„Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu“ words popularised by Nelson Mandela, but to me, I will always remember them as a teaching my father and grandfather would tell me, every chance they had.
Today, I truly believe that my success thus far has not only been because of my hard work and determination, but also the coming together of two countries and the sacrifices my family has done.
For those of you that may not know me, my name is Christopher Kock, a coloured South African, born and raised. My life had its very unique set of challenges, but I am privileged unlike many other young, coloured men, to have grown up with both my parents and be raised in a loving, nurturing household. To have parents that put their children first before themselves.
Through my parents sacrifice, and hard work I was able to attend, what I think is one of the most prestigious schools in South Africa, the Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg.
But why exactly the German school? My parents saw the opportunity that a international education and learning a new language would provide for me in the future.
Looking back on it now, them sending me to that school was one of, if not the biggest turning point of my life.
Currently, I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics at the Deggendorf Institute of Technology, in Bavaria Germany. In addition, I am also taking part in a dual study program with Bühler GmbH, where I am not only earning a salary in tandem with my studies but also further enhancing my skillset by applying what i learnt into practice.
I have also managed to secure a scholarship with the organisation BayBids, who provide funding for international students who have not only shown exceptional academic achievement but also social engagement, and for this I am grateful.
With this I can live completely independently from my parents. Since November 2024, my parents have not spent a cent or accumulated debt on my studies, my food, my housing or anything related to studying abroad. This was always one of my biggest goals after Matric, and at 19 years old I was able to realise that goal.
Thanks to the German language and the teachings South Africa has brought me, I am in a position where I am able to push my life and that of my family’s forward.
But most importantly, with this initiative, I truly believe that I would be able to help many focused and diligent young people in South Africa, to achieve their dreams.
As a young person of colour, I hope that my journey can prove testament that anyone can make it abroad, and cultivate the lives that they want. If you are hardworking and determined, there is a way for you to make a name for yourself in a different country, without having to go into financial ruin.
So I urge many young German speakers, and their parents, to not be put off by the fear of money. There are ways to get around it!
When there is a will, there is a way, and in the long run this journey you are about to embark on will benefit you and your family for years to come.
The Mission
Servus Mzansi aims to provide South African youth, who are interested in developing their careers within Germany, with all the necessary information on all things regarding studying, apprenticeships and day-to-day life in Germany.
The Vision
Servus Mzansi sees itself as the bridge between South Africa and Germany for youth development. By giving aspiring students, skilled workers and professionals the tools they need to get started, we can reinforce the unification between two great countries.
Youth unemployment has plagued South Africa for years and still does to this day, at numbers you couldn’t even imagine. Over half of all youth in South Africa are unemployed. Such a statistic sticks out on our beautiful rainbow nation like a sore thumb.
It’s no wonder people are seeking opportunities elsewhere, but not everyone has the means to just up and leave.
The world has been moving global for some time now and is continuing to do so. Countries are seeing the value other cultures can provide within their own borders, especially with young, ambitious skilled workers. It is time for South African youth to take things into their own hands and use this global opportunity to create the lives that they want.
My ultimate goal for this platform is to not only give you all the steps you need to make it to Germany, but to also drive more investment into South African youth. The plan is to advocate for our youth and bring more of you to the rest of the world, or to bring the world and job opportunities to you in South Africa.