Former inmate becomes motivational speaker and author
One man’s story of survival, faith, and a second chance told through his powerful autobiography From Prison to Pulpit.
Former inmate and local author Thapelo Masokoane is using his past to build a better future, not only for himself, but for the youth. He has lived a life most wouldn’t believe, and now he’s sharing it to help others find hope.
Raised in a poverty-stricken household without a father figure, Masokoane grew up surrounded by drugs, crime, and violence. “I made some tough choices,” he admits. “But prison was my wake-up call.”
Sentenced to 15 years, it was inside those prison walls that Masokoane’s transformation began. He became the prison librarian, found faith, and started questioning the path his life had taken.
“That quiet space gave me time to reflect. I started reading and speaking at church services in prison. That’s when someone said, ‘Why not write a book?’. That seed grew into something bigger.”
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In 2021, he published From Prison to Pulpit, a raw and moving account of his journey from brokenness and self-destruction to faith and healing. The book reflects on growing up fatherless, the trauma of incarceration, and ultimately, his path to Christ.
But Thapelo’s mission doesn’t stop there. He has launched a clothing line, called Poneginas, inspired by his story, and hopes to take his message into schools, churches, and communities across Johannesburg.
“I want young people to see that they’re not alone, and that change is possible, no matter how dark it gets,” he says. “I’m not chasing money. I’m chasing purpose.”
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Despite recent setbacks, including being evicted from his home, Masokoane remains determined to rise. With plans to start a non-profit company, he hopes to keep building platforms that uplift others from circumstances he once called his own.
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