Thabang Makgakwe’s 67-Minute Mission for a Greener South Africa

In the rural heart of Dennilton, Limpopo, Thabang Makgakwe, known as WamoAfrika, is igniting change through creativity and innovation. Guided by the principle of Motho ke motho ka batho we are because of each other this filmmaker, visual artist, and climate activist is turning personal hardship into a vision for a brighter future. A proud 2019 Activator, Bevisioneers Fellow, and UN Task Force representative for South Africa, Thabang is dedicating his 67 minutes on Nelson Mandela Day to Energy Trade SA, a groundbreaking project to tackle the nation’s energy crisis. His mission: to bring affordable, sustainable energy to communities, starting in Limpopo.

A Spark for Change

Thabang’s journey began in a fatherless home, where his mother and grandmother instilled resilience, ubuntu, and the power of creativity. “Growing up wasn’t easy, but art gave me a voice,” he reflects. As the founder of Peu Creatives, Thabang uses filmmaking and activism to address pressing issues like climate change and inequality. His work as a Greenpeace Africa Precariat and Global Citizen Alumni underscores his commitment to building the future young South Africans deserve. Joining ACTIVATE! in 2019 was transformative, sharpening his leadership and teaching him that change starts with people. “ACTIVATE! showed me we’re not alone we have a network and a responsibility to lead,” he says.

The 67-Minute Initiative

For Nelson Mandela Day, Thabang is promoting Energy Trade SA, a project recognized as a Top 50 finalist at the Green Youth Indaba in Durban. This innovative initiative aims to make electricity affordable, create jobs, and end load shedding while fostering a greener, more sustainable South Africa. During his 67 minutes, Thabang will share this vision with his community, laying the groundwork to roll it out province-wide and eventually nationwide. “This is about dignity and hope,” he says, honoring Madiba’s legacy of service and solutions for the people. Stay in the look out for more updates about Energy Trade SA

Inspired by Struggle

Thabang’s drive stems from personal experience. “I’ve seen my family choose between food and electricity, relying on firewood to cook,” he shares. “This is the story of millions of South Africans.” Energy Trade SA is his response a solution to restore dignity and unity, values central to Mandela’s vision. By addressing the energy crisis, Thabang hopes to empower families with access to basic needs: lights, cooking, and warmth.

Impact and Vision

Thabang envisions Energy Trade SA transforming lives in Limpopo by making energy accessible and creating jobs. “I want families to have lights without suffering,” he says. By inspiring young innovators in rural areas, he’s planting seeds for a sustainable future. His initiative also tackles broader issues like education, safety, and health, which are deeply affected by South Africa’s energy crisis. “We can’t keep relying on coal,” Thabang asserts. “We need green, affordable energy for all.”

Overcoming Challenges

Funding and support remain significant hurdles, but Thabang draws strength from Mandela’s 27 years of unwavering hope. “Nothing worthwhile comes easy,” he says. Through entering competitions, building networks, and leveraging his filmmaking platforms, Thabang is determined to push Energy Trade SA forward. His resilience mirrors Madiba’s, proving that determination can open doors.

ACTIVATE!’s Influence

ACTIVATE! Has been a cornerstone of Thabang’s leadership journey. “It taught me that change starts with people,” he says. The network’s support and spirit of service inspire him to lead with heart, ensuring Energy Trade SA prioritizes communities. From workshops to connections with fellow changemakers, ACTIVATE! Has fueled his belief in solutions for South Africa.

A Call to Action

On Nelson Mandela Day, Thabang Makgakwe is powering a brighter, greener South Africa. His 67-minute mission to promote Energy Trade SA is a testament to the power of youth-led innovation. Join him and ACTIVATE! Change Drivers in dedicating your 67 minutes to build the future Madiba dreamed of. As Thabang reminds us, “We are because of each other” together, we can light the way.

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About the Author:

Sandile Mlangeni is a 2019 GP-based Activator, he is passionate about youth activism. Sandile regards it as important to contribute his views and experiences to recognised entities seeking to develop communities. He started his journey as an activist in 2012 when he started collaborating with community-based organisations in his hometown in Tsakane and Kwa-Thema Ekurhuleni.