Soshanguve woman recognised at Vita Basadi awards
Through education, mentorship, sports, and the arts, Bontle Chauke addresses the needs of young people in the community.
At just 24 years old, Bontle Amanda Chauke has become a beacon of hope in Soshanguve, using her voice, vision, and compassion to change lives.
On a stage filled with remarkable women at the 10th Annual Vita Basadi Awards, Chauke was recognised with the Outstanding Youth Philanthropist Award, cementing her place among Gauteng’s most inspiring young leaders.
The award, presented by the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, celebrates young women between the ages of 16 and 35 who go beyond themselves to empower others and promote community welfare.
For Chauke, the recognition is more than just a personal victory; it is a victory for Soshanguve itself.
“Winning this award means representation. It means young people from the township, just like me, can dream big, serve faithfully and still be celebrated. This is not just my win, it’s Soshanguve’s win,” expressed Chauke.
Growing up in Soshanguve Block TT, Chauke was confronted with the daily realities of crime, drug abuse, and poverty.
These challenges could have easily dimmed her light, but instead, they ignited her passion for service.
“Growing up in Soshanguve has been one of the most challenging moments of my life, but it taught me resilience, faith, and the importance of community.
“I realised early that if we don’t rise for our people, no one will,” she reflected.
Her non-profit organisation, Bontle Ke Botho, was born out of this conviction.
Rooted in the principle of ubuntu, the organisation addresses youth empowerment through education, mentorship, sports, the arts, and outreach programmes.
Among her initiatives, Chauke highlights the Back to School Hair Drive, where learners receive free haircuts and braiding each term.
The simple gesture has helped restore dignity and confidence to many young people.
She has also spearheaded literacy-driven projects such as the Annual Reading Competition and book clubs, designed to cultivate a love for learning and open doors for future leaders.
Community dialogues on topics such as menstrual equity and men’s mental health have also become part of her advocacy.
“I have seen learners grow in confidence, improve academically, and gain a love for reading and literature.
“Many young people have discovered their voice, purpose, and value through our programmes. Parents also feel relieved, knowing that some of the burdens they face are being lifted.”
Chauke is particularly passionate about menstrual equity, a cause she believes is about more than just access to sanitary products.
“For me, this is not just about providing a necessity. It is about breaking the stigma around menstruation and ensuring that no girl misses out on opportunities because of it,” she said.
Her sanitary towel campaign has already reached thousands of girls in disadvantaged communities, and she hopes to expand the initiative in the future.
Running a non-profit is not without difficulties, and Chauke admits that funding and resources remain constant hurdles.
“We have so many programmes that cater for different age groups, and it’s not always easy. But community support and partners who share our vision make it possible for us to keep serving.”
She said knowing that someone’s breakthrough and success is tied to her serving and obedience is what keeps her going.
Chauke’s vision is ambitious as she seeks to establish a large community hub in Soshanguve, complete with libraries in every section, mentorship hubs in schools, and a culture of literacy that nurtures leaders.
She also hopes to expand her work beyond Soshanguve to other townships across Gauteng.
“To young people, start with what you have. Your presence and voice matter. Don’t wait for permission to change the world around you. Brighten the corner where you are.”
ALSO READ: Gauteng Traffic Police urges safety during Heritage Day celebrations
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
