Duduza – A foster parent, Tshepo Monaledi, also known as Tshepo the Guitarist, got the crowd on their feet when he performed songs of hope during the World Social Work Day celebration at Birchwood Hotel, in Boksburg, on March 22.
The day is celebrated worldwide, every third Tuesday of March, to recognise and highlight the contribution of social work professionals to the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities across the globe.
In South Africa, this day coincides with celebrating Human Rights Month, which acknowledges the historical link between the social work profession, human rights and social justice.
The 29-year-old from Duduza says he drew inspiration to play the guitar so he could entertain his siblings, following the struggles they faced after the death of their mother.
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“Our mother died in 2006. She left me with my two younger brothers and sister. I had to leave school to raise them. We grew up in a child-headed household,” said Tshepo.
He added, “I used to perform at Duduza Taxi Rank so that I could raise money to buy food. Today, I am proud to see my younger sister still pursuing her education.”
Tshepo says it is a very challenging task to be a parent, especially at a young age when he should be focusing on other things.
He added that he drew his strength from the almighty God and social workers who have been of great importance to his upbringing.
With a smile, Tshepo added, “My siblings know that I live for them and will continue doing what is best for them to have a good upbringing like other children.”
Social work supervisor in the canalisation unit at the Gauteng Department of Social Development Springs office, Lerato Mekgwe said Tshepo is a true inspiration if you are looking at where he comes from.
“As a canalisation supervisor, it is my duty to know of every case happening in my section, which is Springs, and that is when I got to know Tshepo.
He became a child-headed foster parent to his younger brother and was a good foster parent.”
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“I am going to ask the Geluksdal Child Welfare to visit the family and see if we can assist Tshepo’s younger brother, whom I am told, has fallen into the trap of drug abuse.”
“But this is how Tshepo makes his living, by singing and playing a guitar wherever invited. He was once a contestant on SA Idols, but unfortunately could not make it far in the competition.
“I wish for him to see his talent nurtured so he can reach professional status,” said Mekgwe.
Anyone willing to assist Tshepo can reach out to the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Duduza service point, located at 4880 Nala Street or contact 011 810 5154.
