Know Your Neighbour: Mokgethwa Mkalipe
Mokgethwa Mkalipe shares her fond memories of growing up in Sandton.
Bryanston born Mokgethwa ‘Thwa’ Mkalipe (22) is an actuarial analyst Sandton can be proud to call its own.
“I’ve lived in Sandton all my life,” Mkalipe said, reminiscing on how her math teachers played a role in aligning her with the decision to take on actuarial studies at a tertiary level.
“I went to school at Brescia House; one thing about Brescia, the math teachers inspired me so much,” said Mkalipe. “Now, I’m an actuarial analyst. I work for an insurance company. We use statistical and mathematical principles to value the policies of the insurance company.”
Mkalipe treasures time spent with her family above all; a past-time which she has cherished since her younger days growing up with her twin sister. Additionally, she’s grateful for the enduring friendships she has forged with her school friends.
“My fondest memories are when my gran would fetch us from pre-primary, and she would bring us juice,” Mkalipe said. “At school, it was the friendships. We still kept in touch after high school.”
In her teenage years, Mkalipe spent most of her weekends at Monte Casino.
“We’d go to the Milky Lane there, their ice cream is delicious,” said Mkalipe jovially. “We’d go to movies, bowling, and games with friends. It’s like a staple part of my teenage years.”
In adulthood, however, Mkalipe prefers the simplicity of mostly staying indoors for relaxation purposes.
“I’m mainly just a home person now; I listen to a lot of music, and I watch reality TV shows,” Mkalipe shared. “If I were to say something outside of home, I enjoy going to the movies; I enjoy shopping at Sandton City. Sandton City is my go-to place to go shop or window shop.”
Mkalipe proffered words of encouragement to the Sandton community of schoolgoers, encouraging the youth to stay true to themselves.
“Spend some time thinking about where you want to see yourself in a couple of years,” Mkalipe said in her compassionate tone. “Then, think about what steps you need to take to get there; it’s very easy to be influenced, so stay true to yourself, even though that might not be easy all the time.”
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