Thembisa raised me and taught me ubuntu – Keneilwe Marobela

I am Keneilwe Marobela, born and raised in Thembisa, Tshepo Section.

For 34 years, Thembisa has been my home, and it has shaped who I am today.

Growing up here has been a beautiful journey, filled with love and a deep sense of belonging.

One of my favourite memories of growing up in Thembisa is the feeling of community.

It was a place where everyone came together, like one big family, and we truly engaged with one another.

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There was always a sense of support and connection, and that’s something I carry with me.

What I love most about Thembisa is how we help each other.

Whether it’s lending a hand in tough times or simply listening to one another, the spirit of collaboration and compassion runs deep in our community.

We stand by each other, and that’s what makes this place feel so special.

For me, the places I go to for food and relaxation are important.

Slogile and Bekhiwe’s Kitchen are my go-to spots for food, where I enjoy delicious meals.

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When I need to relax and reflect, I head to Revelation Spiritual Home. It’s there that I learn, grow, and connect with my roots and spiritual identity.

In addition to my work in the community, I also run an organisation called Share the Love Charity Organisation, alongside Fezile Nonjiko.

The organisation focuses on helping underprivileged families, the disabled, and orphans in Thembisa.

Running this organisation has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life, and it’s something I’ve always aspired to do.

However, Thembisa, like many communities, faces challenges.

Theft and poverty are some of the biggest issues.

I believe that through community engagement, we can come together to find solutions.

We can work on securing our areas and creating opportunities for employment and affordable living, which will help reduce poverty and crime in the long term.

I draw inspiration from myself.

I believe that with willpower and determination, nothing is impossible. I’ve proven to myself time and time again that when you set your mind to something, you can achieve it.

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Whether it’s passing exams or completing a big project, I trust that if I believe in myself, I can do anything. Achieving goals builds self-confidence and helps you grow. I encourage others to start believing in themselves too—everything is possible if you try.

To me, Thembisa is a big, vibrant, community-oriented area. It’s filled with life, and it’s a place that’s always growing and evolving.

I’ve always been someone who listens, and I take pride in being a good advisor to the youth, the elderly, and anyone in need of guidance. I try my best to be considerate, understanding, and show empathy for others.

If I could bring one positive change to Thembisa, it would be to create a positive and healthy environment for the elderly and those living in poverty.

The best advice I’ve ever received came from my spiritual father, Imboni iGogo Dr uZwi-Lezwe Radebe. He taught me to be kind, treat others with respect and empathy, and always count your blessings.

His teachings have helped me maintain a positive outlook on life and understand the importance of patience. Patience helps you navigate life’s challenges and wait for the right outcomes.