Elsie Harmse

What does your company do?

Our purpose is centered around guiding individuals towards their purpose, thereby creating lasting impacts in their respective industries. While training and education are essential components, our primary aim is to empower the next generation with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their fields. We are deeply committed to job creation, and through strategic partnerships with industry leaders in both the public and private sectors, we ensure that each of our students finds meaningful avenues to fulfill their purpose

What is your biggest success?

Elsie Harmse, CEO of UXi Artisan Development and founder of Africa Skills Private College in George, has made a transformative impact on vocational education and skills development in South Africa. Under her visionary leadership, Africa Skills has trained nearly 17,000 artisans, with more than 80% of graduates successfully securing employment or launching their own businesses. A major achievement under her direction was the launch of South Africa’s first Renewable Energy Workshop Assistant training program in 2023. Backed by the Energy and Water SETA and the Garden Route District Municipality, this pioneering initiative equipped 40 learners with vital skills to enter the growing renewable energy sector. Elsie’s dedication to quality, accessible education has earned her widespread recognition. She was awarded the Business Person of the Year award in 2015 as well as Business Leader award in 2022 by the George Business Chamber. Africa Skills has also received a Certificate of Recognition from the Western Cape Premier for its contributions to workplace-based learning, along with a National Silver Award for Best Practice in Skills Development from CHIETA. A learner graduating from Africa Skills is a huge highlight for the staff and the learner alike and for that learner is able to create a sustainable life, not only for themselves, but for their family and community as well.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

Elsie Harmse has faced many challenges in her journey as a leader in vocational education, but she describes her biggest hurdle as witnessing the socio-economic impact on learners who are unable to complete their training. It’s heartbreaking to see a learner with so much potential being forced to “drop out” - not because of their ability, but due to the financial hardship, family pressure, or lack of support. When a learner can’t finish their qualification, it doesn’t just affect them - it creates a ripple effect that touches families, communities, and ultimately, our economy. This emotional and systemic barrier continues to drive Elsies’ mission to create accessible, inclusive, and sustainable education solutions to attempt and then to ensure that no capable learner is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.