At just 26 years old, Jacques Visagie is Danielskuil’s youngest male SmartStart teacher, a role that sets him apart in a field often seen as the domain of women. His journey began in 2020 when, at the age of 20, he joined SmartStart after being introduced to the programme by a community member. Jacques had always known he wanted to be an educator; even as a child in Grade 1, he found joy in playing “teacher” and guiding others. That early passion led him to pursue a 12‑month UNISA course focused on supporting children at risk, preparing him for the responsibility of shaping young lives.
SmartStart, supported by the Lesedi Solar Park Trust, is a social programme that equips local practitioners with training, tools, and guidance to prepare children aged three to five for formal schooling. Jacques completed his five‑day training and set up his own playgroup at home, where he now teaches six learners daily from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. For the Trust, investing in programmes like SmartStart is about more than education, it is to set them up to achieve better learning outcomes throughout their schooling careers, and enable brighter futures.
Jacques admits his family was surprised when he chose early childhood education. They expected him to teach older grades, but he felt strongly that early childhood development was where he could make the greatest impact. “I wanted to help children build their foundation. When my agemates where playing policeman and firefighter I was instructing my play classroom” he explains. His decision also challenged community expectations, as parents were initially unsure about a male teacher in the early years. Over time, however, they saw the care and dedication he brought to the classroom, and their doubts gave way to trust.
Being a male teacher in the foundation phase has not been without challenges. Jacques recalls that some children were hesitant at first, unsure how to respond to a man in a nurturing role. But he quickly showed them that care is not defined by gender. “Children don’t see male or female — they see love and guidance,” he says. His presence has become a powerful example for the community, proving that men can also nurture, teach, and inspire.
For Jacques, the most rewarding part of his work is watching his learners graduate to Grade R. “I feel happy when they head to Grade R because I know they already know the basics. The teacher won’t struggle with them because they are already in routine. Sometimes it feels like a loss to let them go, but I know I’m preparing them to be more successful in their school journey. The bond we build will never break they will always tell others, ‘That’s my crèche teacher.’” Since 2020, Jacques has guided six groups of learners through this journey, each one a testament to his commitment.
Jacques also has a message for other young men: “I would like to encourage all men, even from high school, to consider early childhood development. You can start your own centre, study further, and be part of shaping children’s futures. It’s exciting.” He extends this encouragement to fathers too, urging them to take an active role in their children’s education by helping with homework and building bonds that last.
Jacques’ story is more than personal ,it reflects the vision of the Lesedi Solar Park Trust. By supporting SmartStart, The Trust invests in children’s futures, ensuring they begin life with dignity, opportunity, and hope. Jacques embodies this mission, showing that when men step into nurturing roles, they not only change classrooms but also strengthen communities.