Women MonthTurning a Passion for Technology. Women’s Month is an important time to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and determination of women who are creating new opportunities for themselves and their communities. Natasha “Tasha” Moonsamy is one such example. A resident of Merewent, Durban, Natasha has transformed her passion for technology into a growing computer repair business after completing nationally recognised ICT qualifications through Engen’s Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP).
Natasha grew up in Clausia Road in Merewent, an area affectionately known as Noddy Town. From an early age, she enjoyed learning new things and developing practical skills. Her interest in technology eventually led her to pursue formal ICT training, giving her the knowledge and confidence to enter the technology sector.
From ICT Training to Entrepreneurship
Natasha completed two ICT qualifications through the EGCDP: IT Technical Support at NQF Level 4 and IT Systems Development at NQF Level 5. She graduated from the programme in March 2026.
The training provided her with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Instead of simply viewing the qualifications as a way to improve her employment prospects, Natasha used the skills she developed to establish her own business, Tasha’s PC Repairs.
Her business provides affordable computer repair and technical support services to people in her local community. These services include PC hardware repairs, upgrades, component replacements, battery replacements, computer clean-ups, storage upgrades, file transfers to external drives, and professional file organisation.
For Natasha, the practical nature of the course played a major role in inspiring her entrepreneurial journey.
She explains that the course opened her mind to new possibilities. Although the theory challenged her to think differently, she particularly enjoyed the practical work because it allowed her to work directly with computer hardware and develop hands-on skills.
Overcoming Challenges in Technology
Like many people beginning a career in information technology, Natasha faced challenges during her studies. Technical terminology, unfamiliar concepts, and coding initially proved difficult.
Learning new technical jargon required patience and regular practice. With support from programme facilitators and continued effort, however, she gradually became more comfortable with the material.
The experience also helped Natasha develop important personal skills, including time management, problem-solving, and confidence.
Her training has strengthened her CV and provided her with industry-recognised qualifications that could help her pursue entry-level employment opportunities in the IT sector.
Encouraging More Women to Enter Technology
Natasha’s story highlights the importance of creating opportunities for women in technology. The ICT and broader technology industries continue to offer career opportunities in areas such as software development, networking, cloud computing, cybersecurity, technical support, and systems administration.
For Natasha, gaining technical skills has not only created a potential career path but has also given her the confidence to become an entrepreneur.
Her experience demonstrates that women can play an important role in technology businesses and technical professions. With access to education, practical training, mentorship, and employment opportunities, women can develop skills that contribute to both personal economic independence and community development.
Future Goals in IT
Although Natasha is currently focused on developing Tasha’s PC Repairs, she has ambitious plans for the future. She hopes to specialise in an advanced area of information technology, with cloud computing, networking, and cybersecurity among her interests.
Another important goal is to share her knowledge with others. Natasha wants to eventually teach information technology and mentor young women who are interested in entering the technology sector.
Her ambition reflects a desire not only to build her own career but also to help others gain the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue opportunities in a rapidly changing digital economy.
Importance of Skills Development
Engen Skills Development Facilitator Pontsho Matshediso says Natasha’s journey demonstrates the long-term impact that skills development can have on young people.
When individuals receive access to quality education and practical training, they can gain the confidence needed to create employment opportunities for themselves and potentially for others. Natasha’s transition from student to entrepreneur is an example of how vocational and technical education can contribute to economic participation.
Engen CSI Manager Olwethu Mdabula also emphasises the importance of empowering women through education and skills development. Providing women with industry-relevant skills can help them pursue careers, launch businesses, and participate more actively in the economy.
Natasha Message to Women
For Women’s Month, Natasha has a simple message for other women who may be considering a career or business in technology: believe in yourself.
She encourages women not to allow stereotypes or other people’s opinions to limit their ambitions. According to Natasha, women have the ability to succeed in any field when they are given opportunities and are willing to develop their skills.
Her message is particularly relevant to young women who may feel that technology is a field reserved for men. Natasha’s own journey demonstrates that determination, education, practical experience, and confidence can help challenge those perceptions.
Story of Opportunity and Determination
Natasha Moonsamy’s journey from an ICT student to a PC repair entrepreneur shows how education and skills development can open doors to new opportunities. Through her training, she gained technical knowledge, professional qualifications, practical experience, and the confidence to establish her own business.
As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, stories like Natasha’s demonstrate the importance of supporting women who want to build careers and businesses in technology.
Conclusion
Her journey is still developing, but her ambitions extend beyond personal success. By hoping to mentor and teach other young women, Natasha aims to help create a new generation of skilled technology professionals.
Her story offers an inspiring reminder that learning a new skill can be the beginning of something much bigger. With determination, practical knowledge, and the courage to pursue new opportunities, a passion for technology can become a successful career—or even a thriving business.
