Phemelo Mohlapamaswi

Participant

Faith Phemelo Mohlapamaswi is a storyteller from Brits Maboloka in the North West. Phemelo specializes in various storytelling art forms such as Photography, Drama, Music, Dance and Poetry. Since 2015, she has been an artist at Revolutions Art Productions Motswala, where she also teaches children from her community performing arts. In 2021, Phemelo participated in the Gender Violations and Violence Story Telling Project, which created a public voice and discussion around gender-based violence using media and photography practice in the North West Province.

Cell No:. +27 83 476 7095

Email address: faithphemelo45@gmail.com

Seeds of Hope

Seeds of hope has a profound impact on society, particularly in supporting orphans and vulnerable children in the North West. Despite facing unique challenges, LGBTQI community individuals – who become foster parents – offer love, care, and stability to children, providing them with a sense of belonging and security.

The foster parents play a vital role in providing a nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma or rejection. They offer a safe space for the children to express themselves, fostering emotional well-being and self-acceptance. By doing so, the parents help children develop resilience and confidence, enabling them to thrive in their personal and social lives.

Working with other organisations the foster parents provide vital resources for vulnerable children, including counselling, mentorship, and advocacy. These services help children navigate complex emotional and psychological issues, promoting healthy development and well-being. By providing love, care, and support, the foster parents help the children overcome adversity and thrive. As we recognize the importance of inclusive and supportive environments, we can work towards creating a brighter future for all children, regardless of our background or identity.

The Journey

Becoming a parent at a young age is often stigmatized, but for many teenage single parents, it’s a reality that requires immense resilience and determination. Their journey is marked by challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs. As they navigate the complexities of parenthood, they must also contend with societal expectations, financial struggles, and emotional turmoil.

Despite these obstacles, many teenage single parents find strength in their role. They develop a sense of purpose and responsibility, often prioritizing their child’s needs above their own. As they work to provide for their child, they discover inner reserves of courage and perseverance.

The journey of teenage single parents is not without its difficulties. They may face financial strain, social isolation, and emotional stress. However, with the right support systems in place, they overcome these challenges. Family, friends, and community programmes provide vital assistance – offering emotional support, financial aid, and educational resources.

As teenage single parents navigate their journey, they also experience personal growth. They develop essential life skills, such as problem-solving. They learn to prioritize, adapt, and thrive in hope and adversity. Moreover, they develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion, fostering strong bonds with their child and others.

Ultimately, the journey of teenage single parents is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and growth. Despite the challenges they face, these young parents demonstrate remarkable strength and determination. As society, it’s essential to recognize and support these individuals, providing them with the resources and understanding they need to thrive. By doing so, we can empower them to build a brighter future for themselves and their children.

Rising with the Sun

A young heart feels a new, soft beat

Her path now takes a different street.

Though worries never end, doubts come into existence

Still, strength shines through her hopeful eyes.

She endures, she grows, she rises, she stands tall

She gives her heart, and gives it all.

She steps ahead of the darkest storms

With courage, with strength and gentle force

With every dawn, ever wind, her heartwarming spirit shines bright.

She walks her in the light,

Rising with the Sun, fighting the darkness and coldness.