Carol Rafapa

The TV Stardom,Zanele Twala Winning Against All Odds

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Zanele Angela Twala, known as Melanin,is a 23-year-old dynamo from Soshanguve, who has defied the odds of her environment to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Born on October 15, 2002, in Block BB, she currently resides in Block P, where her journey to stardom began. Melanin’s foray into modeling in grade 9 marked the inception of her illustrious career, which has since blossomed into a multifaceted persona.

Melanin’s ascent to prominence is underscored by her unwavering dedication to her craft. As a TV presenter on Channel 260, MpumaKapa TV, she captivates audiences with her charisma and poise every Tuesdays at 19:30. Her upcoming show, “Ngicishe Ngafa Ngiphanda”, is a testament to her growing influence in the industry. Additionally, she is a model coach and the founder of the prestigious Mr. & Miss Summer Bloom pageants.

As a qualified Beauty Therapist and Somatologist, Melanin brings her expertise to the table as a MUA for Ambitiouz Planet TV. Her passion for beauty and creativity is evident in her work, inspiring countless young individuals to pursue their dreams.

Melanin credits Thuso Mbedu as a source of inspiration, admiring her determination and resilience in the face of adversity. “Growing up in a similar environment, I understands the challenges Thuso faced and I am motivated by her success story”. Zanele says. Her mantra, “try to fail, not fail to try,” has been the driving force behind her success, enabling her to overcome obstacles and stay focused on her goals.

Melanin expresses her gratitude to her partner, who has been her rock and biggest supporter. “He believes in me when I don’t believe in myself and has been instrumental in my growth,” she acknowledges. Looking ahead, Melanin envisions herself achieving significant milestones within the next 2-3 years, including establishing a thriving beauty parlor, a successful modeling academy, and making a name for herself in the acting industry.

Follow Melanin on social media: Facebook: Zanele Twala (LayLow), Instagram: @melanin_zaneletwala, and TikTok: @melanin_zaneletwala.

Commemorating Human Rights Day In South Africa.

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Every year on March 21st, South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day to honor the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy and to reflect on progress made in promoting and protecting human rights.

The day marks a pivotal moment in South African history – the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre, where 69 protesters were killed by apartheid police while demonstrating against pass laws. This tragic event exposed the apartheid government’s blatant disregard for human rights, sparking international condemnation.

Today, we celebrate the democratic government’s declaration of March 21st as Human Rights Day, paying tribute to those who fought tirelessly for our liberation and the rights we enjoy today.

Our Constitution, hailed as one of the most progressive in the world, enshrines the Bill of Rights, which protects our fundamental human rights. These rights include:

– Equality: equal treatment and protection under the law
– Human dignity: respect and protection for every individual’s inherent dignity
– Freedom of movement and residence: the right to live and travel freely
– Language and culture: the freedom to express oneself in the language and culture of one’s choice
– Life: the right to life

Throughout Human Rights Month, the government will host various activities to promote a culture of human rights and encourage all South Africans to work together to uphold these fundamental rights.

As we commemorate Human Rights Day, we acknowledge that these rights come with responsibilities. We must all strive to build a society that respects the rule of law and promotes a culture of human rights in our daily lives – at work, in our communities, schools, and homes.

Together, let us preserve and strengthen our human rights record for future generations.

Jack Rams’ Remarkable Journey To Becoming A Published Author.

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Meet Mogale Jack Ramoshaba, known professionally as Jack Rams, a trailblazing media personality who has just released his powerful memoir, “Rebuilding Broken Walls: A Testament to Conquering Adversity.” Born in Gauteng, Mamelodi, and raised in Limpopo, Mankweng, Ramoshaba’s life journey is a shining testament to his unwavering tenacity, grit, and perseverance.

With a solid educational foundation in Media Studies from the University of Limpopo, Jack’s expertise extends to communications, public relations, writing, and journalism. He has achieved considerable success in radio broadcasts at Radio Turf and Energy FM and is the brainchild behind the podcast, Jack Rams Online.

Jack’s writing journey began during his time at the University of Limpopo as a blogger. He contributed to the university’s publication, Keyaka Magazine, as a student journalist. He later founded the online publication Mega Artists Magazine and initiated Mega Press, a news and information outlet.

Boasting a proven track record in content creation, this author also took on a role as a current affairs producer and artist brand manager in the entertainment industry. He is also the founder of Mega Artists Media, an organization dedicated to promoting arts and culture.

In “Rebuilding Broken Walls,” Jack bravely shares his personal struggles, including battles with stress, mental health, and the darkest moments that pushed him to the edge. This memoir is a heart-wrenching, yet uplifting reflection on resilience, overcoming adversity, and the transformative power of the human spirit.

What sets Ramoshaba’s story apart from others in its genre is its raw authenticity. This isn’t just a book about theory; it’s a deeply personal account of facing and conquering challenges head-on. Ramoshaba’s work is rooted in his own lived experience of facing and conquering personal challenges.

As a self-published author, Ramoshaba persevered through countless obstacles, and his journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of sharing one’s story. ” I encountered many challenges while writing this book,” Ramoshaba shares. “To stay motivated, I set daily writing goals and created a structured schedule. I also had to manage tasks like editing, cover design, and formatting, which required learning new skills and finding affordable resources.”

Marketing was another hurdle in the journey of “Rebuilding Broken Walls,” but Ramoshaba says he built an online presence through social media, connected with readers, and leveraged platforms like book bloggers and reviewers to get feedback and support.

“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do; it comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t.” – Jack Rams.

Through patience, learning, and adaptability, the first-time published author says he overcame these challenges. “With determination and persistence, I successfully self-published my book, and I’m proud of the journey I took to get there.”

Through his remarkable journey, the 39-year-old proves that with unshakeable determination and persistence, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how broken we may feel, there’s always a path to rebuilding and healing.

Facebook : Mogale Jack Ramoshaba / Jack Rams

Twitter (X) / Instagram @jackrams_

email : jackramsradio@gmail.com

 

A Taste Of Home.

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Tucked away in the vibrant streets of GaMatlapa Mashashane, near Tladi’s butchery, lies Kota Kat, a culinary gem born from the passion of its founder, Katlego “Kat” Lebese (32). This Mashashane native’s love affair with food is evident in every aspect of Kota Kat, from the divine fast food to the exceptional customer service.

Katlego’s journey with food began at a young age, sparked by his fascination with spices and experimenting with new recipes. Although his dream of becoming a chef didn’t materialize, it paved the way for his entrepreneurial spirit to flourish. With a family background in business, Katlego found his niche in opening Kota Kat, a venture that combines his passion for food with his business acumen.

Kota Kat’s menu boasts an array of mouth-watering options, including potato chips, magwinya, and kotas, carefully crafted to satisfy both take-away and sit-in customers. Katlego’s inspiration stems from his childhood love for bunny chows, which drove him to create a space where his community could indulge in delicious kotas without having to travel far.

Starting Kota Kat with an initial investment of less than R2,000, Katlego’s perseverance and faith in his vision propelled the business forward. As the business grew, so did Katlego’s menu, with new ingredients and flavors being introduced. However, he notes that launching a business in one’s hometown can be challenging, with personal relationships often leading to expectations of favors or leniency.

“I learned to be strict and stingy for my business to flourish,” Katlego said. Despite these challenges, his aspirations for Kota Kat’s future remain ambitious. He aims to secure a larger, permanent location, providing stability and growth opportunities for the business while allowing him to fully express his creativity and dedication to his craft.

“Rented spaces for business don’t work for me, as one cannot predict the future,” Katlego explained. With the support of his family and close friends, Kota Kat has been operating for over …. years, and the proud owner shows no signs of giving up.

One of Kota Kat’s regular and trusted customers, Aubrey Kgole praises the establishment, saying, “We can’t wait to see what Kota Kat brings next, especially on their menu.” Katlego concludes, “You can order your food digitally at Kota Kat and collect later to avoid long queues.”

Contact Kota Kat:
– Calls/WhatsApp: +27 72 794 6601
– Facebook: Katlego Kat Lebese

Empowering Young Minds: Vahluri Reading Club’s Inspiring Story.

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Amidst the rolling hills of rural Mashashane, Limpopo, a remarkable initiative has been nurturing young minds for 12 years. The Vahluri Reading Club, founded by Bianca Ledwaba and Gapenyana Mphahlele, has become a beacon of hope for children in the village, providing a safe space to develop essential reading skills.

The name “Vahluri” is derived from the XiTsonga word for “Champions/winners,” reflecting the club’s mission to empower young minds. Bianca and Gapenyana, driven by a shared passion for education, established the club in 2013 to combat the alarming reality that most South African primary school children struggle to read for meaning.

Through dedication and volunteerism, they’ve created a supportive environment where children can thrive. Every Saturday, children gather at the sponsored Paradise Creche near Tlakale Mashashane Secondary, eager to learn and grow. Under the guidance of Bianca, Gapenyana, and by far 12 volunteers, they engage in interactive reading classes, exploring the world of literature and expanding their vocabulary.

Vahluri Reading Club volunteers:
Matshidiso Mokonyama
Tebatso Boroto
Lebogang Matlatle
Victoria Mokwatlo
Karabo Mmatli
Karabo Ledwaba
Kgaogelo Matlatle
Shibe Monyamane
Lebone Mphahlele

The club caters to children from Grade 4-7, although they never turn back a child, as most have siblings. Gapenyana notes, “We’d like to accommodate all primary school grades and age groups through different programs and events, but we face a space challenge.”

Some of the programs and events they run include:
– Library education tours
– Annual WRAD (World Read Aloud Day) celebrations

On Saturday 22nd February, they hosted a successful Booknic 2025 event at MashFun Events & Entertainment Madinyane, featuring guest speaker Matshidiso Mokonyama, who shared her personal journey with epilepsy, inspiring awareness and empathy among the young participants.

As the guest speaker opens up, she says: “Sharing my journey with the Vahluri Reading Club kids was a liberating experience that broke down personal barriers and helped me conquer long-held fears. Growing up in a rural area, I struggled with epilepsy, carrying shame and embarrassment for years. But speaking to these children, I felt the weight lift off my shoulders. This initiative is motivational, empowering kids from Mashashane to be confident, authentic, and explore their talents without limitations. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire kindness, support, and compassion in these young minds, giving them the tools I needed as a teenager struggling with epilepsy.”

Matshidiso is also a talented writer, and she has defied the odds by rising above the challenges of epilepsy and rural upbringing, refusing to let her circumstances limit her potential.

Bianca expresses gratitude for the kindness shown by supporters, saying, “We’re truly humbled.” The impact of the Vahluri Reading Club extends beyond literacy skills, fostering confidence, self-esteem, critical thinking, and creativity in rural communities.

Gapenyana says they would love to host a reading competition for primary schools this year. “We would like to invite professionals or people with special skills, gifts, or talents to share their knowledge and wisdom with us,” Gapenyana explains. “The more our kids see tangible people, the more they see it possible to dream even bigger.”

To sustain and enhance their efforts, the Vahluri Reading Club relies on donations, seeking
•Basic stationery (paper, storybooks, pens, pencils, scissors, etc.)
•A lockable cupboard for book storage
•Financial support for educational outings and activities

You can support the Vahluri Reading Club’s noble endeavor by donating reading materials or contributing financially. Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

Contact:
+27 72 175 4445
+27 71 876 2412

The Story Of A Triple Threat: A Corporate Climber, Content Creator, And Youth Empowerment Champion.

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Meet Jessica Tshepiso Legodi, a 24-year-old corporate climber, content creator, and youth empowerment champion. Born in Ga-Mashashane Matlapa outside Polokwane, Jessica is defying stereotypes about young millennials been entitled and lazy.

As a two-time TUT graduate, Jessica boasts a diverse background in modeling, corporate, and online entrepreneurship. She inspires others through her work as a motivational speaker and content creator.

Jessica’s passion for education drove her to pursue a Diploma in Administrative Information Management at the TUT Pretoria main campus, despite her initial desire to study teaching. She excelled in the program, also completing an Advanced Diploma without NSFAS funding. She relied on online income to support herself. “I was not planning on going back to school but I knew that going back would open doors for me since I was unemployed, and just as I anticipated, it did.” said Jessica.

Her perseverance led to two job offers at the same time and a successful corporate career. “I signed two job contracts to later resign on the other before I could start working.” With no prior office experience, Jessica excelled in her first admin role as a graduate. Within just five months, she attended a high-profile meeting with South African Ministers, an experience that fueled her determination to work even harder. Today, Jessica continues to attend high-level meetings, showcasing her impressive potential.

As a content creator, Jessica shares inspiring stories, valuable insights, and promotes positivity and self-empowerment, resonating with a growing audience. Jessica’s greatest passion is empowering young people to reach their full potential. She encourages youth to take control, pursue their passions, and strive for excellence, believing in the simple yet powerful message: believe in yourself, work hard, and never give up.

Jessica prioritizes self-care, advocating for activities that bring joy and empowerment. She balances work and play with a trusty to-do list, believing securing one’s future and having fun can coexist. In her free time, she enjoys reading novels, making money online, and outdoor activities.

Jessica’s mantra is “O ka se palelwe ke selo seo se sa boleleng,” reminding others to stay motivated and focused. Her advice to young people is simple: “Take risks, pursue your passions, and believe in yourself. Create the life you want.”

In conclusion, Jessica emphasizes, “Secure the bag! Life is cruel to people who are too relaxed.”

Facebook: Jessica Tshepiso Legodi
IG: Jessica Legodi
Tiktok: Jessica Legodi

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A Life Of Purpose And Compassion.

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In a world where kindness and generosity are often overlooked, Grace Mmatau Matlala shines as a beacon of hope and compassion. Grace is the proud founder of Life Miracles Organization and Kgapana Enterprise. As the founder of Life Miracles Organization, a remarkable organization dedicated to uplifting the community, Grace’s story is a testament to the transformative power of selflessness and determination.

Manyapye-based, born and bred in Ga-Mashashane Newlands, Grace is a proud Award-Winning Community Builder. Her organization is built on the principles of empathy and a deep commitment to empowering marginalized communities. Through various initiatives and programs, the organization provides essential support to those in need, fostering a sense of hope and dignity.

“My inspiration comes from my deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact in my community,” Grace says. “Witnessing the struggle of those around me, I was motivated to create a business that can offer incredible services but also give back.”

In addition to her philanthropic work, Grace is also a talented caterer and a décor expert, offering services that bring joy and beauty to countless lives, under the Kgapana Enterprise. Her keen eye for detail and creative flair have earned her a reputation as a masterful event designer.

Grace’s achievements have been recognized through several prestigious awards, including Limpopo SMME Best Community Builder and Best Female Entrepreneur, Sunday World Heroic Woman nominee, and Recipient of Sigma & Anglo American Zimele’s Business Startup Bootcamp.

Despite facing challenges, Grace remains committed to delivering quality services while contributing to community initiatives. “I actively engage with the community to understand their needs and identify ways my businesses can support them,” she says.

Grace has partnered with Operation Phakama (Modimolle) and Helping Hands Foundation to drive community outreach initiatives and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. She envisions expanding her business, Kgapana Enterprise, to new locations and growing Life Miracles Organization to tackle larger community projects. She further reassures us that the best is yet to come.

Mrs Matlala extends her deepest gratitude to Operation Phakama, Mr. Clifford Malose Pitjeng of Mogwasha Juices, Mablomo’s Media Expo & Projects, and her loving family and friends for their unwavering support and impact on her journey.

Facebook: Grace Mmatau Refilwe
TikTok: @mmatau27

Honoring The Brave: Army Forces Day In South Africa.

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February 21 marks a significant day in South Africa – Armed Forces Day. Although this year’s celebrations may be subdued due to the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it’s essential to acknowledge and honor the brave men and women who serve in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

Armed Forces Day commemorates the sinking of the SS Mendi on February 21, 1917, during World War I. The tragedy resulted in the loss of over 600 South African lives. This somber reminder of the sacrifices made by SANDF members underscores the importance of recognizing their bravery and dedication.

The SANDF plays a vital role in maintaining national security, promoting peace, and supporting humanitarian efforts. From border protection to peacekeeping missions, SANDF members put their lives on the line to safeguard South Africa’s interests and contribute to regional stability.

As we observe Armed Forces Day, we pay tribute to the SANDF members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We honor their memory, courage, and devotion to duty.

We also recognize the sacrifices made by SANDF families, who often endure long periods of separation and uncertainty. Your resilience and support are crucial to the SANDF’s success.

Message of Appreciation:
To all SANDF members, past and present, we express our deepest gratitude for your service. Your bravery, loyalty, and commitment to protecting our nation are invaluable. Although this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations may be muted, our appreciation and respect for the SANDF remain unwavering.

As we reflect on the significance of Armed Forces Day, let us remember the SANDF’s vital role in maintaining our nation’s security and promoting peace. We honor the brave men and women who serve, and we acknowledge the sacrifices made by their families.

Thank you, SANDF, for your service and sacrifice.

Elevate Your Style With The Ledwabas LEDJOY:KE NAKO Luxury Watches.

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At the intersection of traditional watchmaking expertise and innovative design lies Ledjoy:Ke Nako, a luxury watch brand that embodies resilience, strength, and African excellence.

Ledjoy:Ke Nako was born out of Lethabo ‘Ledjoy’ Ledwaba’s childhood fascination with time. Growing up in Ga-Mashashane, 33-year-old Lethabo’s daily 10-kilometer walk to and from school instilled in her the value of time management and resilience. Years later, she launched Ledjoy:Ke Nako, with a mission to inspire individuals to value time and take action.

“KE NAKO,” meaning “It is time” in Northern Sotho, serves as a rallying cry for Africa to produce high-quality timepieces that reflect the continent’s resilient spirit. Ledjoy timepieces are designed for the modern trailblazer – men who embody leadership, innovation, and a passion for creating positive change.

Ledjoy timepieces made a remarkable debut in October 2022 with an inaugural batch of 250 units. The brand’s unique blend of traditional watchmaking and innovative design resonated with customers, with 70 units sold by December 2022. The entire batch sold out by June 2023, demonstrating strong demand for Ledjoy’s luxury timepieces.

When they started operating in October 2022, Ledjoy:Ke Nako’s management team visited Chief M.M. Mashashane to introduce their brand and show respect for traditional protocol and authority. “As a gesture of respect and to seek the Chief’s blessings, we presented him with a Ledjoy timepiece”, explained the management team. “Following the meeting, the Chief endorsed the brand, leading to a social media buzz and a significant sales surge – 70% of start-up units sold in Mashashane”. This visit showcased Ledjoy:Ke Nako’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and community engagement, yielding tangible business results and setting a positive tone for future growth.

While Ledjoy:Ke Nako hasn’t formed any official partnerships, the brand has teamed up with a select group of South African artists for exclusive social media campaigns.

In a candid admission, Lethabo shared the realities of competing as a small business. “Like every small business, we have had to deal with the challenges of competing with well-established international businesses with a large budget.”

Ledjoy strives for excellence, treating each customer as a unique brand deserving of leadership status. The brand name, inspired by Lethabo’s nickname, represents a deeper concept: being “Led” by Purpose, individuals can attain a joyful tomorrow through resilience and determination.

Get Your Ledjoy:Ke Nako Timepiece Today!
@Ledjoy_SA,
Whatsapp 073 338 5391.

Empowering Communities Through Poultry Farming: The Story Of Ramokone Sannah Kwakwa.

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In the heart of Mmotong Makgofe Polokwane, a young entrepreneur is making waves in the poultry farming industry. Ramokone Sannah Kwakwa(25) is a farmer born and raised in Seshego Zone 1. She is the founder of The New Dawn Poultry Farm established in 2020 with a mission to contribute to food security and employment creation in her community.

Faced with the daunting reality of high graduate unemployment in South Africa, popularly known as Sannah took matters into her own hands. Rather than using her university bursary for everyday expenses, she made a bold decision to invest in her poultry farming venture. Her ambition was twofold: to generate employment opportunities and secure financial independence.

Sannah’s farm has become a beacon of hope for many in Mmotong Makgofe. By supplying high-quality broilers and table eggs to households, resellers, bakeries, butcher shops, and spaza shops, Sannah is helping to address food insecurity in the area. Her farm has also created job opportunities for local community members, providing them with a steady income and a sense of purpose.

But Sannah’s impact goes beyond just her farm. She is an inspiration to young entrepreneurs and farmers in her community, showing them that with hard work, resilience, and smart decision-making, they too can achieve success. Her motto, “Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Your backyard can build an empire!” has become a rallying cry for many young people in the area.

Sannah has completed various training programs to enhance her business and agricultural skills. Notable qualifications include:
> GIBS Graduate (Gordon Institute of Business Science) – 2023
> 12-Month Standard Bank Basali Development Program – 2024
>Marketing Course – Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture
>HACCP & ISO9001 Certification – Sponsored by SEFDA
>Agribusiness Management Training – Sponsored by Polokwane Municipality & Core Energy
>Record-Keeping Course
>Health Management Practices, Cleaning & Disinfecting, and Feed Management Course
>Certificate of Attendance – CCRED (Centre for Competition, Regulation & Economic Development)
>Funded by Oxfam South Africa – FAIR 4 ALL: Inclusive & Sustainable Gender Transformative Value Chains (SLP) – 2023
>Certificate of Attendance – CCBSA Coca-Cola Grow My Business Programme Workshop – 2023
>AI4BIZ: Digital Innovation & Artificial Intelligence for Small Businesses
>JBS Innovation Lab, Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg (Hybrid) – 2023/2024

“These qualifications have equipped me with expertise in business management, digital innovation, marketing, and agribusiness, enabling me to efficiently scale The New Dawn Poultry Farm”. Sannah expressed. The farmer’s achievements are a testament to her dedication and perseverance. She has further won the Bambelela Business Award and received R40,000 in funding, which has helped her expand her farm and increase production. She has also built a strong customer base and gained recognition and media coverage for her journey in farming.

As Sannah looks to the future, she is ambitious about expanding her farm and increasing her impact on the community. “In the next five years, I envision The New Dawn Poultry Farm becoming one of the leading egg suppliers in South Africa,” she says. Sannah’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship and farming can be a powerful tool for community development. By supporting local farmers like her, we can help create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

As a young farmer in a male-dominated industry, she credits her success to hard work, resilience, and smart decision-making. She advises aspiring farmers, especially women, to start small, educate themselves, be patient, and persistent. She also emphasizes the importance of networking and marketing through social media. She encourages others to join the industry, believing there is space for women and young entrepreneurs to thrive.

Sannah expresses her heartfelt gratitude to her family and friends for their unwavering support, her loyal customers for believing in her business, and young entrepreneurs and aspiring poultry farmers for their dedication to their dreams.

Follow Sannah’s journey on social media:
Facebook: The New Dawn Poultry Farm
IG: @newdawnpoultry
Twitter/X: @newdawnpoultry