The Beginning of Something Beautiful
By Lynn Nel - NCRDC4398
In October 2009, I stepped through the doors of CS Debt Counselling with my heart pounding and butterflies dancing in my stomach. I was scared and nervous—I had no idea that this moment would become the beginning of the most meaningful chapter of my life.
I started from the ground up, learning every aspect of our business. From filling out forms to making client calls, I embraced each task with determination to do my best. But it was those special moments—the courtesy calls where I could check in on our clients and hear how they were doing, and especially the birthday calls—that truly captured my heart. The surprise and joy in their voices when they realised we remembered them reminded me daily why this work matters so much.
Growing Together Through the Challenges
Like any growing business, we had our share of growing pains. But what I loved most was how we worked through them together as a team. Every challenge made us stronger, every obstacle taught us something new, and through it all, I felt like I was part of something truly special.
Then came a day that changed everything for me. I was called into the office where Bernidene and our late, beloved Jenny were waiting. When they offered me the position of Office Manager, I was completely speechless. The thought that they trusted me with such a big responsibility was both humbling and overwhelming. It meant the world to me to know they believed in me.
Finding My True Calling
As time went on, Bernidene gave me even more responsibility and trusted me to consult directly with clients. This became the part of my job that I enjoyed most thoroughly. I treated each client in my own special manner because I understood that behind every file was a real person with real struggles, hopes, and dreams.
What made my work even more meaningful was when I went through the debt counselling process myself due to personal circumstances. Walking that same path my clients walked gave me a deeper understanding of their fears, their struggles, and the incredible relief that comes with successfully completing the process and becoming debt free. I wasn't just helping people anymore—I truly understood their journey because I had lived it.
A Dream Fulfilled Through Faith
In 2023, I made a decision that would change my life forever. I decided I wanted to become a debt counsellor myself. The course was challenging—definitely not easy—but I was determined to see it through. When I wrote my exams and passed, I felt such pride in myself. But when I received my NCR number and certificate, I knew that all thanks belonged to God for giving me the strength. AMEN.
There is truly no feeling like seeing the pure happiness on a client's face when they receive their clearance certificate and their name is finally cleared. Those moments remind me why I chose this path and why I'm so grateful to be part of their journey to freedom.
More Than Colleagues—We're Family
Throughout all these years, one thing has remained constant: we have always been a great TEAM/FAMILY in the office. This isn't just about working together—it's about genuinely caring for each other and for every person who walks through our doors seeking help.
I've been blessed to be part of CS Debt Counselling for nearly 17 years now, and every day I'm reminded that this isn't just a job for me—it's a calling. When I see clients transform from desperation to hope, from financial chaos to freedom, I know that I'm exactly where God wants me to be.
My Heart for Service
Today, as a registered debt counsellor (NCRDC 4398), I continue to approach every client interaction with the same heart I've always had. Each person who sits across from me gets my complete attention, my genuine care, and my commitment to walk alongside them on their journey to financial freedom.
I've learned that debt counselling isn't just about numbers and payments—it's about restoring dignity, rebuilding hope, and reminding people that their current situation doesn't define their future. Having walked this path myself, I can look them in the eye and say with complete honesty: "I understand, and there is hope."
Being part of the CS Debt Counselling family has been the greatest blessing of my professional life. From those nervous first days in 2009 to celebrating my registration as a debt counsellor, every step has been guided by God's hand and supported by the most wonderful team anyone could ask for.
This is my story, my calling, and my joy—helping others find their way to financial freedom while being surrounded by a family that truly cares.
