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From Iron Man Dreams to Construction Management: The Inspiring Journey of Matthew Saunders
Matthew Saunders, a driven and ambitious student from Princeton High School, embarked on a transformative journey through the Go for Gold programme. Originally passionate about mechatronics and inspired by the technological genius of Iron Man, Matthew’s path took a new turn during his Workplace Learning Internship (WLI) with Stefanutti Stocks. Today, he’s pursuing a diploma in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying at CPUT, with dreams of one day becoming a senior site engineer and contract manager.
Finding His Voice Through Leadership Development
Matthew’s quiet demeanor underwent a remarkable transformation through the leadership and life skills classes provided by Go for Gold. He reflected, “The training helped me find my voice. I realized the type of thinker and leader I am, and I became someone who inspires others instead of waiting for motivation.”
These classes also taught Matthew responsibility, accountability, and time management, traits he applies daily in his studies and personal life.
Discovering a New Passion
Initially set on pursuing electrical engineering, Matthew entered the WLI programme with an open mind. His first task—managing stocktaking of scaffold materials—was challenging but gave him a taste of the hands-on work he would grow to love. Over time, the experience on-site cemented his desire to build a career in construction.
“Experiencing site work firsthand during tough and high-pressure tasks showed me the beauty and thrill of construction,” Matthew said. “I knew this was where I belonged.”
This newfound passion led him to shift his focus to construction management, a decision fueled by his desire to combine leadership with the practical knowledge gained through the internship.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Like any journey, Matthew’s path wasn’t without its hurdles. One of his greatest challenges came during his tertiary studies when he had to retake a subject he had neglected in 2023. Reflecting on the setback, he said, “I lost an entire year of my life, but I used it as a lesson. Now, I remind myself of who I want to become and how blessed I am.”
Working as a pre-graduate student at Stefanutti Stocks while continuing his studies, Matthew has turned these challenges into opportunities for growth.
A Future in Construction Management
Matthew’s long-term career goals are ambitious but grounded in his passion for construction. Within five years, he envisions himself as a senior site engineer and hopes to pursue a master’s degree in construction management.
He credits the Go for Gold programme for helping him define these aspirations. “Go for Gold is more than a programme—it’s a family and support structure that changes lives,” he shared.
Paying It Forward
Matthew’s gratitude for the programme is evident in his desire to share its benefits with others. He actively promotes Go for Gold to students in his community, hoping to inspire the next generation of leaders. “It’s my goal to show others how this programme can transform their lives, just as it has transformed mine,” he said.
Matthew Saunders’ journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, hard work, and the courage to embrace change. From a teenager dreaming of mechatronics to a budding construction professional, he has become a role model for others, showing that with the right support, success is within reach.
