The founder of the Wami Foundation, Owami Kgafane, recently returned home from abroad to reconnect with the community that shaped her journey.

She inspired learners at her former school, Dawnview High School, and visited children at the Don Mattera Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC).

The former president of Dawnview High School said that although she is pursuing her education abroad, her heart remains firmly rooted in South Africa.

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“The foundation is still rooted here at home, and I remain very much involved.

“I am grateful to my incredible team who have continued the work of the Wami Foundation while I study abroad. Their commitment has ensured that our mission continues to impact lives every day,” said Kgafane.

During her visit to Dawnview High, Owami addressed the matrics, encouraging learners to remain focused on their dreams despite the challenges they may face.

Drawing from her own difficult childhood, she reminded pupils that circumstances do not determine one’s future.

“My past does not define me, and neither should yours define you.

Your story can become your greatest strength if you choose to rise above your circumstances,” shared Kgafane.

Owami’s message carries weight because it is deeply personal. At just 13 years old, she founded the Wami Foundation after experiencing homelessness alongside her younger brother when their mother, who struggled with addiction, was unable to care for them.

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Following her mother’s passing, Owami transformed her pain into purpose, dedicating her life to serving vulnerable communities and inspiring young people.

After speaking at Dawnview High School, Owami and the Wami Foundation visited the Don Mattera Child iving at the facility.

While addressing the residents, Owami shared the story behind the foundation and reflected on the experiences that inspired her to establish it.

“These are children who have experienced abuse, neglect, substance dependency within their families, behavioural challenges and many other hardships.

“I wanted them to know that their current circumstances do not define who they will become,” said Kgafane.

She also spoke openly about losing her mother to addiction, encouraging the children to seek healing through positive support systems rather than substances. “I shared my mother’s story to encourage them to remain open to healing and to believe that there is always hope beyond the pain.”

Owami said serving vulnerable communities will always remain at the heart of the Wami Foundation.

“My heart for serving my people and communities like the ones I was raised in will remain with me for all my days,” she said.

Her commitment to community service began years ago while still a learner at Dawnview High School.

Through the Wami Foundation, she organised clothing drives and donated pre-loved clothes to families in the Good Hope informal settlement in Germiston after a devastating shack fire left more than 40 families homeless.

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At the time, Owami appealed to the public through social media for donations.

“The response was incredible. We received so many clothes, and we knew they would make a real difference to families who had lost everything,” shared Kgafane.

The Wami Foundation has since expanded its work beyond clothing donations to include youth development, women’s empowerment programmes and motivational talks aimed at restoring hope to vulnerable communities.

Owami credits much of her resilience to her grandmother, who raised her and her younger brother during some of the most difficult years of their lives.

“My grandmother is my hero. She sacrificed so much for my brother and me. Because of her love and support, I have been able to breathe life into this foundation and help others,” said Kgafane.

As she continues her studies overseas, Owami says the Wami Foundation remains committed to empowering young people, restoring dignity to vulnerable families and proving that even the most difficult beginnings can lead to lives of purpose, compassion and impact.