SEDIBENG.- Local teenage artist Tshediso Ralejoe (17) paid a special tribute to Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana star Relebohile Mofokeng at the James Ground on Saturday.

The young artist arrived at the venue during the Relebohile Mofokeng Foundation Soccer Tournament to present Mofokeng with a portrait he had drawn of the footballer’s face.

It was a proud moment for the young boy as he honoured his role model in such a unique way.
Mofokeng, who is preparing to depart for Belgium on Tuesday, attended the event in person to receive the special gift.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Ralejoe explained that he felt it was important to present the drawing to Mofokeng to honour him before his departure abroad. He shared that Mofokeng has inspired many young people in Sharpeville, including himself, and that he wanted to use his God-given talent to show his appreciation.

The presentation took place just two days after Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Mayor Hassan Mako hosted a farewell dinner for Mofokeng and fellow local soccer stars Thapelo Maseko and Tshepang Moremi at the Mayor’s Parlour.

The trio, dubbed the triple “M”, were part of the historic Bafana Bafana squad that recently qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 32 for the first time, before being eliminated from the global tournament by Canada. Ralejoe stated that he wanted to honour Mofokeng with the drawing so that it would inspire him to make the community proud in Belgium.

“I’m proud to have someone like Rele coming from our neighbourhood. He made us proud at the world cup, especially coming from Sharpeville. I wish him the best of luck in his new football career abroad, and I have no doubt that he is going to make us proud,” he concluded.

Ralejoe was not alone in his efforts, as several other young artists were also busy creating artwork for Mofokeng during the tournament.

The heartwarming presentation was witnessed by Mofokeng’s parents, Sechaba and Naomi, who run the Relebohile Mofokeng Foundation Tournament currently underway. The sporting event is set to conclude this coming weekend with final matches across the U13, U15, U17, senior, and masters divisions.