Twins double their efforts to make a difference

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They were born and raised in Dawn Park, and are now giving back to the young people.

Katlego argues that she is older than her brother, as she came into the world first, however, in their tradition the one who is born first is, in fact, the last born, as it is believed they were pushed out by the stronger twin, who could’ve come out first, but chose not to.

Katlego is a ground-breaker, which is a term given to a Lovelife leader.

She is in charge of the Lovelife branch situated at the Dawn Park Clinic, offering a youth-friendly clinic for teenagers and young people.

“No, we do not distribute condoms, we rather empower young people to live a healthy lifestyle,” she says.

Katlego says there is a misconception about the role that Lovelife plays, and it is always associated with sex and condoms.

“We cater to all aspects of a teenager’s well being, from self-love and to career guidance,” she explains.

“Through events such as sport activities and school camps we promote their abilities and talents, and we empower them to respect and love themselves as individuals,” she explains.

Growing up, Katlego says, she was very shy, and wasn’t a people’s person.

Due to financial constraints, she wasn’t able to continue her studies, and volunteered at Lovelife. She attended training and found that she could relate to what the organisation stood for.

“Lovelife gave me guidance and direction,” she says. ”

Now I am able to make a change in the life of everyone I come across.”

She advises young people to live beyond measures, to live the impossible, and not to limit themselves.

The twins were raised by their mother, who, they say, is very proud of them.

“’It puts a smile on her face to see that her twins are both out to change the world and make a difference,” says Kabelo.

Kabelo, who is chairperson of the Youth Desk, based at the Dawn Park Police Station, says they didn’t allow the setback of not having a father to limit them.

He was infuriated by the high rate of crime that was being committed by young people because of poverty, when he joined the organisation.

“I encourage young people to use time wisely, because God gives us an allowance of 24 hours in day to use to the best of our ability,” says Kabelo.

He serves the community of Sectors One (Windmill Park, Van Dyk Park), Two (Dawn Park, Klippoortjie, Groeneweide), Three (Villa Liza and Somalia Park) and Four (Marbleton).

On a weekly basis, he conducts school and public talks.

Kabelo also takes young people to visit inmates in prison, so that they can see the consequences of making bad decisions.

“We work with Lovelife, schools and businesses, and we encourage young people to join organisations, so they can stay off the streets and make better use of their time,” he says.

Kabelo and Katlego agree that parents should encourage their children to work in their communities on a voluntary basis.

Kabelo lives life by the motto “pressa, pusha, phanda” which translates to “press through situations, always move forward, and hustle”.

He aims to become an entrepreneur and has registered a plastic manufacturing company. He will also soon make his debut as a producer for an upcoming youth television show.

Katlego will study next year, towards becoming an occupational health and safety officer.