Weeks had passed since Mkhize's first day at the Kaizer Chiefs youth training ground. Every morning, he arrived early, notebook in hand, ready to observe, analyze, and record every detail of the players' performance.
One afternoon, the former scout pulled him aside. "Mkhize, I've been watching your work. You're not just taking notes you're identifying potential in ways few people can. I think it's time you take the next step."
Mkhize's heart pounded. "Next step?" he asked cautiously.
"Yes," the scout said, smiling. "We have a small, official licensing course coming up for aspiring scouts. You qualify for a spot. Complete it, and you'll have your license the first official step toward being a Kaizer Chiefs scout."
Mkhize felt a wave of excitement, relief, and disbelief. This was it the formal beginning of the dream he had chased quietly for years. "I… I won't let you down," he said, determination burning in his eyes.
"You won't," the scout replied. "But remember, this is only the beginning. Observing talent is one thing. Guiding it, protecting it, helping it grow that's what makes a great scout."
The next few weeks were intense. Mkhize studied tirelessly, learning the formal rules of scouting, player evaluation, and talent development. He attended workshops, practiced assessments, and even simulated scenarios where he had to evaluate players under pressure. Every lesson, every drill, every note in his notebook prepared him for the official recognition he had worked for.
Finally, the day arrived. Mkhize received his official scouting license in a small ceremony at the club's training facility. Holding the card in his hands, he felt the weight of every sacrifice, every early morning, and every lesson he had learned.
That evening, he returned home, notebook in hand, and wrote:
"Today is not the dream's end it is the beginning of the real journey. I am officially a scout. Kaizer Chiefs, future stars, and every player I have observed this is only the first step. Dreams become reality through preparation, patience, and persistence."
He closed the notebook, a smile spreading across his face. The journey had only just begun, but for the first time, Mkhize knew that nothing could stop him from walking the path he had chosen.