Forging a Future: Petrus' Transformation Through Skills Training
From Grinder to Artisan: Petrus' Journey through the Try Easy Welding Program
“It was not easy — as the name might suggest — but it was worth it and fruitful.” – Petrus Sootho Mofokeng.
In a world where opportunities are often hard to come by, one man’s passion, determination, and resilience paved the way for transformation. Meet Petrus Sootho Mofokeng, a determined learner from Vanderbijlpark, Vaal, whose love for welding and desire to grow led him on a powerful journey with Try Easy Electrical Solutions through the AgriSETA-funded Artisan Development Program.
The Spark: How It All Began
Petrus began his career journey with foundational welding training at Sedibeng Artisan Skills Training Centre, where he mastered various welding processes. He later gained real-world experience through shutdown jobs with companies like FSE Heavy Engineering and Malitech Engineering, working as a grinder and assisting with CO₂ and plate stick welding. But he knew he needed more than experience — he wanted recognition.
“I fell in love with welding and needed to become a qualified Artisan. That’s where Try Easy came to my rescue,” Petrus stated.
Getting Hands-On with Try Easy
Like many learners, Petrus had his doubts in the beginning.
“At first, it felt like I never welded before. But with support from our facilitator, Mr. Tlome, and fellow learners — I got my groove back,” he explained.
Teamwork, safety, and mutual respect became core values during the program. It didn’t just sharpen his technical skills — it shaped his character.
“We learned how to live and work together with focus, skill, and professionalism — values I’ll carry for life,” he added.
Skills That Transform, Confidence That Carries
Petrus was enrolled in an Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) program, which helped him close his skill gaps and unlock new career opportunities. Through this rigorous training, he mastered a range of welding techniques and applications, and confidently passed multiple welding tests. The ARPL program not only recognized Petrus’s existing knowledge but also provided structured learning to enhance his expertise and qualify him as a skilled artisan.
“Now, I walk onto shutdown sites with confidence. My supervisors notice my performance and safety behaviour — and that recognition means everything.” – Petrus Mofokeng
For skilled workers like Petrus, ARPL programs are transformative, turning years of workplace experience into recognized artisan status, enhancing both confidence and employability in competitive industries.
Opportunities Unlocked
Since completing the program, Petrus has applied his skills in real job settings and noticed the difference in both his performance and how others perceive him.
“I’m doing much better than before. My dream now is to land a long-term role with a leading company where I can grow, earn well, and master all welding processes,” he mentioned.
Reflections: A Program That Builds More than Skills
Petrus is most proud of passing his trade test and growing as both a person and a professional. He believes Try Easy delivers more than just training.
“At Try Easy, we became one big family. Anyone who joins this program will leave with more than just skills — they’ll leave with a new sense of purpose and professionalism,” he noted.
Gratitude That Says It All
“I want to give thanks to Try Easy for making me the Artisan I am today. It wasn’t easy — but it was worth it,” he said.
Petrus’ journey is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets opportunity. Try Easy Electrical Solutions, in collaboration with AgriSETA, continues to empower learners like Petrus — one artisan at a time.
Are you ready to start your journey as a qualified tradesperson? Click here to enroll: @Opportunity Seeker Enrolment Form