Mr. Jones is a previously disadvantaged disabled South African national from the Durban area. He had a near fatal motorcycle accident in 1990 that left him paralyzed in the legs due to a spinal cord injury. He managed to recover with enough mobility to re-enter the market and now walks with the aid of crutches. His disability has not allowed him to return to his prior skills in mechanical fitting because of the physical nature of the work.
His positive mindset led him to pursue business projects for independent provision in a self employed capacity. He has an entrepreneur spirit and is a visionary and strategist, whose gifts are best put to use in spearheading and managing projects. This coupled with a firm foundation in Christian ministry and being a registered member of the South African Association of Christian Counselors has allowed him to function as a first line counselor within Jirah Projects. His working history shows how he has developed skills, ability and experience over the years in enterprise development projects nationally and in neighboring countries alike.
Jirah Projects was founded by Ian’s passion to make a difference in his community. He was determined not to be held back by his personal challenges. Ian is instrumental in creating opportunities for the youth through education and training. He uses his life lessons of overcoming the odds through his own journey of personal growth and healing, to teach the youth valuable life lessons. “It takes more than an education to become successful in life”says Ian. Jirah learners are given a chance to discover their full potential through Education, Training and Whole Person Education.
Jirah Academy produces the highest number of distinctions than any campus in the country, per group of 50 learners, who started as below average learners. Most of these distinctions are in Engineering Mathematics and Science. Our approach also assists those with learning disabilities to become qualified as artisans and achieve their goals in life.
“Our strategic collaborations with industry, education and training bodies including various organs of the state working together contributes to Jirah’s success”says Ian.