Thembisa entrepreneur committed to community and youth empowerment

My name is Constance Kgatliso Matshabelele, and I am 29 years old. I have called Thembisa home for most of my life, moving here in 1999, when I was three years old.

Today, I live in Rabie Ridge and am proud of the community that raised me.

I am an entrepreneur with a passion for property and sports apparel retail, fields I ventured into with the help of my educational background in business administration.

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My journey in business had challenges and lessons, but it was deeply rewarding.

Taking that leap into entrepreneurship was a turning point in my life, one that has allowed me to grow personally and professionally while contributing to the community I love.

One of my fondest memories of growing up in Thembisa is the joy of exploring the neighbourhood with friends, playing games, and laughing together.

Those carefree days instilled in me a sense of belonging and connection that still influences how I see this community today.
What I love most about Thembisa is its entrepreneurial spirit.

This kasi has a way of fostering growth, resilience, and innovation.

Seeing local businesses thrive inspires me to keep going and reminds me that I am part of something bigger than myself.
Of the hidden gems, Hangawt is one of my favourites.

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I love their delicious food and spotless cleanliness. It is a place that sets the standard high and always leaves me impressed.
Another favourite spot is Brilliant Gym. The energy, facilities, and supportive atmosphere make it my go-to space for fitness and motivation.

One of the biggest challenges facing Thembisa is substance abuse, especially drug use among young people.

I believe we need a holistic approach to address it – community awareness programmes, accessible rehabilitation centres, strong support groups, and collaboration between law enforcement and community leaders.

By working together, we can help protect our youth and build a safer, healthier environment.

I draw a lot of inspiration from Shimza.

His journey, from humble beginnings to international success, is a story of resilience, perseverance, and innovation.

Beyond music, his entrepreneurial ventures like Hangawt indicate his commitment to uplifting Thembisa. His example motivates me to stay focused, work hard, and use my own platform to give back.

If I had to describe Thembisa in three words, they would be vibrant, resilient, and united.

This kasi is alive with energy, filled with people who rise above challenges, and grounded in a strong sense of community.

A unique skill I developed is the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and industries, building collaborations that drive creative solutions.

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It’s a strength that has helped me both in business and in my personal journey.

Looking ahead, I want to bring positive change to Thembisa through youth mentorship.

I believe that pairing young people with strong role models can give them the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities they need to thrive.

The best advice I received came from my loving mother: “Believe in yourself.”

Simple, but powerful. It’s a reminder that our mindset shapes our reality. When we trust in our abilities, we are more likely to take risks, push through challenges, and achieve our goals.

For me, home is where the heart is, a place of belonging, comfort, and inspiration. Thembisa will always be home because it holds the memories of my childhood, the spirit of resilience, and the cultural richness that continues to shape who I am.