In the heart of Kraaipan, a village 70 kilometres from Mafikeng, a remarkable young woman named Matshidiso Bokgwathile makes waves with her transformative initiative.
With a burning passion for education, Matshidiso founded the OLife Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young boys in the community.
OLife Foundation focuses squarely on boys' education, recognizing that providing them equal and quality opportunities is crucial for their future success. Matshidiso firmly believes that educating and empowering boys can foster positive outcomes that ripple throughout society.
Matshidiso's unwavering dedication to children's welfare stems from her first-hand experiences as a volunteer and worker in primary schools within the Kraaipan community. During that time, she witnessed the pressing need for innovative solutions to address the education crisis plaguing young boys.
"As the chairperson of the OLife Foundation, I am wholeheartedly committed to prioritizing children and advancing boys' education," Matshidiso affirmed.
"Seeing what was once just a wild dream come to life fills my heart with immense joy. The fight for education is ongoing, and OLife Foundation aims to provide educational opportunities to young boys, helping them realize the lives of their dreams,” she added.
To achieve this mission, the OLife Foundation has developed a comprehensive plan. One of their key initiatives is to implement an After School Programme, specifically targeting young boys in a selected primary school during the final term of the academic year. The programme’s primary objective is to prepare these boys for their final examinations, setting them on the path to success.
The After School Programme aims to support struggling learners from each grade in Kraaipan Village.
Operating from Monday to Thursday, between 3pm to 5pm, the After School Programme will ensure that participants receive crucial academic assistance during their formative years. By providing a safe and supportive environment, the programme aims to equip these young boys with the tools they need to excel academically, allowing them to reach their full potential.
Matshidiso's vision extends far beyond academics. She believes boys must be given every opportunity to thrive, dream and be heard.
“OLife Foundation recognises that boys require love, support, empowerment, exposure, and attention. Moreover, the foundation is committed to creating a safe space for boys to grow, be nurtured and stay in school,” says Matshidiso.
Matshidiso Bokgwathile's journey, fueled by her unwavering commitment to education, inspires many people. With the OLife Foundation, she is transforming lives and ensuring a brighter future for the young boys of Kraaipan.
As Matshidiso herself says: "Boys must be given opportunities. Boys must be afforded the lives of their dreams. OLife Foundation is here to make that a reality."
