“I wanted to create opportunities for people who are unable to do it on their own, give them a platform in ownership but most importantly to fight against socio-economic factors…”
Tjatjie Mokgele is a larger-than-life powerhouse, has an admirable selfless demeanour and a heart truly made of gold. Born June 02, 1998, at Hendrick Van Der Bijl Hospital, he is the founder and director of Sacred Location Concept which is an events company and a non-profit company – Mokgele Foundation, in pursuit of leaving an indelible mark in his community.
Mokgele attended Moletji primary school at Ga-Phaahla Monoge and completed his high school at Lebohang high school as well as Jet Nteo high school, both situated at Boipatong.
Tjatjie Mokgele is truly a multifaceted force, with dominating presences as a stockroom clerk, warehouse acting supervisor during 2008 until 2013 for Boardmans at Edcon group. His numerous impressive achievements and hunger for success are what makes him an undeniable force to be reckoned with.
In an exclusive interview with SA POSITIVE NEWS Mokgele-Kolo jnr Tjatjie describes himself as a “single, introvert and loving person who chose to dedicate his life to making a difference in the lives of the marginalized and impoverished communities.
“My passion resonates more with orphaned children that I currently help with toiletries on a monthly basis and counselling from January to December; I make sure that they go to school with proper school uniforms. I am a South African Heroes Awards winner 2023, SABC 2 hero of the month August 2023, Thobela FM hero of the month September 2022, Capricorn FM champion of the month July 2022, I have been honoured with a recognition award at GBV Awards 2024 and many more others.”
Mokgele Foundation is an NPC that focuses on helping the neediest in the communities. It was founded in 2015, officially established in 2021 and has since hosted Easter giveaways with Dr. Winnie Mashaba in 2022. The foundation also hosted Mandela Day with Capricon FM, Laduma hardware and TT lifestyle.
Mokgele Foundation went on to host many more events that have in many ways benefited the community at large in the year, 2022.
* 2022 August hosted the girl child talk tour with Mrs SA Finalist Lindiwe Mampa.
* 2022 August launched the 1st annual woman’s conference.
* 2022 September, honoured by Thobela FM for community service acknowledgement and became a part of Bontle Blush Women’s Day celebration at Furaha Guest House.
* 2022 August, partnered with Pleasure Tsa Manyalo for their 1st annual women’s conference.
* 2022 October, partnered with African Response and Nedbank for offering financial literacy in various villages.
* 2022 November offered services in partnership with SEDA to schools and in December 2022, a partnership with Phuti Ya Tholo Events and Miss Universe Africa Lucia Mphaphele on Christmas groceries giveaways was formed.
Tjatjie Mokgele is a man that wears many hats, SA POSITIVE NEWS asked the humanitarian giant which hat is his most favourite:
“That would have to be Mokgele foundation because I found my purpose in it and through Mokgele Foundation’s impact in society I have found peace and inspiration”.
“I chose NPC simply because I wanted to create opportunities for people who are unable to do it on their own, give them a platform in ownership but most importantly to fight against socio-economic factors by empowering the poorest communities with necessary skills and creating job opportunities e.g. farming projects and handwork studies”.
His journey to success hasn’t been smooth sailing at all, having grown up in a religious family of 9 children, 3 girls and 6 boys with both parents present and fully committed to parenthood – teaching Mokgele and his siblings the love of God, humanity, culture, traditions.
“As the chosen and gifted child, I grew up feeling the pain of being isolated by other kids, seeing sacred things that many couldn’t see and not getting the love and attention I needed. At that time, I couldn’t understand my position because I was young. I have been through the most like surviving car accidents, snakes wanting to bite me and food poisoning because some people couldn’t control their hatred over me. My childhood was faced with lots of challenges, but God made it possible for me to make it this far”, said Tjatjie Mokgele.
Mokgele Foundation is a nominee at this year’s 6th South African Heroes Awards under the community service category. The awards honour and celebrate unsung heroes who are building their communities.
SA POSITIVE NEWS Asked what this nomination means to him Mokgele: “It means that my work and efforts are acknowledged across the country but most importantly this award is a key to open more closed doors hence they are recognized nationwide. Through these awards, our voices will be heard by those who we knock at their doors.”
The future certainly looks bright for Mokgele Foundation. Tjatjie plans to elevate his brand and collaborate with organisations that align with his ethos and vision.
To vote for Mokgele Foundation, SMS “SAHA MOKGELE” to 47439
SMS costs R3. Free SMS Do Not Apply.
Voting lines open until 15 September 2024.
Why should you vote for Mokgele Foundation? Tjatjie Mokgele has the perfect answer for you.
“This award will bring motivation and inspiration to those who are looking up to me. This award will bring change in my growth, and it will add value to my portfolio when poaching for funds and support.”
The 6th annual South African Heroes Awards (SAHAs) are set to take place on September 21, 2024, at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg. Tickets cost R350 and are now available here:
To keep up with Mokgele Foundation online, follow them on all their social media platforms: Facebook: Mokgele Foundation
Tiktok: Mokgele-Kolo jnr – Alternatively, email: Mokgelefoundation@gmail.com.
WhatsApp number: 076 784 3908
SA POSITIVE NEWS applauds Tjatjie Mokgele for the exceptional work he’s doing for the community of Boipatong and looking forward to seeing how he effortlessly continues to use his platform to uplift and amplify the Black Humanitarian Voice.
By Sinenzolo Mondi
