Juggling Joy and Hardship: Kaylan-Lee’s Journey of Growth

When you meet Kaylan-Lee Windvogel, a Care Facilitator at Bonnievale Primary, her quiet strength and calm confidence are immediately evident. But what lies beneath is a story of perseverance, purpose and a deep belief in the power of learning.

For 12 months, Kaylan-Lee did what many would consider impossible. She balanced full-time work, motherhood and a demanding academic course, and not only completed it, but did so with grace, insight and growth.

A New Chapter

Through our partnership with the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, and with additional private support, Community Keepers helped 38 Care Facilitators study toward a formal qualification in social auxiliary work. Kaylan-Lee was one of them.

“Completing a social auxiliary course while being a working mother has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life,” she shares. “Over the past year, I discovered that with determination and the right support system, it’s possible to excel in multiple roles.”

Time became a precious commodity. Between school runs, sessions with learners, coursework and family dinners, every day required planning and presence. Yet for Kaylan-Lee, the sacrifice was worth it. Her role as a Care Facilitator proved to be more than a job, it became a classroom of its own.

Learning in the Field

“The practical skills I use every day in my work aligned so well with what we were learning in theory,” she explains. “That connection made the transition smoother. I wasn’t just studying, I was living it.”

This blend of real-world experience and academic knowledge gave her a unique advantage. It deepened her understanding and allowed her to bring fresh insights into both her studies and her work at school.

One of the most powerful aspects of the journey, she says, was studying alongside colleagues who shared similar challenges.

“Group projects and practicals weren’t just about ticking boxes. They built strong bonds. We were a team of people who understood the weight of responsibility, both at work and at home. That mutual understanding and respect created a supportive learning community.”

The Power of Community

Kaylan-Lee’s journey echoes a wider truth we see at Community Keepers: when individuals are given the tools to grow, the impact ripples outward. Her achievement isn’t only personal. It’s part of a larger story about the power of access, opportunity and collective care.

Thank you to our funders, partners and team who made this learning journey possible.