team issues before they escalate.”
- “We’ll gain a leader who knows how to manage, not just complete tasks.”
Step 3: Make It Easy to Say Yes
She proposed a realistic way to manage her workload alongside her studies and offered to share insights with colleagues after each module. She even prepared a short summary document for her manager to send to HR.
The Result
Not only did Lerato get approval—her manager thanked her for being proactive.
Six months into the programme, she’s leading her team with confidence. Staff turnover has dropped. Communication has improved. And she’s on track for her next promotion.
“The course gave me more than skills. It gave me belief. I feel seen now—not just as a worker, but as a leader.”
Ready to Do the Same?
If you’re a team leader, supervisor, or foreman—or aspire to be one—now is the time to take the next step in your career.
Here’s how to get started:
- Download the Course Summary Pack to present to your manager or HR
- Book a call with our team for guidance on your internal pitch
- Enrol today and start building your leadership credentials
Your next opportunity starts with one clear conversation.