Name: Mokgubi Kgaphola

Province: Limpopo- Mphanama Smart Village

Write a short blurb (summary) about yourself. In no more than three sentences.

I am Mokgubi Kgaphola, commonly described as a moving library and a standing bookshelf because whenever my mouth opens, you’d realise that I’m a creator of conflict, a sculptor drama, and inventor of character. I am nothing extraordinary, simply your average everyday undiscovered humble world leader, activist and friend.

Why did you decide to be part of the ACTIVATE! Network?

Because Mr Koketso Marishane saw potential in me and presented me the vision and objectives of the program and I saw my space and role in it.

What did you enjoy the most about training?

The conducive environment created by the trainers.

How has training helped you or changed your perspective?

The training enabled me to see life from a different angle: from subject to pro-active citizen like Dr. Mamphele Ramphele.

Have you been inspired and been the inspiration in your community and those you interact with?

Yes. I get inspired daily by the continuous work of inspiration by Mr. Marishane and many like him who selflessly offer themselves to be of service to both our communities in SA and internationally. This inspiration pushes me to acknowledge, celebrate and continue with the positive narratives that Mr. Marishane and associates have started by continuously placing the positive stories of our nation and the people on sustainable platforms for global recognition.  

What do you think the role of the youth is in developing the country?

The role of youth in SA as a developing country is to find a healthy balance between working to live and living to work towards a healthy national ecosystem.

What is your field of interest?

Education for People and Community Development. Without education, I am nothing.

How are you driving change in your community/How would you like to drive change in your community?

I’m happy that I am already part of a sizeable network of global shapers that seeks to address the most pressing and daunting challenges in the world and my role is to use my resources to communicate the messages the world needs to hear.

Now that you have completed training, how do you plan to keep active in the network?

I’m constantly keeping abreast on developments by Activators within my space through active engagement with them virtually and otherwise thus there’s always the element of intimate connection.

What are your plans for this year?

Love myself more by surrounding myself with kindred and disciplined spirits like Mr. Marishane. My elevation is determined by the company I keep so the more I am in the surround of stars, the more my chances of becoming like them.

Is social media an effective way by which you can receive communication from us?

No. I don’t do social media. It disturbs my peace of mind.

Additional information you would like us to know?

Mphanama is rising and the future looks bright.