Thembisa-born leader and LGBTIQA+ influencer making a difference

My name is Lloyd Thabede, though those who love and respect me call me Serurubele-Jones.

I am 37 years old, the founder and CEO of the Serurubele-Jones Foundation, and I live in the Mqantsa section, Thembisa.

My journey in Thembisa began when my parents moved here when I was four. I attended Khulasizwe Primary School and later Boitumelong, where I had the time of my life as a learner.

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Over the years, I’ve been honoured with awards and recognition, including being named an AU Pageantry Awards winner, LGBTIQA+ Influencer of the Year, winner and ambassador for Unseen International Pageantry, and first runner-up for Mr Gay Nation SA 2023.

One of my favourite childhood memories was playing street games; umgusha, netball, ibathi, and Chigago (built-up tins) with friends until late into the night.

Sometimes we’d challenge children from other sections, spending the whole day laughing, fighting, covered in dust, and moving to the music from nearby houses.

It was more than just a game; it was pure magic that shaped my childhood. Thembisa has a heartbeat you can feel. It’s in the warmth of neighbours greeting you by name, the resilience of entrepreneurs, and the creativity bursting from every corner. It’s a place where people lift each other up.

For food, I love Enhlanzeni. After a hectic Saturday, I often head there with friends for braai meat and drinks.

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Nothing beats the vibe or the flame-grilled meat.

Volunteering at a local youth centre opened my eyes to the incredible potential of young people in our community. It inspired me to be part of building futures, not just watching from the sidelines.

That moment led to the creation of the Serurubele-Jones Foundation, an organisation that advocates for the boy child and supports youth development.

Unemployment is one of the biggest challenges. I believe investing in skills development and supporting local businesses is the key to creating opportunities. Fighting drugs in our community is equally important if we want a brighter future.

Simon Mbele, better known as Sy, the owner of Makhulong Park, is someone I deeply admire.

I grew up looking up to him because of his humility and the work he has done for our community. I believe he deserves his flowers while he is still here to smell them.

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Most people know almost everything about me, but one hidden talent is my ability to act. I’ve never showcased it fully, but one day I hope to step into that world.

If I could bring one positive change to Thembisa, I’d build a creative hub for young artists, including spaces for music, dance, design, acting, and recording studios. Thembisa has so much untapped talent; such a space could change lives.

My grandmother once told me, “Treat others with kindness, you never know whose help you’ll need tomorrow.” Those words have stayed with me.

Home is where your story begins, and mine began in Thembisa.

It’s not just where I live, it’s where I belong. Thembisa is woven into my identity, my dreams, and my heart.