At just 15 years old, Omphile Hlahatsi is already working to change the future of young boys in Potchefstroom. Driven by a dream he had since childhood, Omphile started the Boys Heaven Foundation, a discipline and mentorship programme aimed at guiding boys who struggle with behaviour, peer pressure, and finding the right path in life.

Omphile was born in Krugersdorp, but his family moved back to Potchefstroom four years ago, a place they have long considered home. It was here that his vision began to take shape. The idea for the foundation first came to him when he was only 11 years old.

At the time, his parents felt he was still too young to take on such a responsibility. But his determination never faded. Last year, his parents finally agreed to support the dream, and planning for the programme began around May 2025.

By July, registrations officially opened. Initially, the family planned to accept only 30 boys into the programme to see whether Omphile could manage such a large group of peers. But within just two weeks, 20 boys had already registered. The decision was made to close registrations early and start the programme with the first 20 boys.

With the support of his devoted mother, father, and twin sister, the foundation hosted its first parents’ meeting on August 31, 2025. From there, the programme steadily grew in strength. The boys now meet twice a month for sessions focused on motivation, discipline, therapy, manners, dealing with peer pressure, and learning how to conduct themselves as young men.

Every third Saturday, they also gather for a sports day, where they play soccer and spend time socialising in a positive environment. A major milestone came recently when the group attended their first discipline camp at Potchefstroom Dam from March 28 to April 4. Although the boys initially struggled with the strict routine, the experience soon turned into one they enjoyed and learned from.

Omphile, a learner at Potchefstroom Secondary School, says his own experiences motivated him to start the programme.

“I have also made mistakes, like smoking,” he admits. “That made me realise I want to become a better man and help other boys do the same.”

His father, Sabata, says the family stands firmly behind the initiative and that he is extremely proud of his son.

“We fully support him,” he says. “Parents should register their boys for this programme so that they can build better lives.”

According to the family, many young boys fall into negative habits such as smoking, skipping school, or getting into trouble. The programme aims to steer them back toward education, discipline, and hope for a better future.

Omphile’s mother, Katlego, says many children do not have the guidance they need at home.

“There are many children whose parents are not there for them or who struggle to keep them out of trouble,” she says. “This programme gives them hope and something positive to do instead of roaming the streets.”

She describes her son as a passionate and determined young leader.

“He is very passionate about what he does. He is a very strong leader.”

However, the Boys Heaven Foundation relies on community support to continue its work. The programme is currently seeking donations and sponsors to help sustain and expand its activities. Needed support includes training equipment such as whiteboards, books, and sports gear, sponsors to cover the R100 monthly fee for boys whose families cannot afford it, campsites for future discipline camps, as well as motivational speakers, pastors, and psychologists willing to volunteer their time.

For Omphile, the goal remains simple but powerful, helping boys believe they can choose a better path and grow into men who make their community proud.

If you would like to make a donation or get involved in this programme, please contact Katlego on 079 128 5375.

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