Martha and hard work go hand in hand
"I love teaching. I love to see the change it makes in learners and it leaves me content to know I had a part in shaping their future."
POLOKWANE – With a strong love and sense of responsibility towards her community, it is no surprise that Martha Chuene-Masopoga has a lot of charity projects on her plate.
She is a dedicated teacher at Westenburg Secondary School where she gives accounting to learners in Gr 10 to 12 and economical management science (EMS) for Gr 8 and 9 learners.
Along with that, it is also her responsibility to ensure the learners adhere to the school dress code.
“I soon realised the learners cannot all afford proper school uniforms so in 2005/2006 I began a recycling programme where I collect school uniforms from learners who have completed their schooling. These uniforms I then give to the needy learners,” she explained.
Being a teacher affords her the opportunity to help shape young minds and encourage learners to grow into responsible, educated adults.
She entered the Mrs Polokwane 2016 pageant and won the Best Motivator title. She was also a finalist in the Mrs Polokwane 2017 pageant.
“I loved every moment of the Mrs Polokwane pageant and it gave me the opportunity to expand my world. It also motivated me even more to be involved with charity work so I can assist the community at large,” she added.
She adopted several charities and serves as a life coach to some Gr 8 learners from Kabelo Combined School.
“About six learners from Westenburg Secondary School will assist me with this project as I believe learners who perform well in school should be recognised. I prefer to help those that try to help themselves to encourage an attitude of working hard to achieve their goals. I will greatly appreciate sponsors to help me on my charity projects,” she explained.
Martha is thankful for her family who support her every step of the way and understand that this work is her passion.
Maintaining a balance between her work, family and her passion is easy, she added, as long as you love what you do.
“Weekends are family time. I love to help my younger sons with homework and assist my eldest with his studies. I am a strict parent and a disciplined person and I encourage these values in others. I myself believe in hard work to reach your dreams as I have walked that path myself. My mother was a domestic worker and I had to work hard to get what I want, I couldn’t just sit back and wait for handouts.”
Fitness is another important aspect of her life and she enjoys jogging and participating in marathons.
