Meet Thembisa DJ Kgomotso Makgafola chasing his dreams through music
Thembisa-born DJ Kgomotso Makgafola shares how his mother's determination, community support and a life-changing performance inspired him to pursue his passion for music while giving back to his hometown.
My name is Kgomotso Makgafola, and I am a DJ from Thembisa. I was born here and have lived in this community my entire life.
One of the biggest inspirations in my life has been watching my mother wake up every day, go to work and do everything she could to provide for me and my siblings.
Seeing her dedication motivated me to work harder in my studies and in life because I wanted to create a better future for myself and my family.
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What I love about Thembisa is that many of the people who inspire me either come from here or have strong connections to this community.
Seeing people from the same place as me achieving great things gives me hope that I can also make my dreams a reality.
One of my favourite places in Thembisa is The Sandwich Bite in Leboeng, opposite the BP garage. I performed there for the first time, and that moment became special to me.
I also enjoyed their food, and it is a safe and relaxed place where families and friends can spend time together.
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My journey as a DJ changed when I met an artist named Cardiac Music. She was the first person to give me an opportunity to showcase my talent when she hosted an event at The Sandwich Bite and invited me to perform.
That opportunity opened a door for me and changed my life.
One of the things I would like to see improved in our community is more support for learners who face challenges at school.
Some learners and families cannot afford basic necessities such as sanitary pads and toiletries, and this can affect their confidence and lead to bullying. I believe more attention should be given to supporting learners who need assistance.
One of the artists who inspires me is DJ Shimza. He gives me hope that I can also succeed through DJing, provide for my family and one day travel the world through my passion for music.
I would describe Thembisa as a place of fun, opportunities and potential. There are many places where people can relax and spend time together.
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There are also opportunities for people to earn a living through different businesses and industries.
I believe Thembisa has the potential to attract visitors because of the energy and creativity found here.
Many people do not know that I can not only DJ but also play drums. I play drums at my church, and I enjoy creating music and bringing joy to people.
Making a crowd dance and enjoy every moment is something that makes me happy.
The best advice I have received came from Khanyisile Khumalo, who encouraged me to keep working towards success, believe in my talent and never lose hope.
To me, Thembisa is more than just a home. It is a place where I continue to learn and grow every day.
Seeing people waking up early to go to work and vendors working hard every morning reminds me to keep pushing and never give up on my dreams.
