Seen Here: Engen CSI Manager Olwethu Mdabula (left) celebrates the success of ICT graduate and entrepreneur Natasha “Tasha” Moonsamy (second from left), alongside Pontsho Matshediso of Engen (second from right) and Thando Husha of Dlama (right). Moonsamy, who completed two nationally recognised ICT qualifications through Engen’s Global Citizen Development Programme, has launched Tasha’s PC Repairs, turning her passion for technology into a thriving business while inspiring more women to pursue careers in the ICT sector. Photo Credit: Supplied
DURBAN – What started as a lifelong curiosity about technology has evolved into a promising entrepreneurial venture for Natasha “Tasha” Moonsamy, a young woman from Merewent who is breaking barriers in the information technology sector while inspiring other women to pursue careers in STEM.
As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, Moonsamy’s journey stands as a powerful example of how education, determination and skills development can transform lives and create sustainable economic opportunities.
Raised on Clausia Road in Merewent—an area affectionately known as Noddy Town—Moonsamy has always been driven by a desire to learn. Today, that passion has culminated in the launch of Tasha’s PC Repairs, a growing business providing affordable computer repair and technical support services to her local community.
Her entrepreneurial journey was made possible after completing two nationally recognised Information and Communication Technology (ICT) qualifications through Engen’s Global Citizen Development Programme (EGCDP). She successfully obtained an IT Technical Support (NQF Level 4) qualification and an IT Systems Development (NQF Level 5) qualification, graduating in March this year.
Armed with industry-recognised skills and practical experience, Moonsamy has turned classroom learning into a business that offers a wide range of technology solutions, including hardware repairs, component replacements, battery replacements, computer upgrades, storage expansion, file transfers, professional file organisation and comprehensive PC clean-up services.
“The course opened my mind to so much more,” Moonsamy said.
“I enjoyed everything about it. The theory challenged me to think differently, while the practical side was amazing because I got to work with my own hands. I loved it so much that it inspired me to start my own PC repair business.”
Building confidence through education
For Moonsamy, the programme delivered more than technical expertise—it provided the confidence to enter an industry where women remain underrepresented.
She believes the qualifications have significantly strengthened her employment prospects while equipping her with the skills needed to pursue both entrepreneurship and a professional career in information technology.
“This ICT course gave me skills that employers are looking for,” she said.
“It also built my confidence and strengthened my CV. I now have the technical knowledge and certification to apply for entry-level IT jobs.”
Like many aspiring technology professionals, the journey was not without challenges.
Moonsamy recalls initially struggling with coding, technical terminology and unfamiliar industry concepts. However, perseverance, practical experience and support from facilitators helped her overcome those obstacles.
“The most difficult part was adjusting to all the new technical terms, jargon and concepts, especially learning coding,” she explained.
“But with practice and help from the facilitators, it became easier. It also taught me how to manage my time effectively.”
Breaking barriers in technology
While continuing to expand Tasha’s PC Repairs, Moonsamy has ambitious plans for the future.
She hopes to further specialise in cloud computing, networking and cyber security before eventually pursuing another lifelong ambition—becoming an information technology educator and mentor.
“I want to help mentor other young women in technology and teach others so they can gain knowledge and skills in this remarkably fast-growing field,” she said.
Her story reflects the growing role women are playing in South Africa’s digital economy, challenging outdated stereotypes and demonstrating that the technology sector offers limitless opportunities for women with the determination to succeed.
Investing in women, investing in communities
Engen Skills Development Facilitator Pontsho Matshediso says Moonsamy’s achievements highlight the life-changing impact of investing in education and practical skills development.
“Natasha’s journey reminds us that when young women are given access to quality education and practical skills, they gain the confidence to create opportunities for themselves and others,” said Matshediso.
“Her success shows how skills development can unlock potential, inspire entrepreneurship and help build stronger communities.”
Engen CSI Manager Olwethu Mdabula echoed those sentiments, emphasising that empowering women through education remains central to the company’s community development initiatives.
“Supporting young women to gain industry-relevant skills and pursue careers or entrepreneurial opportunities in technology helps drive inclusive economic growth,” Mdabula said.
“We are proud to see graduates like Natasha using their training to build successful futures while contributing to their local communities.”
A message of empowerment
As the country commemorates Women’s Month, Moonsamy hopes her journey will encourage other young women to pursue careers in technology without fear or hesitation.
“Believe in yourself and take up space,” she urged.
“Don’t let anyone tell you something is not for you or that you can’t do it. We are capable, we are smart and we belong in every room, no matter which field that may be.”
For her, Women’s Month is not only about celebrating the achievements of women today, but also about paving the way for future generations.
“It is about honouring the women who came before us while creating opportunities for those who will come after us,” she said.
“Keep pushing, never stop growing and never stop moving forward. The sky is the limit.”
As South Africa continues to prioritise digital transformation and economic inclusion, stories like Natasha Moonsamy’s demonstrate that when young women are equipped with relevant skills, mentorship and opportunity, they can become innovators, entrepreneurs and role models who uplift entire communities.
