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Former Ms RADP turns social worker

19 May 2016

Miss RADP, an initiative aimed at promoting inclusiveness of young women in the mainstream society as well as building their self-esteem is making a big difference in one Tshepo Mmualefe’s life.

Having started out as an ordinary woman in the sleepy village of Kgomodiatshaba, Ms Mmualefhe has traversed a path that would later on open opportunities leading to the realisation of her dreams after being crowned Miss RADP Kgatleng 2014/15.

The 26-year-old holds a Diploma in Adult Education from the University of Botswana and a certificate in Social Work from Bosa Bosele and she now lives her dream of helping other people, thanks to government’s affirmative action. 

Today she beams with smiles as she sits comfortably in her office at Kgomodiatshaba, where she serves the village as a social worker.

“Miss RADP has opened doors for me. Being crowned the queen was a cherry on top as I was later employed by Kgatleng District Council as an assistant community development officer for Kgomodiatshaba through the affirmative action,” she said as she shared her journey in an interview.

She applauds government for coming up with the affirmative action plan because it has availed more opportunities for remote area people who are now being capacitated in whatever they want to do.

“Working as a social worker is a dream come true as I have always wanted to help other people. So, God placed me in a position I have always wanted.” 

She also credited her ‘never give up spirit’ that pushed her to where she is despite the challenges she has gone through as a child growing in a remote village with minimal developments. Mmualefhe oozes with confidence as she announces her intentions to pursue her degree in adult education through distance learning. 

 “The care which government gives to Batswana in remote areas is amazing and programmes geared at eradicating poverty come at an opportune time when they are most needed,” said Mmualefe.

The difficulty of establishing balance between work, family ties or having known her as a young girl is still evident among the residents. To some, they still see her as a young girl, thereby shying away from accessing her office for services that might be of help to them.

However, it appears this has not dampened her spirits as she points out that what mattered most was her service to the community as well as making a difference.

As a village social worker, Mmualefe says it is her responsibility to ensure that government’s efforts of assisting people who live far from services are realised. 

“It is sad to see people suffer while they can be assisted accordingly through different government programmes.” 

The young woman says her heart’s desire goes out to the youth in her village as they have the potential, but fear of the unknown and lack of confidence is a setback for their future prospects.

“I want to organise a youth camp where stakeholders will be brought in to guide and help them realise their potential,” she said. ENDS

Source : BOPA

Author : Booster Mogapi

Location : KGOMODIATSHABA

Event : Special Edition

Date : 19 May 2016