It’s Never Too Late To Learn: Lorel Van Der Byl’s Story

Lorel’s story is one of remarkable resilience and reminds us that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams. She has faced significant personal challenges, from the loss of her first child to navigating financial crises. Despite the hardships, she has remained determined to keep pursuing her goals dreams. 

“I pride myself on being positive. I’ve buried a child. I’ve had triplets. When my husband did an MBA I put myself on the back burner to support him. Life happened, but I didn’t let that stop me. You just get on with it.”

Her ambition and positivity are part of her personality, “I’ve always been proactive and never give up, even when it’s been difficult. Being ambitious is how I was brought up. I always wanted to learn, to prove myself and ensure that I achieved everything I set my mind to.”

Lorel joined WesBank in 1993, just two years after completing matric. It took two decades and the backing of her employer, Innovation Group, before she decided to pursue management studies. 

Studying has been a turning point - professionally and personally. The Higher Certificate in Management and Advanced Certificate in Management have given her confidence to take on new responsibilities. “I wanted to be more visible and leverage relationships inside and outside the company. These qualifications have allowed me to do that. I’m more involved with management and am also now part of a mentorship programme.”

The practical, business-focused course content has also made her a more effective leader. “I now have greater accountabilities and a bigger dealership base.”

At 51, Lorel believes studying has helped keep her mind flexible. “It keeps you young and also allows you to engage deeply with people from different backgrounds and age groups.”

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Lorel attributes much of her success to a strong circle of support; with her family playing the starring role. “You can have the best of intentions but without relying on your support base it’s going to be extremely difficult.” 

“My husband was very happy I was studying, even though it put him under pressure. He stepped up and took on more at home willingly.” Her children have been a source of motivation. "Seeing mom achieve her dreams shows them that they can too.”

Her employer’s interest, encouragement and direct support – especially from line manager, Dave Dawson and the Learning and Development and HR departments - have been hugely motivating; “If someone shows interest or mentors me when I need it, I want to give my best in return.”

Lorel’s journey shows that it’s never too late to pursue education and continue growing personally and professionally. Her qualifications from Milpark Education have transformed her career and her self-confidence. 

Her advice to others? “Be prepared to do the hard work and keep learning - it’s an investment in yourself and your family. See mistakes as learning opportunities. ”

What’s next? “I’m excited to keep progressing and furthering my education. I don’t have a single goal. The sky is the limit!”

Whether you want to advance in your career or balance family and education like Lorel, Milpark Education’s flexible online distance learning can help you achieve your dreams. 

Explore Milpark's range of qualifications and start a journey toward personal and professional growth today. Discover your potential at Milpark – where lifelong learning begins.