A day that was meant to be a celebration for me— but everywhere I look, all I see are tear-filled eyes.

This story is based on true events.

The HR department called me and told me to proceed to their office for an interview, submit my requirements, and do a demonstration teaching session. It was when I applied for my very first job.

When I arrived at the school, I felt like walking in a park. The place wasn’t unfamiliar to me since I had enrolled there for my National Certificate. That sense of familiarity made me calm.

I prepared my laptop, my projector, and the topic I was about to discuss. I enjoyed my session so much. It was very engaging and relatable. It feels light and fulfilling when you’re prepared and fully committed to what you’re doing. Standing in front of the panel, I saw myself in that moment, thinking, This is it. This was part of the plan. This was my dream—to be an educator. And it felt amazing.

After a couple of minutes, the...