How one man is keeping Seshego’s kids off the streets
Matome Malonkane’s Thabang Cars Foundation is changing lives in Seshego by using sport to inspire and empower local youth.
POLOKWANE – The founder of the Thabang Cars Foundation, Matome Malonkane from Seshego Zone 5, was driven by the sadness he felt seeing boys and girls roaming the streets with no direction and nothing to do.
“One day, on my way home, I couldn’t stop thinking about how I could make a difference. I asked myself how I could help these young people and keep them busy,” said Malonkane.
That reflection led him to start the foundation and launch a soccer tournament in his community.
His goal was simple: to get boys and girls involved in something positive after school and during the holidays. So far, the tournaments have been well received, with growing interest and support from local parents.
“Parents now encourage their children to join, and that means a lot,” he said.
The foundation was officially launched in August last year during Women’s Month. “My wife Mokgadi is my biggest supporter, and I’m grateful to have her by my side,” Malonkane added.
As more young people show interest in the initiative, Malonkane and his team plan to expand. Netball and volleyball will be added in the future, with help from potential sponsors.
“My wish is to see every child in our programme dreaming big and setting goals for themselves. By 2027, I want to see our players competing at national level or in major championships,” he said.
