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A 19-year-old social media sensation and comedian, Nditsheni Ramakgolo is here to ensure your day is full of fun. Born in Botlokwa village, Limpopo province in South Africa, the funny comedian went to Fedile High School and just completed his Matric last year. “This is a wonderful opportunity for me to tell my fans about myself. I started comedy in 2018 when I was doing grade 7. I actually started with videos but realised that lot of comedians in Limpopo Province are more into videos and it was not working for me. I became creative and thought of something unique so I started making comedy by using only pictures in 2024, suddenly people fell in love with my content. Nobody inspired me to tell the truth, I think I was born for this”, he said. Rams Comedy , as popularly known on social media, does not write nor prepare any script for his content. “I just shoot many pictures then choose the funny ones because my content does not require me to shoot and reshoot. I do not have many challenges, I just think of reality and make fun out of it”, he added. Like many careers, one has to face negativity from people but not for Rams Comedy. He gets lot of support from his fans who are mostly adults and they encourage him to take it easy when coming to negative comments. He rather focus on the next project than dwell with jealous people. “I am so lucky to have wonderful community on my side; they are always there for a support. People are excited when they see me on the streets, they love my content and I appreciate it. My advice to all people who want to make it in life is to not give up, it is not easy, just push content you will reach there” , he concluded. People can follow his work on social media : Facebook - @Rams Comedy

Nothing is depressing than watching fellow graduates sitting at the local spaza shops wasting their lives. Gift Dibakoane (24) is a founder and managing director of Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers from Praktiseer, outside of Burgersfort, Limpopo Province in South Africa. This Business Studies graduate could not waste his time typing and sending CV’s looking for a job but applied his skills in Retail Fundamentals, Products and Services, Merchandising and Buying, Sales and Marketing, Customer Service and Experience to start a business. “I have chosen to invest my 20 months R350 Budget from the South Africa Social Security Agency (SASSA) government grant in my business and create my own employment opportunities. I have faced numerous challenges, but I have persevered and grown my business into a successful enterprise”, he said. Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers offers cleaning services to homes, schools and offices and technology products such as Electronic Smart desk, a school desk fitted with thermal sensor to detect any metal weapons such as knives and guns brought by learners at schools. A mobile Solar Cooler Bag fitted with solar panel, charging electronic smart phones and music. It also offer a range of cleaning products, such as dishwasher liquid, Tile/Floor Stripper,  Car Shampoo, Toilet papers and supply branded archar to homes, restaurants and shops. “My company has grown to employ 8 young people and it helps me grow mentally as an entrepreneur. I remain committed to motivate young people to set up their goals and pursue entrepreneurship. I want to raise awareness about the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs. My goal is to inspire young people to take control of their own lives and create their own opportunities,” he concluded. In June 2025, youth month, Kgopotso Projects and Suppliers be donating free cleaning services to disability schools around Burgersfort and outside.

In the heart of eMgudule, Reservoir Hills, in Durban at KwaZulu-Natal province, a powerful community initiative is changing the lives of children. Chris, the owner of Siripati Copy Shop, raised his hand to use his time and resources to teach local kids computer skills—giving them knowledge that can open doors in the future. Working hand in hand with Mthobisi Zwane, a dedicated young man who teach learners and helps them with homework. Mthobisi brings more than just academic support—he brings life lessons. When asking what inspired him, Mthobisi said, “I was inspired by myself actually, my personal experience growing up. I didn’t have these opportunities... If I did, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today. But I’m grateful that I’m here with the people who need me, which also inspires me to wake up and do what I do again and again and again—tirelessly.” The initiative goes beyond books and computers. I had the chance to work with Chris, Mthobisi, and Samantha to guide kids in writing and performing poetry. One of the poems, "Breaking the Silence: The Cry of Brotherhood," written by Vathiswa Dlamini, was performed with passion by the children. Samantha played a big role in helping the kids prepare for the poem, showing her dedication to their growth. In her spare time, she also supported Mthobisi with tutoring, always lending a hand where it was needed most. Chris is more than a businessman but the heart of the community. He’s helping children stay off the streets, giving them purpose, and guiding them with love. Many now call him the community’s angel, and rightfully so. This small corner of Reservoir Hills is proof that change begins with just a few people who care—and that care can grow into a movement that lights up young minds with hope.

A true inspiring story about multitalented artist named Judgement Fire. Moshala Philemon Shadung was born in a place called Kalkspruit, Ga Magongwa outside Polokwane in South Africa. His family moved to Ga Thoka village around Mankweng in 2000 where he attended school at Dikolobe Primary school and Mountain View Secondary School. Chatting with him about the love for music, Judgement said: “In 2004, I became a member of a Gospel Choir named “ Hlokwa la Tsela Gospel Group ”, and then went on to sing Wedding songs in 2007. I sat down and told myself that the sky is the limit myself, in 2008 I joined RNB, Reggae and house music till I found my favourite platform which is PEDI Rap. I am also a producer” Working with superstars such as Dacker (Hip Hop artist), Nico The Pro, M Dey, SO Beat, Kay Christy and others has never made him proud and loose it. Judgement Fire is proud hustler who do almost any job to put food on the table, you may find him selling Mopani worms close University of Limpopo, bricklaying, carpentry work, painting, farming and cleaning yards. “One cannot rely on music because it’s hard out there. Artists are facing lot of things, lack of gigs, lack of exposure or airplay. I am a man also need to provide and survive”, he added.  He released hit songs such as “Naledi”, “Basadi”, “Ke nyaka wena” under Verbal Silence Entertainment and still cooking for new EP. He is proud to share stage with Mapara a Jazz, Richie le C Boy Teanet, Shandesh, legendary Bricks MaBrigado and Saxophone wa Kasi. Judgment Fire can be found: 072 314 2879 |Facebook: Judement Fire SA |Youtube: Judgement Fire |Instagram : Judgement Fire SA | Tik Tok: King of Vocal | Email Address: moshalajudgenent@gmail.com

Mfiki Sokhela is a friendly person with a good heart, and his real-life story inspires many. Hailing from the remote village of Msinga, employment opportunities were, and continue to be, extraordinarily limited. The family dynamics added to the weight of his circumstances; he was one of eight children raised by his widowed mother. Their sole means of survival involved the painstaking craft of making clay pots—traditional vessels used to hold beer. They would often sell these pots filled with beer to make ends meet. The harsh reality they faced meant there was no room in their budget for what many would consider necessities, let alone the luxuries of education, which for them seemed like a distant dream back then. He could not read or write. Mfiki was only 17 years old when, out of desperation, he asked the KwaSizabantu Mission in his area for piece jobs. He started caring for the cattle as a herd boy on the Mission’s farm, and after a few years, he began working in the greenhouses with the peppers. From there, he was promoted to management because of his work ethic, and he now works in avocado orchards. “This is my spot,” he told me, “June is harvesting time, and that is when I am happiest.” Mfiki learned how to read and write at the Mission. He works at Emseni Farming, which empowers local farmers through dynamic farmer-to-farmer learning, where knowledge flows freely and experiences are shared. The program actively engages with the community by helping them maximise the potential of their land and providing them with seedlings to nurture their crops. In addition to this support, Emseni hosts hands-on practical demonstrations on sustainable agricultural practices, allowing participants to learn directly in the fields. They offer free workshops with pragmatic insights that ignite passion and confidence in budding farmers. A key partner in their mission is the Maphumulo Tropical Cooperation, with whom they have established a memorandum of understanding to deliver training and mentorship programs. Mfiki admires Dietmar Joosten, the farm manager responsible for all the farming projects on the Mission’s premises. This is a significant responsibility, as Emseni grows export-quality avocados. Mfiki mentioned that he has learned everything he knows about farming from Dietmar, who sets an example for all by the way he treats his workers. “He treats his workers with respect,” he said. “He teaches us with patience and allows us to grow in our roles. He creates a positive environment for all the workers and colleagues. When one’s work and contribution are valued, it motivates us to improve and maintain good work.” Not only did Mfiki find his spot among the avocadoes and a purpose at KwaSizabantu, but also his soulmate! He is happily married, and the couple was blessed with two children. The entire family stays at the mission station, which they call home. (Read the full story of Mfiki’s life journey in our sisters’ publication, Devoted Issue 37, on the website: https://www.devotedmag.co.za/

Eco-farming weaves together cutting-edge science and innovative practices while profoundly respecting the natural world and its rich biodiversity. This harmonious approach results in vibrant farming methods that produce nutritious food and promote our ecosystems' health. Emseni Farming, in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, is at the forefront of this movement. Revered as a pioneer in sustainable and eco-conscious agriculture, Emseni leads various agricultural projects designed to safeguard the soil, preserve precious water resources, and combat climate change. With every initiative, they create a flourishing environment that nurtures the land and the communities it sustains. In line with its sustainability objectives, Emseni has diversified its operations over the years. Its agricultural activities include cultivating avocados and various fruits, a dairy farm, composting, and the hydroponic production of lettuce and peppers. They utilise peaceful and environmentally friendly methods in their farming practices. Beehives placed among the avocado orchards help with pollination and produce honey. The small plants in the greenhouses are cultivated in coco peat grow bags placed on special gutters that keep them off the ground. The farm uses greenhouse waste, such as old coir bags, pruning waste, and removed plants, to create compost. This compost is returned to the agricultural projects, benefiting the avocado orchards and improving the soil structure. Emseni has developed a sustainable farm to ensure food security that positively impacts the local remote community and future generations. The farm promotes job creation and skills development across various areas, from plant germination to packaging. The farm operates as a vital community-centered initiative and is the largest employer in its surrounding region. The individuals working here earn a fair wage, allowing them to provide for their families with pride and security. Given the scarcity of job opportunities in the locality, the numerous projects spearheaded by Emseni serve as a lighthouse of hope and prosperity for the community. Locals play an active role in the farm's continuous development and its diverse initiatives. Specifically, the program offers comprehensive training sessions for local farmers and provides them with high-quality seedlings to enhance their agricultural practices. Through years of collaboration, Emseni farmers and community members have forged strong partnerships to foster upliftment and significantly improve the quality of life for everyone involved. The various farming projects cultivated at Emseni generate multiple income streams, resulting in tangible benefits that directly benefit the community. Additionally, Emseni hosts multiple outreach events encouraging local participation, ensuring that the benefits extend to as many community members as possible. These initiatives promote the farm's products and reinforce community bonds and collective progress. Be on the lookout for our next article which will highlight Emseni’s bee faming practices. (Watch the following YouTube videos on Emseni Farming: New Emseni Farming Greenhouses; Emseni Farming Avocado project; Emseni, place of grace (drone footage).  An electronic version of the thesis, Erlo Hartwig Stegen: A Missiological evaluation of his life, ministry and teachings,  is available on  the following website: https://repsitor.nwu.ac.za/handle/10394/37398 and you can also visit the catalogues on: https://sierra.nwu.ac.za/record=b2536893-S4 )

Sama Sambit is a noteworthy voice in the world of podcasts. He stands out for his unique name and insightful contributions as the THEE Sama Sambit podcast host.  At just 19 years old, Sama is impressively informed and knowledgeable. He has earned a reputation for expressing the truths many people are too afraid to voice. He is an unfiltered, unapologetic, and raw force in digital media.    This young man is a fresh breeze in a world where many are allergic to the truth. At age 12, he ventured into YouTube by launching a modest gaming channel titled  The Dude.  Although the channel attracted only three subscribers, it constituted a significant foundational experience. He gained insight into the platform’s dynamics and developed a thorough understanding of content creation before taking a five-year hiatus. He launched the phenomenon known as THEE Sama Sambit, and it began to take shape soon after. Sama undeniably challenges societal norms. He exposes uncomfortable truths and cuts through the noise of political correctness. With brutal honesty, sharp humour, and a fearless approach to controversy, he quickly gained a following. Whether people like his views, he has amassed over 15,500 subscribers and published over 251 videos. His content is not just polarising; it serves as a wake-up call to everyone, including politicians. From calling out hypocrisy in modern culture to questioning the status quo, he positions himself as a voice of rebellion in an era of heightened sensitivity. He is deeply passionate about being the voice of the voiceless youth because he understands what it’s like to feel unheard, ignored, and trapped in a system that doesn’t care. Growing up, he witnessed firsthand how young people in South Africa are often dismissed and left to struggle with broken institutions, corrupt leadership, and a society that demands conformity while offering little support.   He witnessed how many young people were forced into silence due to fear, societal pressure, or simply because no one was willing to listen. Schools don’t teach them to think critically; the government exploits them; the media manipulates them. And in a world where most influencers are either puppets or liars, Sama knew there needed to be someone who told the truth—raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic. That’s why his platform isn’t just a YouTube channel—it’s a movement. He speaks because no one else will. He exposes the lies because too many people are too afraid to. And he fights because the youth deserve better.   (Read the full story in our sister publication, Devoted online:  https://www.devotedmag.co.za/  or follow the eBook link:  https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/uaik/ ) . Follow the Facebook DevinePublishers/Devoted for more inspiring stories .

Khobby Opare (28) was born and raised in Ghana, Accra and moved to South Africa in 2018 to seek greener pastures. He is currently working as a hairstylist and enjoy playing as a soccer goalkeeper for a local team named Bluebird FC. “I was raised in a poor family in a village of Ghana, life in my home country was not easy, and I needed to be better by moving out to South Africa. I am a hard worker and ensure I send money back home for my family to survive”, he said. Working as a hairstylist can be a nuisance when dealing with different clients but not for Khobby. “I am very lucky to get clients who really love my job. People spoke so many rumours about South Africa being xenophobic and I was scared. I made couple of friends who made me to settle down and find it easy to work with my clients”, he added. One could not believe his talent on the field. He is determined and focused more as a goal keeper but do not want to wait to be signed while starving. Playing football is part of him of staying healthy and avoid lot of things such as depression. “I’ve been good on the field at an early age, got the position of being a goal keeper and won several trophies with my team. My ambition is to be a personal trainer in the future. I want to educate people about taking care of their health cause your health is your wealth” concluded Khobby.

Ingrid Engelbrecht is a compassionate farmer dedicated to nurturing a herd of cows on a dairy farm in Mooirivier in KwaZulu-Natal. She is married to Danny, and the couple has two children who help with the farming activities. Her husband is a farmer, but due to health issues, Ingrid had to take over many of his farm responsibilities. She is a trained teacher, and she loves teaching. But she also loves what she is doing now: taking care of cows.   Such dedication Ingrid displays toward taking care of the cows they are responsible for is hard to find.  She admits that dairy farming is hard work. “But I know the Lord wants me here,” she said, “and that makes it so fulfilling. It's not a job for me; it's a calling. There are now about 900 cows on the farm, including calves and heifers. Approximately 450 of these are milk cows. Most of these are Holsteins (black and white), but they have a small percentage of Jersey cows and cross-breeds. They even started planting a few fruit trees. Ingrid says, “The team milk twice a day, but if you can find the time, you can milk a cow three times. Our daily production varies from 9,000 to 12,000 litres, depending on the season. There is not a day when we don't have milk, so we are busy every day of the week. Our truck collects the milk and takes it to the KwaSizabantu Mission in Kranskop. Among other things, we make yoghurt and maas (a fermented milk product) from it.”  Our milkers are all ladies because they are much gentler with the cows. Ingrid says passionately, “Each cow has its unique personality.” There is one old Jersey cow my son loves very much. She is quite spunky! She has only one horn and enjoys having her head scratched. If you visit the herd mid-morning, chances are you will find her two-thirds of the way into the camp, lying down and chewing the cud, usually with her eyes closed. “Losing an animal feels very personal. I once made the mistake of bringing in some young heifers to a camp that had tulip, which is very dangerous for cows. We ended up losing a heifer that I had grown quite attached to. This was a harrowing lesson for me. Now, we scan fresh camps for tulip, especially if we put young, inexperienced animals there”. “I make many mistakes, but I also learn from them.  One aspect that stands out for me is that we farm with grace. So, when I speak to a worker, I reflect on whether I approached the conversation in a graceful manner. When I undertake a task, I ask myself if I executed it gracefully. We do our best by His grace, and then God can bless our efforts. “The best part of my workday is walking between the cows as they graze or lie down. Nothing is better for me than seeing them chewing the cud, hearing their crunching and heavy breathing, and knowing they are happy and content. “I cherish this path deeply, as it feels like a divine calling rather than just a mere job. I sense the Lord’s guiding hand in my life, filling my heart with joy at precisely being where I am meant to be”. (Read the full story in our sister publication, Devoted online:  https://www.devotedmag.co.za/ or follow the eBook link:   https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/uaik/

Linda Nghatsane is a health professional.  She was born into a farming family in a rural village near Tzaneen, Limpopo, where she still lives. She combined the two passions by utilising her knowledge and expertise in farming to help her community start vegetable gardens, even on a small scale. In her work, countless mothers have come to see her over the years about health problems with their children. “Most of those children are malnourished. The parents cannot afford to feed their children a balanced diet. Food schemes, grants and ‘handouts’ do not work because the recipients become dependent on them and never learn to be self-sufficient. I realised that to address the enormous challenge of malnutrition in our poor communities, I must find a lasting solution,” Linda said. “I needed to find a long-term solution to the problem. It is not good enough to address the symptoms. A solution must be found for the multifaceted problem in these communities. The people are poor, work is scarce, and the government is not making a lasting difference. Grants and handouts are not the answer – they must learn to be self-sufficient. That’s how I started the vegetable garden project, but first, I must tell you where my inspiration comes from.” Linda got married in 1980, and she was advised to spend her honeymoon at the KwaSizabantu Mission in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal. She shared, “It was there, under the guidance of the late Reverend Erlo Stegen, that I learned about sustainable agriculture and how we can become self-sufficient by starting vegetable gardens in our places. He was an inspiring man, and over the years, I have regularly spent time at KwaSizabantu to learn more from him because I immediately realised that he had the solution to the problems my people were struggling with.” Linda began with a poultry farm and continues to incorporate poultry into the sustainable, fresh produce farming practices she now manages. She is also a multi-award winner in agriculture, recognised for her work in climate-smart agriculture. Linda worked with World Relief in a program called Vurhonga Child Survival. Now, she is paying it forward by helping Cedar International Academy NPC in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, which is situated on the KwaSizabantu Mission. She said,  “Baba Stegen was and remains my role model and inspiration. He had a holistic approach to uplifting and developing communities. He didn’t just focus on their spiritual health; he also worked hard to care for their emotional and physical well-being. He was a preacher by profession but a farmer at heart. He taught churchgoers and those seeking help at his ministry how to care for themselves by cultivating sustainable vegetable gardens. I followed his footsteps”.   (Read the full story in our sister publication, Devoted online:  https://www.devotedmag.co.za/  or follow the eBook link:   https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/uaik/ )

Saturday, 22 March, marked another significant milestone for Cedar International Academy in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, as it celebrated its very first graduation as a private higher education institution founded on the Word of God.  The graduandi for the BEd, Foundation Phase Teaching, were Jennifer Vumandjane BAZIMA, Sinakekelwe Ruth BIYELA and  Emihle MNGUNI. The guest speaker for the evening was Professor OEHM Nxumalo.   Dr Nxumalo encouraged the graduates to serve as examples to the world and to be instruments in God's hands. Mr Michael Ngubane from the KwaSizabantu Mission provided clear guidance from the Word of God, drawing a powerful parallel between the compassion of the Good Samaritan and the responsibility of the new graduates to care for others. He emphasised that teachers have a unique and vital role in nurturing the hearts of every child and individual they encounter on their educational journey. At Cedar, the vision is to equip students to become responsible and faithful members of their communities, preparing them to make a meaningful impact where they are located. The Academy strives to develop leadership qualities and cultivate educators who are committed to the vital responsibility of nurturing and guiding future generations. Therefore, its focus extends beyond academic excellence. The Academy places equal importance on their spiritual well-being. Cedar seeks to equip graduates to be effective servants of Jesus Christ. Cedar is part of the KwaSizabantu Mission. Alongside the learning programmes, students can participate in various events. Whether it be at an outreach, a function, or simply lending a hand when needed, Cedar students are exposed to a life of godly service to others. There is a tremendous onslaught on young people currently growing up in our country. Unfortunately, many of today’s teachers are not adequately equipped to address the complex issues present in schools. Topics such as drug abuse, satanism, teenage pregnancies, pornography, gangsterism, and others, call for teachers who are willing and prepared to make a lasting difference. Christian education has a significant impact on society. At Cedar, all disciplines are examined from the perspective of three foundational biblical truths. Firstly, God created everything. All things, therefore, reflect the creative design and order of God Himself. Secondly, sin has had a profound impact on the entire world. Thirdly, deliverance from sin is made possible through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. These three principles define the unifying framework of the Academy and form the basis for the Christian worldview taught and modelled in the teaching and learning program. (For more information about Cedar, please visit the website: www.cedar.ac.za )

Access to clean water remains a formidable challenge for numerous communities across South Africa, where the struggles of ongoing water shortages and crumbling municipal supply systems weigh heavily on daily life. In the face of this crisis, aQuellé stands resolute in bringing hope and sustenance, tirelessly delivering fresh, pure drinking water to those who need it most. With each drop, they not only quench the thirst of communities but also nourish the spirit of resilience, fostering a profound sense of connection and support in times of adversity. Most recently, aQuellé brought much-needed water to Kwandengezi, near Durban, to ensure families can access safe drinking water. This forms part of the brand’s ongoing efforts, which have also seen communities in Umlazi, Tongaat, Greytown, Msunduzi, Phoenix, and KwaDukuza receive water aid in times of crisis. Beyond emergency relief, aQuellé initiated a project to provide long-term solutions. The brand donated 25 water tanks to 25 communities in need. Each tank holds 5,000 litres of water, offering a sustainable source of clean water for schools and community members. The first of these tanks was installed at Aldinville Primary School in KwaDukuza, ensuring that learners never miss school due to water shortages. Michael Ngubane, director of aQuellé, highlighted the urgency of water security: “Access to safe and clean drinking water is a challenge for many communities. In addition, frequent floods in recent years have caused considerable damage to municipal water supply systems, and water has become scarce. That is why aQuellé has come here to help.” With National Water Week raising awareness about the importance of water conservation and World Water Day (22 March) reinforcing the need to protect water resources, aQuellé’s efforts stand as a beacon of hope.  For those receiving this water, the impact is immediate. As one community member expressed, “aQuellé has helped us very much. We are now able to drink healthy, clean water.” Water is life; with every bottle delivered and every tank installed, aQuellé continues to make a meaningful difference—one drop at a time. (Read our sister publication, Devoted, to find out more about how  aQuellé reaches out to communities and it’s clean-up campaigns: https://www.devotedmag.co.za/