Municipal Oversight & Accountability Programme: Kimberley

Soloshna Keamogetse Lepedi

My name is Soloshna Lepedi. I am a 22-year-old student from Rustenburg, currently pursuing a B.Com. in Accounting at Sol Plaatje University. I am passionate about giving back to my community and actively volunteer in educational initiatives aimed at empowering the youth of Rustenburg. I strive to provide young people with better opportunities for formal education, believing that education is key to unlocking potential. I have a strong interest in financial literacy because I understand its pivotal role in shaping the economy. I am dedicated to promoting financial awareness, which is as essential for creating new opportunities and building a brighter future for myself and her community.

Kamogelo Ray Mampies

I am currently a passionate mathematics assistant who tries to erase the stigma that “mathematics is difficult” at Progress Primary school. I’m currently employed by the Northern Cape Department of Education. I hold a higher certificate in economic and management sciences and I am pursuing a Bachelor of Accounting Sciences with the University of South Africa. I aspire to be a chartered accountant.

Thabo Malekane

As a recent LLB graduate, I bring a comprehensive understanding of legal principles and a strong foundation in the intricacies of the law. Throughout my academic journey, I have honed my analytical and critical thinking skills, allowing me to approach legal issues with a discerning and meticulous mindset. My coursework has equipped me with a solid grasp of various legal domains, including contract law, criminal law, and constitutional law, providing me with a well-rounded legal education. In addition to my academic achievements, I have actively sought practical experiences to complement my theoretical knowledge. Through internships and extracurricular activities, I have had the opportunity to apply legal concepts in real-world scenarios, enhancing my ability to navigate complex legal challenges. With a passion for justice and a commitment to upholding the rule of law, I am eager to embark on a legal career where I can contribute my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in the legal field. My LLB education has not only equipped me with the requisite legal expertise but has also instilled in me a sense of responsibility and dedication to the pursuit of justice. I am an ambitious, self-motivated, excellent interpersonal, communication skills and hard-working individual who is always eager to lend a helping hand and make sure that the business runs efficiently, professionally and safely.

Eric Sibiya

Eric Sibiya is a dedicated and passionate student, currently serving as the Internal Communications Officer of KMS, a student organisation at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley. At the age of 19, Eric has already demonstrated remarkable leadership and commitment to the university community. In addition to his role in KMS, Eric was the chairperson of Tauana hall of residence (house committee), in which role he effectively managed and represented the interests of the hall’s residents. His leadership skills and ability to foster a sense of community have been instrumental in enhancing the student experience at Sol Plaatje University. Furthermore, Eric is an active member of the Democratic Alliance’s Student Organisation (DASO), holding an executive position. In this role, he advocates for student rights and works toward improving the educational environment and policies affecting his peers. Eric’s dedication to transparency and accountability is evident in his active participation in various student organisations and committees. He is committed to fostering a culture of integrity and ethical leadership within the university. His involvement in these roles has provided him with valuable insights into the challenges faced by students and the importance of good governance in addressing these issues. Balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular commitments, Eric consistently strives to make a positive impact on his community. His work exemplifies the principles of good citizenship and active participation, which are crucial in combating corruption and maladministration at all levels of government. As a young leader, Eric is driven by a vision of a just and equitable society. He believes in the power of collective action and the responsibility of every citizen to hold public officials accountable. His goal is to inspire others to join the fight against corruption and to ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of all, particularly the most vulnerable.

Thuto Llewelyn Moitsemang

Thuto Moitsemang was born and raised in Kimberley, where he cultivated a passion for finance and community service from a young age. As a dedicated professional, Thuto has built a foundation in financial expertise, particularly in supply chain management, through his work with the Northern Cape Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture. In his current role as risk and ethics officer, Thuto demonstrates a commitment to ethical standards and compliance with critical legislation, including the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Treasury regulations. His problem-solving skills and ability to approach complex issues from various perspectives make him an invaluable asset in navigating ethics and compliance challenges in government and community-focused initiatives. Thuto began his career as a data capturer at Polmed Medical Scheme, where he honed his skills in document management and operational efficiency. He then progressed to a demand management internship in the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, playing a key role in effective acquisition and bid administration functions. Currently, as a risk and ethics assistant, Thuto engages in risk assessment reviews, developing management controls, and preparing comprehensive reports for senior management. His work involves identifying and mitigating risks across various projects and operations. Thuto holds an Advanced Diploma in Economics from Nelson Mandela University. He also earned a National Diploma in Economics from the same institution, actively participating in societies that promote diversity and teamwork. Thuto’s leadership skills were recognized early on when he was elected president of the Rotary Interact Club at Northern Cape High School, fostering youth development through service and leadership.

Mathinya Bonolo Motshabi

I am Mathinya Bonolo Motshabi, a first – year general Bachelor of Arts student at Sol Plaatje University, majoring in Setswana, English, and History. Driven by a passion for language and culture, I am dedicated to deepening my understanding of the rich heritage of both Setswana and English while exploring the historical context that shape societies today. My academic journey is fuelled by a strong ambition to succeed, a hardworking mindset, and a determination to make a positive impact in the fields I am studying. Throughout my life I have maintained a focus on excellence, constantly seeking to improve myself both academically and personally. I believe that education is a powerful tool for change hence my attendance. I am committed to using knowledge to contribute meaningfully to my community and beyond. With my deep respect for history, I aim to help preserve cultural legacies while fostering understanding across different groups through language. As I progress through my studies at Sol Plaatje University, I look forward to embracing every opportunity for growth and development, all while remaining steadfast in my goal to achieve academic success and make a difference in the world.

Lindy Jooste

I am Lindy Jooste, originally from Calvinia, but currently based in Kimberley. I am 20 years old (the definition of “young and restless”). I am a first-year student studying through Unisa. As an aspiring lawyer, I see every opportunity to enhance my growth by learning how to work with our people and understanding their needs. I have a passion for music and see it as a way of bringing people together. During my primary and high school years I took part in various festivals held by our school (one of them was the eisteddfod promoting and showcasing arts, one of the best forms of expression). I would love to study music in the future. With a positive attitude you can tackle whatever life throws at you. Coming from a small community and witnessing the need for housing, I was touched, for a place of shelter is important in every child’s and family’s life, a safe place and space for our people. I believe you should leave a bit of kindness wherever you go even if it is just by nodding your head or giving someone a warm and welcoming smile.

Tsholofelo Saziwe Mans

I am a 28 year-old marketing management student with 8 years’ experience as an ECD educator, and eighteen months’ experience as a voluntary educator under the Northern Cape Department of Basic Education’s KHARA GUDE, an adult basic education programme aimed to improving the literacy of residents aged 18 and older. I am from Hartswater in the Northern Cape. I am passionate about children’s and women’s rights, nurturing young minds, and advocating for vulnerable people. Even though I am involved in other fields, I have always loved to volunteer with local organisations, supporting initiatives that aim to combat gender-based violence, promote girls’ education, and provide resources to marginalised families. Through community outreach, we raise awareness about child protection policies, quality education, women empowerment, and social justice. This advocacy work has positively impacted many lives, inspiring others to join the movement. Through these experiences, I have learnt that our government cannot do this alone. They need those that can be brave enough to do what needs to be done to change what seems to be impossible.

Ontlametse Tsheko

My name is Ontlametse Tsheko. I am 26 years old, and I live in Kimberley. I am a bubbly person, an extrovert. I am not short but i am also not tall. I like learning new information and meeting new people. I am goal-driven and self-motivated, and I believe in having a purpose. I have acquired a Diploma in Financial Accounting as I like working with numbers. I am currently working as an intern at the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature.

Hulisani Phaswana

I am from Venda in rural Limpopo. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Town and Regional Planning at the University of Pretoria. I am a professional town planner registered with SACPLAN. In addition, I have certifications in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and Environmental Management Systems. I am dedicated to continuous learning and growth. I am currently the senior officer for town planning and human settlements at Dikgatlong Local Municipality, in which role I am responsible for the management of the town planning, building inspection, and housing sub-directorates within the technical services department. I have more than seven years’ working experience in the private sector, as well as in local- and provincial government; during this time I gained valuable practical experience in statutory town planning, land use planning, transport planning, project management, spatial planning, integrated development planning, infrastructure development, strategic planning, and human settlement development. I am thrilled about taking on new challenges and dedicated to upholding the values of service, empathy, and excellence. My journey reflects not only my personal achievements but also my commitment to building a future where all South Africans can thrive in well-planned, resilient communities.