by Tshifhiwa Mudau

Thabo Langalebalela, a force in community upliftment,  Founder of Thaboera IT Solutions and Tshwane University of Technology alumnus, has just been recognised for his enormous impact on communities and young South Africans at the South African Police Service Zwelentlanga Fatman Mgcawu District Excellence Awards. Held at Desert Palace Casino in Upington, the TUT alumnus received the award for his commitment, come rain or shine, to empowering young people through mentorship, resources and opportunities.

Thabo described the award as much more than a personal accolade, it once again reminded him why he became involved in giving back to communities and helping to improve life for young people. Reminiscing on the legacy of his late mother, whose life of service continues to guide his mission, he said: “My mother taught me that blessings are meant to be shared. I am simply continuing what she started.”

Through his company, he mentors and employs young graduates, helping them gain practical tech experience while building confidence and skills for the future. Outside the workplace, he donates tablets, school equipment, and essential learning materials to children in under-resourced schools, ensuring that disadvantaged learners have a fairer chance at success. “The simplest form of help can often be the biggest game changer to someone else,” he explained. “It is about inspiring others to do the same.”

Thabo’s explained that Thaboera IT Solutions envisions a world transformed by technology, where innovation knows no bounds and possibilities are limitless. The commitment to this vision is at the core of everything they do, especially to make the most of technology to shape a brighter future. He added that his personal ambition and the company's vision are dedicated to empowering businesses of all sizes, from startups to enterprises, with cutting-edge IT solutions. He added that using technology will open doors and create opportunities for the next generation, therefore he plans to provide laptops to matriculants, giving them access to the digital tools they need to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world. “I have been where they are. I want them to get exposure, have resources and gain the confidence to reach their potential,” he said.

Having received the District Excellence Award has only strengthened his resolve to change lives for the better. “When someone recognises your efforts, even in a small way, it motivates you to do greater,” he reflected. “It is not about recognition. It is about knowing your work has impact and can inspire change.”

Thabo Langalebalela’s story shows that true leadership is demonstrated in many ways, from the titles and wealth one earns to the lives one touches and uplifts. Through constant generosity, mentorship, and vision, he continues to change one learner, one graduate and one community at a time.

Thabo Langalebalela, a force in community upliftment, Founder of Thaboera IT Solutions and Tshwane University of Technology alumnus , receiving a South African Police Service Zwelentlanga Fatman Mgcawu District Excellence Award

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by Gerrit Bester

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by Reatlegile Ratlagane

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By Phaphama Tshisikhawe

In a world where excuses often overshadow ambition, Captain Amukelani Ngoveni symbolises unyielding determination. The 17-year South African National Defence Force (SANDF) veteran who joined the military in 2007 and rose to the rank of Captain in the Technical Services, has taken on a challenge that would daunt most: enrolling as a full-time Clinical Engineering student at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment FEBE)

First published in the Daily Maverick on 4 Nov 2025

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According to scholars Sven Grimm et al, ‘science and policymaking should be an excellent match’. But in real-life situations, the relationship is uneasy. Were the relationship between Science and Policy not so important to our nation, we might have been tempted to abandon the search for a more conducive interface between the two.

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