By Mzukona Mantshontsho
SpecCon Academy is on a mission to prepare school learners for the real world by combining quality education with future-focused skills. SpecCon Academy offers learners access to accredited online learning and provides opportunities to acquire career-ready skills while still in high school. SpecCon Academy is not just about academics — it’s about giving learners a head start in life. SpecCon Academy is where school meets the future. SpecCon Academy helps learners build confidence, stay motivated, and prepare for a rapidly changing world of work.
SpecCon Academy platform includes:
- CAPS-aligned subjects
- Extra academic support
- Life skills and digital literacy
- Career guidance
- Opportunities to earn industry-recognised certifications.
I recently spoke with Hein van der Westhuizen, Founder and Managing Director at SpecCon, about his personal, professional, and entrepreneurial journey thus far.
How did your upbringing lead to your journey at SpecCon today?
I was raised with the mindset that if you want to achieve something, you have to work hard for it. I studied hard to achieve my current position and picked up valuable life lessons along the way—lessons about discipline, resilience, and staying focused. That’s a big part of what drives me at SpecCon now. I want to create opportunities for young people to learn those same lessons, so they too can build a future they’re proud of.
What is your view in terms of success in Entrepreneurship?
At SpecCon Academy, we see entrepreneurship as a vital skill – not just a career path. We believe that all learners, regardless of their background, should be exposed to entrepreneurial thinking from a young age. It builds creativity, problem-solving, independence, and resilience – all essential for success in today’s world. Entrepreneurship is more than starting a company – it’s about thinking differently, leading yourself, and being future-ready. That’s why we integrate entrepreneurial thinking into our learning approach – so learners can dream, plan, and take action.
Tell us about your early life to your role today
I grew up in Witbank and attended Reynopark High School, where I developed a strong work ethic and early ambition. My parents played a big role in shaping my journey—they were both supportive and inspiring, and they encouraged me to pursue a professional career. I always had a goal to become a Chartered Accountant (CA) and eventually run my own business. After school, I went on to varsity where I completed my degree, laying the foundation for the career I have today.
What does your role mean to you?
My role at SpecCon Academy is more than just a job — it’s a responsibility and a purpose. I see myself as a bridge between opportunity and potential. Every day, I have the opportunity to help shape the future of young people by providing them with access to quality education, relevant skills, and the confidence to succeed — whether in further studies, the workplace, or their businesses. At the heart of it all, my role is about unlocking possibility — and that’s something I take seriously, with passion and pride.
What are the most critical resources for your successful leadership?
The most important resources for my leadership are people, purpose, and perspective. I believe good leadership starts with the right team — people I can trust, share ideas with, and learn from. Having a clear purpose also helps me stay focused, especially when things get tough. At SpecCon Academy, our purpose is to help young people grow and succeed. I also value perspective — being open to feedback, learning new things, and understanding different points of view. Tools, technology, and time to plan also make a big difference. But at the heart of it all, leadership is about serving others and helping them do their best — and that’s what I try to do every day.
What can we expect from you going forward since you started?
I officially started the SpecCon Academy initiative in June 2025. Since then, it’s been about building strong foundations — from our systems and learning platform to our learner support and partnerships. As we move forward, you can expect consistency, innovation, and genuine impact. I’m focused on expanding our reach, enhancing the learner experience, and ensuring that every student who joins us leaves with confidence, skills, and opportunities. You can expect better tools for learning, stronger school partnerships, more entrepreneurial and career-focused content, and a team that truly cares about our learners’ futures. This is just the beginning — and I’m fully committed to taking SpecCon Academy to the next level.
What are your words of advice for young people, particularly women, to take that first step and start community projects or small businesses?
My advice is simple: start where you are, with what you have. Don’t wait until everything is perfect — it never will be. If you see a need in your community or have an idea that excites you, take that first step. It doesn’t have to be big. What matters is that you begin. To the young women especially: your voice matters, your ideas are powerful, and your community needs your leadership. Don’t let fear, doubt, or the opinions of others stop you. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, stay curious, and keep learning as you grow. Most importantly — believe in yourself even before others do. Every big dream starts small, and with consistency and heart, you can make a real difference.
What are your thoughts on COVID-19 in terms of small businesses? What measures should business owners take to protect their businesses if another pandemic were to hit?
COVID-19 was a challenging time for small businesses, teaching us important lessons about being prepared and flexible. Many businesses had to adapt quickly, move online, and find new ways to reach their customers. If another pandemic were to strike, small business owners should prioritise building robust online systems, saving for emergencies, and diversifying their income sources. It’s also important to invest in skills, stay connected with customers and staff, and be part of support networks. Above all, strong relationships and effective communication can help businesses navigate challenging times. Being ready, staying informed, and remaining adaptable are key to protecting a business in any crisis.
What is the legacy that you would want to leave when you retire?
When I retire, I want to leave a legacy of empowerment and opportunity. I hope people will remember that I helped create pathways for young learners to believe in themselves and reach their full potential. I want to be known for building a community where education is accessible, relevant, and inspiring — a place that doesn’t just teach subjects, but prepares people for real life and meaningful careers. Most importantly, I want to leave behind a culture of care, integrity, and passion that continues to uplift future generations long after I’m gone.
How does your work DIRECTLY contribute to the school community?
My work directly supports the school community by providing learners with quality education and practical skills that help them succeed both in and out of the classroom. I help create learning programmes that are easy to access and relevant to today’s world, which boosts learner confidence and engagement. By offering extra support and career guidance, I also help students make informed choices about their futures. This enhances the entire school environment by fostering achievement, motivation, and a positive outlook for all learners.
What have been your highs and lows of your career?
One of the greatest highlights of my career has been growing a company from a single person to over 100 employees in just 10 years. What makes it even more rewarding is that many of those team members came through learnership programmes—we’ve seen real success stories where people have grown personally and professionally within the business. On the low side, there have been moments where people were offered support or got involved with good intentions, but over time, their actions didn’t align with the values or direction of the business. Those situations are always difficult, but they’ve taught me the importance of protecting your vision and staying true to your purpose.
When you’re not at work, what do you get up to, and where can people follow the program online?
Outside of work, I’m an avid golfer and cyclist—it’s my way of staying active and clearing my head. I’m also a proud husband and father of three, so family time is incredibly important to me. Whether it’s weekend outings or just relaxing at home, I really value that quality time.
