Choosing to live his life to the fullest despite living with a disability, is what inspired Tokelo Moeketsi to make a difference in his community while helping others who have similar experiences.
“Living with a disability doesn’t define me and it does not make me incapable of achieving my dreams. I realised that many people living with disabilities tend to think that they can’t do anything with their lives,” he expressed.
The ever-smiling Moeketsi, who lives with cerebral palsy (CP) founded the Ke Ya Rona Disability Centre in 2016 to reshape the mindsets of the community and those he helps by showing them that they can fulfil their dreams.
“It makes me happy to see more and more people in my community being able to help people with disabilities. Because we also teach them the different types of disabilities and how to care for people who live with these disabilities,” he mentioned.
The organisation that is located and operates from his community but is not limited to Phase 9 in Bloemfontein aims to look after the health and wealth of disabled people irrespective of their disability. In addition, the centre also seeks to encourage and facilitate the participation of the community, and organisation of persons living with disabilities in the planning and decision making processes.
Moeketsi emphasised that the main goal is to train and equip these individuals with the necessary skills to increase their chances of employment. “Our members learn different skills and sports activities. These projects help them with bettering their skills,” he added.
The 31-year-old, who also founded a radio station in his community, Tswelopele FM, mentioned that although accessibility may be a challenge, he hopes to make an impact in the lives of those he serves.
“I want to see every person achieve their goals and dreams. You may be disabled but you’re not incapable to achieve your goals. No matter how hard it may seem, just roll through any barrier,” he advised.
Moeketsi added that the centre is in dire need of assistance from the public to continue the cause. If you would like to find out how you can help him make a difference, send a Whatsapp message to 078-643-2118 or an email to tokelogeneraltrading@gmail.com to find out how.
“If you are disabled, it does not mean you can’t do anything,” Moeketsi concluded.
Gypseenia Lion
