Carol Rafapa

2024 General Elections.

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South Africa’s national president has announced that the country’s general election will take place on 29 May 2024. This is an important event for the country, as it will determine who will lead the nation for the next five years. The election will be closely watched by both South Africans and the international community, and is expected to be highly competitive. There are many issues at stake, including the country’s struggling economy and high unemployment rate.

The main political parties vying for power in the upcoming election are the ruling ANC (African National Congress), the DA (Democratic Alliance), and the EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters). The ANC has been in power since the end of apartheid, but has faced growing criticism over corruption and economic mismanagement. The DA is the official opposition, and has positioned itself as a more pro-business and economically liberal alternative to the ANC. The EFF is a more radical party that advocates for land expropriation and increased state ownership of the economy.

One of the biggest issues facing South Africa is poverty and inequality, which remain high despite years of economic growth. The ANC has pledged to continue it’s social welfare programs, while the DA has called for more market-based solutions. The EFF has called for a more radical redistribution of wealth, including through the nationalization of key industries. Other issues facing the country include crime, corruption, and unemployment. The parties have different approaches to addressing these issues, but all agree that something needs to be done.

Voting is one of the most important civic duties we have as citizens. By casting our votes, we are not only choosing the people who will represent us in government, but also shaping the policies and direction of our country. It is a powerful way to make our voices heard and to hold our elected officials accountable. In a democracy, every vote matters, and every vote counts. No matter who you support, it is vital to participate in the electoral process and to use your voice to help shape the future of our country.

The outcome of the election will have important implications for South Africa’s foreign policy. The ANC has been a vocal supporter of Africa’s liberation movements, and has maintained close ties with countries like Cuba and Venezuela. The DA has taken a more pro-Western stance, and has called for closer ties with the United States and Europe. The EFF has a more nationalist foreign policy, and has called for a more critical stance towards Western countries. The election could also have implications for South Africa’s role.

In addition to the policy issues at stake, there are also concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. South Africa’s electoral commission has come under fire for it’s management of the voter registration process, and there have been concerns about voter intimidation and manipulation. All of these issues could impact the credibility of the election and the legitimacy of the government that emerges from it.

Even if you didn’t register to vote in the upcoming election, it’s not too late! You can still register to vote online, and should have your South African ID, passport or temporary certificate with you on the day of the election. It’s important to remember that your vote is confidential, and you should feel free to vote for the candidate or party of your choice. No one should pressure you to vote a certain way, and no one has the right to know how you voted. When you cast your vote, you’re exercising your right to shape the future of our nation.

To find a voting station in your area, visit the Independent Electoral Commission’s website or call their hotline. You will need to enter your address or the name of your municipality to find a list of stations. The list will include the name and address of the station, as well as the voting district number and ward number. When you register to vote online, you can also find a map of the voting districts on the IEC’s website.

This election is not just about choosing a new government, but about the future direction of South Africa. The country faces many challenges, and the outcome of the election will have a significant impact on its ability to meet those challenges. It is a time of great uncertainty, but also of great potential. The people of South Africa have an opportunity to shape the future of their country, and to ensure that it becomes a more just, prosperous, and democratic nation.

How To Apply For The UIF.

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The Unemployment Insurance Fund is a South African social security system that provides temporary financial assistance to employees who are unable to work due to illness, injury, or retrenchment.UIF is funded by a compulsory contribution from both employers and employees, and is administered by the Department of Labour. To be eligible for UIF benefits, a registered employee who has lost their job or unable to work, must have made at least 12 months of contribution to the fund before been unable to work, and be between the ages of 18 and 60.

To apply for UIF benefits, you will need to submit certain documents to prove your eligibility. The first document you will need is your South African 13-digit barcoded identity document (ID). You will also need a copy of your latest payslip and bank statement. If you are married, you will need to provide your marriage certificate. If you have children, you will need to provide their birth certificates. If you are unable to work due to illness or injury, you will need to submit a medical certificate.

The UIF application process can be done either online or in person at a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office. To apply online, you will need to visit the Department of Labour’s website and fill out the UIF application form. You will need to provide all the required documents, as listed above. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a reference number which you can use to track the status of your application. You can also apply in person at any SASSA office. Simply take all the required documents with you when you visit the office.

Once your application has been approved, you will need to claim your UIF benefits. To do this, you will need to submit a UI-2.8 claim form. You can get this form from any SASSA office or download it from the Department of Labour’s website. The form must be completed in full and submitted with the required documents. These documents include your South African 13-digit barcoded identity document, your latest bank statement, and your proof of address. Once you have submitted your claim form, you will be contacted by the Department of Labour to verify your details.

When it comes to receiving your UIF benefits, you have two options: you can either have the money paid into your bank account or you can receive it in cash. Having the money paid directly into your bank account is the more convenient option, as you won’t have to go to a SASSA pay point to collect your benefits. However, if you don’t have a bank account, or if you prefer to collect your benefits in person, you can do so at a SASSA pay point.

There are a few reasons why having a bank account is important when receiving UIF benefits. Firstly, it allows for the easy and safe transfer of funds from the UIF to your account. Secondly, it makes it easier to track and monitor your payments, and to ensure that you are receiving the correct amount. Finally, having a bank account can help to protect you from fraud and scams, as all payments will be made directly to your account rather than being given to you in cash.

If your claim for UIF benefits is rejected, don’t panic! You can appeal the decision and have your case reviewed. The first step is to find out why your claim was rejected. The Department of Labour should provide you with a written explanation of the decision. Once you know the reason, you can begin to gather evidence and prepare your appeal. The appeals process is your opportunity to present your case and convince the decision-makers that you are entitled to receive UIF benefits. If you have any questions about the appeals process, you can contact the Department of Labour for more information.

The amount you receive will depend on your earnings and how long you have been contributing to the fund. If you are having trouble getting your UIF benefits, there are a number of places you can go for help,the UIF Call Centre, which is open from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. You can also contact your local Labour Centre or Labour Department, or reach out to an independent organization that provides advice on UIF and other social security issues. Also, the South African Human Rights Commission may be able to assist you if you feel you have been unfairly treated. There are also a number of NGOs that work with the unemployed and vulnerable people in South Africa, and they may be able to provide you with advice or support.

UIF benefits are an important source of financial support for those who are unemployed or otherwise unable to work. While the application process can be complex, there are a number of resources available to help you navigate the system and get the benefits you need. By taking the time to understand the process and preparing the required documents, you can ensure that your application is successful and that you receive the support you deserve. It is also important to remember that UIF benefits are just one part of the support available to those in need.

People’s DJ, Zer015DJ Making Waves.

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Marcello Maraba is a force to be reckoned with in the world of music. He has made a name for himself, making people happy, behind the DJ booth. He throws some elegant and sophisticated events in his hometown, his name has an influence over the region. Marcello’s unique style and energetic performances have made him a favorite among music lovers, and he shows no signs of slowing down.

Marcello is a Disc jockey from ga-Mashashane Moshate, better known as Zer015DJ. He is known for his vibrant tunes behind the DJ booth and breath-taking event organising skills. He is the mastermind behind the anticipated and well-received, Zer015DJ One Man Show get-together. He started his DJing journey at a very young age, alongside his best friend, Trigger hitmaker- Lebza Lebzito Legodi.

Marcello has a carefree childhood that involved playing on the streets and sharing Kotas bought from a local tuck shop with friends. Today Marcello is one of Polokwane’s most prominent DJ. Growing up he was exposed to different types of music. At home, his family listened to Gospel music while at taxi ranks and tuck shops he heard kwaito and traditional music.

The cue and play master says he has been inspired by a wide range of artists and genres. From the afro tech, old school and amapiano sounds to hip-hop. The DJ has drawn inspiration from a diverse array of artists,genres and styles. He says he also take inspiration from the local music scene, which is full of creative and innovative artists.

This young man’s path to becoming a successful DJ wasn’t always easy. He says he faced challenges and setbacks along the way, but his passion for music kept him going. He started out playing small gigs and local events, and slowly but surely, his popularity began to grow. With hard work and dedication, he was able to turn his passion into a career, been a resident at many of Mashashane’s hip and happening events.

Zer015DJ’s music has had a profound effect on the local music scene. His blend of genres and unique sound has inspired other artists to experiment with new styles and push the boundaries of music, especially artists He has worked with. He also helped to put their hometown on the map as a hub for creativity and innovation. Many young artists look up to him as a role model, and his influence is sure to continue for years to come.

Marcello has achieved a lot in his career, including being awarded the TUT Battle of the DJs 2017 with his best friend, Lebzito. The two were a duo back in the days.”As we walked the streets of Shosanguve, we came across a poster plugged on the wall, hours before the competition. We wanted a challenge. Unprepared, we set the hall on fire and won”. Said the DJ. He also won Battle of the DJs 2018 at Europa in Pretoria, and Battle of the DJs 2023 at The Venue in Seshego township, and being a resident DJ at several of the most prestigious clubs and venues in the country including The Hospot and The Venue. His style is unique and captivating, and he has gained a loyal following of fans who can’t get enough of his music. With his talent, hard work, and dedication, Zer015DJ is sure to continue making waves in the music industry for years to come.

Zer015’s productions are on to become anthems for the local music scene, and his catchy beats and danceable rhythms will have people of all ages moving. Marcello unfolds that he has over 7 unreleased tracks. Only time will tell as to when he could release them. Maraba’s popularity shows no signs of warning. People can’t get enough of the DJ’s signature sound.

Marcello’s success hasn’t been limited to his own career. He has also been instrumental in helping to launch the careers of other artists in the area. By offering DJing lessons and collaborating with up-and-coming musicians and featuring them in his songs, the DJ has helped to give them the exposure they need to make it in the industry. In this way, Marcello has become a true mentor and inspiration to many.

The support of family is essential to any artist, and Zer015DJ is no exception. The DJ credits his daughter with providing the inspiration and motivation to keep going, even on the toughest days. When the going gets tough, the DJ says, “I think of my daughter, and how she looks up to me. It reminds me why I do what I do, and it gives me the strength to keep pushing forward.”

The future looks bright for Zer015DJ. He has big plans to expand his reach and take his music to new audiences. With his talent, drive and passion, there’s no doubt that he will continue to make a lasting impact on the local music scene and beyond.

Facebook: Marcello Maraba
Instagram: minister.of.vibezzz
Twitter: Zer015Dj
Ticktok: Zer015dj

Be Aware Of Investment Scams.

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Research suggests that investment scams are on the rise, and there is no definitive estimate for how many cases are reported each day. One recent study found that over 60,000 complaints were filed with the Federal Trade Commission in 2018 alone, and the number is likely to be even higher today. It’s estimated that only a small percentage of victims actually report the crime, so the true number of investment scams is likely much higher. It’s a growing problem, and it’s important to be aware of the risks and know how to protect yourself.

Investment scams are common fraudulent schemes that promise high returns on investments, but end up costing people their money. These scams can take many forms, such as ponzi schemes, pyramid schemes, affinity fraud, or advance-fee fraud. Everyone is a target , but they often target vulnerable people, such as retirees or those who are struggling financially. The perpetrators of these scams may use high-pressure sales tactics or false information to convince people to invest.

These scams can have a significant impact on people’s emotional well-being. The stress, anxiety, and sense of betrayal that victims often experience can be overwhelming and take a toll on their mental health. Victims may also suffer from depression, low self-esteem, and feelings of shame. Many victims feel like they have been taken advantage of, and they may have trouble trusting others. Some people even feel ashamed that they cannot tell anyone about their experience, which can make the emotional impact even worse.

Been scammed, is not the end of the world. There are people who can help you get through this difficult time. You can contact authorities and report the scam, reach out to a financial advisor, lawyer, or therapist who can help you understand your options and make a plan for moving forward. You may feel overwhelmed and scared, but victims eventually get through this. 

Moving on from such tragic can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Taking things one day at a time and focusing on making small, positive changes in your life can ease the pain. For example, set small, achievable goals for yourself each day and find joy in the simple things. Reconnect with family and friends and find support in your community. Take care of your physical and mental health by eating well, exercising, and practicing mindfulness.

Investment scams can be devastating, both financially and emotionally. However, there are ways to recover from a scam and rebuild your life. First, accept what has happened and don’t blame yourself. Next, take steps to report the scam and try to get your money back. Consider talking to a financial advisor, lawyer, or therapist to help you through the process. W

While there are many legitimate investment opportunities out there, it’s also important to be on the lookout for investment scams. The best thing you can do is to be aware of the red flags and do your research. First, be wary of any company or individual that uses high-pressure sales tactics, such as limited time offers or promises of unrealistic returns. Be sure to check out the company or individual offering the investment with a reputable source, such as the SEC or your state securities regulator. Consult with a financial advisor who can help you determine if an investment opportunity is legitimate. Taking these steps can help you avoid falling victim to an investment scam.If you see any of the red flags we discussed, it’s best to walk away.

If you’ve already been scammed, don’t be embarrassed or ashamed. Report the scam to the proper authorities and take steps to protect yourself from further harm. The best way to avoid being scammed is to educate yourself about the risks.

In South Africa, the emergency number for reporting scams is the South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) hotline. The number is 0861 101 248. This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and it’s free to call. You can also report scams online at safps.org.za. The SAFPS is a non-profit organization that works to prevent and combat fraud and scams in South Africa.

“Recovery is a process – it takes time and patience”.

The Creative Eye of Kgothatso Shadung, The Photographer For Days.

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Credited for his best photography skills, capturing prestigious photos with unmeasurable quality that has people talking, the 29-year-old Kgothatso Shadung better known as Shimi was and raised in the gritty streets of Mashashane Sebora, several kilometres away from the Polokwane CBD. Shimi has been a photographer for a good 5years.

For Shimi, becoming the talk of the town Photographer was not a rushed decision. He says he only bought his camera for personal use, not knowing that it was actually a blessing in disguise, unfolding a talent he never thought he had. He adored taking pictures of the unthinkable, and those of the sunset view, flowers in spring and his dogs that are very close to his heart. Shimi says he grew in love with photography whilst in it, and he found pleasure.

Whether you’re looking for a photographer to capture the excitement of an outdoor adventure or the elegance of an indoor event, you’ll find no one better than Shimi. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for capturing moments both grand and intimate, he is the person you can follow, trust and use with assurance. He will ensure that your photos are truly something to treasure. With Shimi as your photographer, you can rest assured that your special moments will be captured beautifully.

For the past 4-5 years, Shimi has been the go-to photographer for some of Mashashane’s biggest events, from weddings to concerts to festivals, including the Annual Mashashane Christmas Chillas. His ability to capture the spirit and energy of these events is unparalleled, and his photos have been featured in multiple publications. Shimi’s clients rave about his professionalism, creativity, and knack for creating timeless memories.

Shimi says that photography is no easy feat, however he’s passionate about capturing the perfect moments makes it less stressful. He credits his success to his love for his craft and the joy he finds in sharing his art with others. Whether it’s a simple family portrait or a grand celebration, Shimi’s passion and dedication always shine through his work.

The Photographer tells us that editing photos after a long day or night of shooting is no walk in the park. People often assume that photography is simply a hobby for him, but in reality, he says it’s his livelihood. The COVID-19 pandemic hit hard and left many people’s jobs at the edge of the grave, but Shimi persevered and continued to pursue his passion. He’s grateful to be able to make a living doing what he loves, and he’s always striving to improve his craft. He’s truly an inspiration to others who are pursuing their own passions.

According to photographer Shimi, one of the biggest misconceptions about his work is that clients expect him to send them photos immediately after the event. However, Shimi explains that editing takes up a lot of his time and can take several weeks to complete. He says that if clients were aware of this, they might give him the time and space he needs to do his work best, resulting in beautiful photos that will be treasured for years to come. He believes that a little patience goes a long way in creating truly stunning images.

Shadung is a young photographer with big dreams and even bigger ambitions. He says that every day, he strives to improve his skills and create even more stunning images for his clients. He extends a heartfelt thanks to all the event organizers, clients, friends, and family who have supported him on his journey so far. He says that without their belief in him, he wouldn’t be where he is today. He hopes to continue growing as a photographer and to bring joy and beauty to the lives of many through his work.

If you’re looking for a professional portrait or simply want to capture a special moment, Shimi is the photographer for you. He offers one-on-one photo sessions, as well as wedding, graduation parties, and unveiling ceremonies. He also does house calls. With his passion for photography and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can be sure that you’ll be happy with the results.

Facebook: Shimi Kgothatso

Instagram: shimi_kgothatso

Calls/WhatsApp: +27 79 454 9971

Another Pandemic: Mashashane Clinic Closes Up On Weekends.

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For many people, weekends are a time to relax, spend time with family, and recharge for the upcoming week. However, for those who needs healthcare, weekends can present a challenge.

When the clinic is closed, it can be difficult to get the care you need. Residents of Mashashane has it dry when their community clinic closes on weekends and not been able to access medical care. It is even more drier for students that attend school everyday on weekdays. The impact of weekend clinic closure is significant, both in terms of individual health and public health.

For individuals, not been able to access medical care on weekends can lead to delayed treatment, worsening conditions, and a greater risk of complications. Public health is also affected, as studies have shown that lack of access to medical care on weekends can lead to an increase rate of hospitalization, longer hospitals stays, and a higher cost of care. These are serious issues that must be addressed in order to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.

Mashashane Clinic operates Mondays to Fridays including national holidays. It opens at 7am and closes at 4pm on the dot. No night shifts, no access to an ambulance. The official Mashashane clinic statement that was issued on the 1st week of December 2023 stated that the Clinic will be changing it’s operating days as of the 18th December 2023 until further notice. The clinic’s Operational Manager that is said to have bid farewell to the clinic on Friday 09th February 2023 said that the clinic experiencing shortage of professional midwives. That was before she left.

On weekends, a lot happens. People gets injuried. It can be car accidents, mob attacks, streets fight and so forth. What must happen when the community clinic is closed ? One employee at the clinic tells Reddot that they have limited control over the clinic’s hours and policies. According to the employee, they simply follow the instructions of the clinic management. Even though the employee understood the frustration of people who need care on weekends, they said they had no power in this matter. They encouraged the community to contact the clinic management with their concerns.

The chairperson of the local youth league acknowledged that they had received many complaints about the clinic’s weekend closure. They expressed sympathy for people who were unable to access care on the weekends, and said that the issue was being taken seriously. The chairperson explained that the league was still working on a solution, and hoped to have a resolution soon. They encouraged community members to continue voicing their concerns and ideas.

Phuthego Ledwaba is a student at the local high school and has shared his concerns about the clinic’s weekend closure. Phuthego said that they have to miss school on weekdays to visit the clinic, or put up with the long travel distance to get access to get the care they needed on weekends. He expressed frustration at having to choose between school and health, and said that something needed to change. ‘We shouldn’t have to choose between our education and our health,’ he said.”

The impact of the clinic’s weekends closure extends beyond students. Newborns, pregnant women, and elders with chronic illnesses such as cancer, stroke and diabetes all rely on the clinic for care. Without access to the clinic on weekends, these vulnerable groups may struggle to get the care they need.

Mashashane residents only need the health care access that is suitable for them, and they are hoping for a change in this matter. Mr Ramashala says that the health and well-being of the community must be a top priority. The residents of Mashashane are trying to find a solution that works for everyone, and they encourage all community members to continue sharing their ideas. “We are stronger when we work together, and by working together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the care they need, when they need it.” Said Mr. Ramashala

The Human Cost Of False Rape Accusations.

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Accusations of rape have the power to destroy lives, whether they are true or false. For those who have been falsely accused, the consequences can be devastating. Not only do they face the stigma of being accused of a serious crime, but they may also lose everything they worked hard for. We must take steps to prevent false accusations while also supporting the real victims of rape.

According to statistics from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, studies have found that the rate of false reporting for rape is between 2% and 10%, which is similar to the rate of false reporting for other crimes. However, the stigma associated with rape means that false accusations can have a particularly devastating impact on the lives of those who are accused.

There are a number of reasons why people may falsely accuse someone of rape. Sometimes, it is a case of mistaken identity, where the accuser mistakenly believes that the accused is the perpetrator. In other cases, the accuser may have a grudge against the accused and is seeking to harm them. In rare cases, false accusations may be made as a way to gain attention or sympathy, and nowadays, for quick bucks. It is important to remember that most people who come forward with accusations of rape are telling the truth and deserve to be believed. However, we must also take steps to protect the rights of those who are falsely accused too.

The consequences of false accusations can be severe for those who are falsely accused. They may lose their jobs, friends, and family. In some cases, they may even be forced to move away from their homes. The emotional and financial toll of false accusations can be significant, and it can take years to rebuild a life after being falsely accused. Even when a person is exonerated, the stigma of being accused of rape can remain for a lifetime.

There are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent false accusations while still supporting victims of rape. First, it is important to have a fair and impartial investigation process that takes into account the rights of both the accuser and the accused. Second, there should be a clear distinction between a rape accusation and a conviction, so that people who are accused are not automatically assumed to be guilty. Finally, there should be support services available for both victims and those who are falsely accused, to help them stay sane, to avoid depression that might lead to cased such as suicidal thoughts.

It is important to educate people about the prevalence of false accusations and the consequences they can have. By raising awareness of this issue, we can help to reduce the number of false accusations and the harm they cause. It is also important to provide accurate information about rape and sexual assault, so that people understand what these crimes are and how to report them. This will help to ensure that real victims of rape are taken seriously and get the support they need.

In addition to education and awareness, it is important to have strong support systems in place for victims of rape and sexual assault. These systems should include access to counseling, medical care, and legal support. Victims should also be able to report their experiences without fear of retaliation or further harm. With these systems in place, victims can feel safe coming forward and seeking the help they need, while those who are falsely accused can also receive the support they need. This will help to ensure that everyone involved in a rape case is treated fairly and with respect.

Reddot talks to a 31-year-old Male from ga-Mabula outside Mokopane CBDs. He says he lost his job as a teacher, resulting to the mother of his child denying him access to his child because he was falsely accused of rape and failed to clear his name until today. He says his ex-girlfriend accused him of rape after she assaulted him and endured some serious injuries because she was insecure.

The accident led to him breaking things off with the girlfriend. At a later stage, the lady pressed charges and said he had raped him. “I don’t know if I’ll ever recover from this. I wish my ex-girlfriend could could tell the truth, so I can get reinstated as a teacher. This has affected the relationship between me and my family”. Said the victim.

False accusations of rape are a serious issue that need to be addressed, but they should not overshadow the very real experiences of victims of rape. It is possible to support both victims and those who are falsely accused, and it is important to do so in order to create a just and fair society. We can do this by providing support for victims, educating people about the issue, and ensuring that everyone involved in a rape case is treated fairly and with respect.

FROM SMALL TOWN TO BIG DREAMS: The story of Alex Teffu.

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Alex Ngoasheng Teffu is a 25-year-old South African student athlete who has been running since 2005 whilst in primary. Growing up in a small town in South Africa, he never imagined that one day he would be make it this big. But after years of hard work and dedication, Alex’s talent was recognized and he was awarded a sports scholarship to study at Colby Community College in the United States of America by Coach Brady Johnson.

Alex was born and raised in ga-Mashashane Manyapye in Limpopo Province ,South Africa. He grew up as an energetic, confident and sports orientated person, with a bubbly personality. He is a middle distance runner, running from 800M to 10KM. He says he enjoys running because it is good for his mental health and has lots of benefits for him.

The process of getting the scholarship was not easy for Alex. He had to work hard, day in day out, and go through the storms. But he persevered, and his hard work paid off when he was offered a full scholarship to go a college in the United States for 2years since the previous year, 10th August.. He had to leave his life, family and friends behind, but he was excited for the opportunity to pursue his dream of athletics at the highest level. Moving to a new country was not easy, but Alex made friends and quickly settled and adjusted to his new life in the US.

Teffu says he had to balance the demands of his training with his studies, but he was determined to succeed in both areas. “The first few months were challenging, but I found my rhythm and started to excel both on and off the field. My coach was impressed with my dedication and work ethic.

As Alex settled into his new life in US, he began to make an impact to the other students. He was a natural, and his fellow students looked up to him for his determination and positive attitude.

Alex is a gifted athlete. He represented his home province of Limpopo at the national championships, where he won several prestigious awards. He was also crowned the athlete of the year by the Maune Circuit, a regional sports organization. This recognition only added to his already impressive resume, and he was well on his way to achieving great things both on and off the soccer field.

Alex was a member of the Mohlakamotala Athletics club, which is known for it’s rigorous training program and elite athletes from 2016-2023 July. He trained hard with the club, and his dedication paid off when he began to achieve success in competitions. He was grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a club that allowed him to grow as an athlete and a person, and he credited the club’s trainers and staff with helping him reach his full potential as an athlete.

Despite his busy schedule, Alex always makes time for the things he loves. He is an avid reader, and says he enjoys spending time with his friends. “I know the importance of balancing my academics and athletic pursuits with my personal life, and I make sure to prioritize time for relaxation and fun. This helps me to stay motivated and focused on my goals. I want to see myself as one of the best athletes in the world, representing my country in global competitions,” he said.

Alex expressed his gratitude to to his mother, grandmother and local philanthropists Mr. Motsepe and Mr. Shella Gwangwa for their support. Their generous donations made it possible for Alex to travel to the United States to compete in a prestigious sporting event. “Without their help, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity,” Alex said. “I am so grateful for their kindness and generosity, and I hope to make them proud”. Alex’s story is a testament to the power of community support and generosity.

Facebook:Alex Thaban Teffu

MATCH -IT-UP WITH MALEBO DOLO’S GOALDIGGERS FASHION.

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Meet Malebo Dolo, a hardworking entrepreneur who started her online boutique, Goaldiggers Fashion from scratch. From humble beginnings, with the love for fashion and her talent for running businesses, she turned her passion for fashion into a thriving business that has brought joy to costumers nationwide, all while juggling the responsibilities of her 9-5 job and her Kota Spot.

Malebo’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and the power of hard work. Born and bred in the depth of ga-Mashashane Jupiter in Limpopo Polokwane, Malebo is the CEO of Goaldiggers Fashion that approaches her work with grit, confidence and dedication. Goaldiggers Fashion was established in 2017.

For Malebo, it all started with a childhood love for fashion. She says she would spend hours flipping through magazines, dreaming of the day when she could be old and be a fashion designer. But life had other plans for the Fashionista, and she ended up in a completely different career. Years later, when she stumbled upon an opportunity to have the piece of pie in what she has always loved, and saw the potential for selling clothes online, those childhood dreams came flooding back. This time, she decided to grab the opporunity with both hands and turn her passion into a reality.

As Malebo’s business grew, she began to develop a unique style for her boutique. She focused on finding high-quality, stylish pieces for both ladies and gents at an affordable price. She also made sure to provide excellent customer service, quickly responding to questions and concerns. Her customers appreciated her personal touch, and many of them became repeat buyers. They loved the unique items she found and the personal attention she gave them. In this way, she built a loyal following of customers who kept coming back for more.

As her online business thrived, Malebo began to dream of opening physical stores in the future. She says she sees the potential for her boutique to become a household name, and wants to offer her customers the chance to shop in person. She envisions a store that would be a destination for fashion lovers, where they could find one-of-a-kind pieces that they couldn’t find anywhere else. “I know it would take hard work and dedication to make my dream a reality, but I am determined to making it happen”.

Malebo faced many obstacles on her journey, but she persevered and never lost sight of her goals. “Even when things get tough, take a deep breath and keep moving forward. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the goal. Take small steps and celebrate your successes along the way. And always believe in yourself – you have the power to make your dreams come true”. Says Malebo.

One of the business ventures Malebo was very fond of, is her Kota Spot business that later failed but says she is planning to re-open in the near future. “Juggling from my 9-5 job and my Kota Spot that was inspired by my love for food, was not possible. I had to only open on weekends as I was working on weekdays, it didn’t make a business sense and I decided to hire someone to help me on weekdays. That was the worst dicision I ever made, but we grow from such” said Malebo. The helper stole from Malebo and she couldn’t recover from that.

When Malebo is not working and on her boutique, she says enjoys spending time in the kitchen, cooking her favorite dishes. She also loves to stay active, and she goes to the gym regularly to stay in shape. She finds that cooking and working out are great ways to relax and clear her mind, and they help her to recharge and stay focused on her goals. For Malebo, work-life balance is key to her success.

Malebo reflects on all that she’s grateful for. She’s thankful for the opportunities she’s had to build her business, and she’s especially grateful for her customers, who have helped to make her boutique a success. She’s looking forward to continuing to serve them in the future, and she’s excited about all the possibilities that lie ahead.

“Keep swimming, it gets better. Because if you stop, you’ll drown”.

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TEEBK-FLESH THE POET DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY.

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Tibiki ‘TeeBK’ Mokonyane is a Provincial Poet representing Limpopo. She is recognized for her unique style and thought-provoking work. Her work is known for it’s beauty, it’s emotion, and it’s ability to make readers and listeners think and feel. Her poems have been called ‘hauntingly beautiful’ and ‘stirringly emotional,’ and she’s been praised for her skillful use of language and imagery. But it’s not just her words that make her stand out – it’s her unique perspective and her ability to make readers see the world in a new light.

15-year-old TeeBK was born and raised in Mashashane Segoahleng outside Polokwane. She often use vivid descriptions and metaphors to create a sense of wonder and magic. Her poems are full of evocative phrases and striking images, which transport the reader to another world. The poet’s style has been described as lyrical and dreamlike.

TeeBK says she fell deeply in love with poetry at age of 9, doing her grade 4 in 2017. She was greatly inspired by the 2012 South Africa’s Got Talent Winner Bohlale Boikanyo who is also an actress. “I realized my ability to write and recite poems when I first felt the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful with words. I found that poetry is a powerful way to express myself, and it’s something that I truly enjoy.

The poet shared that their work was also influenced by Mzwakhe The Poet and Mr Matalane. These writers’ influence is evident in the poet’s early works. For example, Mzwakhe The Poet’s influence can be seen in Tibiki’s first collection, which she wrote when she was only 11 years old. In this collection, she explored similar themes and used similar imagery to Mzwakhe The Poet. This shows how influential this writer is in shaping TeeBK’s style and subject matter.

The award-winning poet tells the Reddot that in all her poems, tittled Gender Based Violence remains one of her best work. She says the poem aims to raise awareness and to empower survivors. In her own words, she said: “I want to teach people that it is never the victim’s fault, and that there is hope and healing. I also want to encourage people to speak out, end GBV, and work towards a world where everyone is safe and respected”. This poem is a contribution towards this goal and has scored her 1 of 2 of her awards.


Tibiki is a young energetic,responsible, reliable and trustworthy person. Hence she has been elected as the President of the LRC 2024 at her school, Boetse Secondary in Moletjie Mabokelele. She says been the LRC President is both rewarding and challenging. “It’s rewarding because I get to make a difference in my school and help other learners discover their love for writting and reading. It is challenging because it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. But overall, it’s an incredibly fulfilling experience”. As she continued, she said it was inspiring and humbling. “There’s nothing as heartwarming as seeing the joy on a student’s face when they discover the power of words”. She said.

“My wish is to continue writing and sharing my work with others, use my poetry to inspire and uplift young people, make a positive impact in my community. I want to grow, explore and experiment new forms and styles. Ultimately, I just want to keep doing what I love. I’m excited for what this journey has in store for me. TeeBK is the Award-winning Talent Search Auditions Poet 2023 and Mashashane’s Got Talent 2nd Position that was held at Mashfun Park in 2021, and has been interviewed at Moletjie FM the previous year.

The bubbly Poet says she’s proud of the impact her poems have on others. “I’ve had people telling me that my poetry has helped them through difficult times, and inspired them to pursue their own creative passions. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my words have made a difference in someone’s life. I’m greatful for the recognition I receive for my work, including awards and publications. But ultimately, it’s the impact on others that makes my heart skip a beat”. She nodded.

Mokonyane says her Mother has been her biggest supporter and my greatest inspiration. She has encouraged her to follow her passion and has been there since day 1. “She has taught me so much about life, and I am forever greatful. To Her, my family, friends, teachers and followers”.

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