Thembisa educator shares journey, community pride and vision for youth empowerment

My name is Thando Makhaza. I am an educator based at Moriting Primary School.

I have been living in Thembisa since 2015.

What I love and appreciate most about this community is its diversity and the unique traditions that embrace our national values.

I also value the accessibility of local services and recreational spaces, which allow me to pursue my passion for soccer.

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I am a self-confessed “food-a-holic”, and one of my favourite spots is Chuff Pozzy.

They always prepare my meals exactly the way I like them, and there is never a shortage of dishes to try. For relaxation, I spend time on the field watching or coaching football, something that brings me both peace and enjoyment.

One of the most life-changing moments in my journey was securing employment and joining the school where I currently work.
It opened many doors for learning and personal growth, shaping the person I am today.

It has also shown me just how full of opportunity Thembisa can be for those who choose to live here and grow within the community.

However, I have also observed challenges, particularly youth unemployment. This often leads some young people towards gangsterism and substance abuse.

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I believe that, as a community, we need to focus on empowering young people not only to seek employment after qualifying, but also to use their skills to create their own opportunities.

This requires support from community leaders and government structures as a whole.

Many young people feel they must rely solely on formal jobs to survive after completing their education, instead of exploring entrepreneurship and self-created opportunities.

If this mindset can shift, it could reduce pressure on government systems and allow young people to contribute meaningfully to the economy while supporting future generations.

Someone who inspires me is Mr B M Mkhize, who owns a printing and transport business.

He is a go-getter who continuously seeks opportunities while also giving back to the community. I aspire to follow a similar path, one where I can contribute to uplifting Thembisa and help create “kasi heroes” who drive the community forward.

If I had to describe Thembisa in three words, they would be connection, support and growth.

I see myself as a versatile person who can adapt to different situations and deliver positive results. I am also a people person, which I believe is a gift that helps me connect with others easily.

One of my goals is to establish a civic and social advocacy platform focused on using informed voices to mentor young people and support vulnerable groups within the community.

The best advice I have ever received came from my late stepmother, who told me that it is not what you have in life, but who you have that matters most.

That lesson taught me to value people, appreciate relationships and recognise the importance of community.

To me, home is a safe space filled with a deep sense of belonging and memories.

Thembisa represents exactly that. It is a place where I have grown into a community-oriented person through the life lessons I have gained over the years, and it continues to be a place that gives back as much as it offers.