Thembisa taught me how to hustle – Lethabo Mokwatlo

My name is Lethabo Mokwatlo. I am 27 years old and a student teacher. I lived in Thembisa for five years, and in that time, it became a part of me.

One of my favourite things about Thembisa is its family culture. Everyone in your immediate hood section feels like family. You can never have a bad day or feel lonely because there’s always someone checking up on you.

And, of course, I’ll never forget the Skothane [youth subculture in townships characterised by extravagant displays of wealth and a focus on looking good] days; those were epic.

Anyone who grew up ekasi knows Fridays were for Neo’s Ha Bazze, the white container at Kopanong, and legendary hangouts like the Ema Tennis Court, Show Your Legs and Cuff Your Chick.

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I lived in the Kopanong section, and what I loved about it was the sense of security and belonging. Neighbours weren’t just neighbours; they were family. You could leave your door unlocked when going to town, and nothing would happen because the community looked out for each other. They noticed unusual movements and immediately acted on them.

For food, my go-to spot is Chuff Pozzy restaurant in the Moriting Section.

They have the best rib burgers, kotas, ribs and chicken.
For relaxation, I head to Slotjhile, a mature, chilled space with top-notch music, perfect for unwinding.

And when it’s time for fun? It’s all about the Boiketlong Pub (now known as The Weekend) or BA.Thembisa changed my life.

I grew up as a “cheese girl”, the “Mommy, can I?” type of child. But kasi life taught me how to hustle, be street smart, and, most importantly, be humble.

I’ve seen people fall from high positions, and that taught me to value even those who might seem to have little because one day, they might be the ones offering you a meal when you’re starving.

One of the biggest challenges in Thembisa is poor service delivery and limited opportunities. The government neglects the kasi, so it’s rotting away.

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Tenders are handed out, but people use the funds to buy expensive cars and houses instead of improving and enhancing the area.
Just look at the Ibazelo Park, a beautiful initiative now falling apart because no one maintains it. The only way to fix this is by having leaders who put the needs of the people first instead of their selfish wants.

I look up to Shimza [real name Kholofelo Ashley Raphala, an SA DJ and music producer] because he started as just another child from ekasi, but he built a name and an empire, and now he’s empowering young people and creating jobs.

If I had to describe Thembisa in one sentence, I’d say it’s underdeveloped and neglected but rich with talent.

Something people might not know about me is that I’m good at drawing and graphic design. I’ve never pursued it seriously, but I’m passionate about it.

The positive change I’d love to see in Thembisa is well-maintained infrastructure and youth development facilities, netball courts, soccer fields, parks and swimming pools. But most importantly, these projects need community involvement.

The best advice I’ve ever received was from my mentor: “The fruits of a tree are not for the tree itself, but for others to enjoy.”

That taught me that my gifts, talents and hard work are not just for me. They should uplift and inspire others.

To me, home means a safe, peaceful and enriching place. That’s why Thembisa will always be home. It’s where people go out of their way to uplift you, cheer you up and help you grow.