Meet Nolia Moshodi, a Changemaker from Hoopstad
My name is Nolia Moshodi, and I am a mother and a passionate advocate for women’s health and well-being, especially for young African, Black, and Brown women. My journey into raising awareness and advocating for issues affecting women is deeply personal and profoundly shaped by my own experiences with cancer.
I carry the genes for potential generational cancer from both my parents. My mother and my grandfather both lost their battles with cancer, and their losses left me grappling with the fear of what my future might hold.
When my daughter was born five years ago, I was advised to get a mammogram. But life quickly became overwhelming, and I had to put off the appointment. I wasn’t ready to face the reality of my family’s cancer history. I felt like I was robbed of a chance to prepare for a future that seemed uncertain and very frightening.
This experience has taught me just how important it is, as individuals, to understand our genetic history. It’s not just about knowing our family’s health issues; it’s about how we confront and manage these challenges before they become difficult or impossible to deal with. Our children rely on us for guidance. They deserve the benefit of our awareness and honesty to help equip them for their own future.
I have always been driven by a desire to make a difference, both in my own life and in the lives of others. I want Black children to know that their worth isn’t determined by their circumstances or struggles but by their hearts and actions. My mother was my hero and inspiration. These goals and desire to bring about change in my community are inspired by the work she used to do when she was still alive.
My mother’s legacy of giving back (even when she didn’t have much herself) continues to inspire me. I remember how she would take me with her when doing pick-ups and drop-offs for clothing drives, and personally delivering the clothes to families in need. One family that stands out is a single mother and her two adult sons with disabilities. My mother would dedicate her time and efforts to ensure those boys were cared for. Her compassion and dedication have profoundly shaped who I am today.
My passions keep me moving forward. They fuel my desire to bring smiles to faces and make our community stronger and more informed. I hope to inspire others to embrace their potential, face their fears with courage, and work together to create a brighter future for our children.
My name is Tsholofelo and this is a glimpse of who I am.
My name is Tsholofelo Mahlangu, and I live in Poortjie. I grew up in Mabopane, Pretoria, and have many fond memories from my childhood there. I have been a teacher for 20 years, specializing in social and natural sciences. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with various communities in Tshwane, my hometown. I am passionate about developing literacy projects and implementing blended learning programs, such as coding and robotics, in the communities I work with.
I am also a member of 02 Green in Poortjie, a role that has allowed me to connect with people, initiate positive change, and pursue my aspirations. Though I initially perceived Poortjie as more of an informal settlement compared to Pretoria, I have grown to appreciate the community and have called it home for many years.
The transformation of Poortjie through the tree sector has captivated me. Witnessing the development and introduction of greenery and beauty to the community has been remarkable. While I have a heart for teaching and nurturing young minds, I find great purpose in engaging in community-based projects. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to be part of meaningful change through projects like those supported by 02 Green.
My passion lies in being a force for positive change within the community and making a difference in the lives of the next generation.
My social handles: Tentswalote@gmail.com
How to make your space feel more luxe
You know the feeling you get when you walk into a fancy hotel or shop? Well since we have all been pretty much stuck at home for the past few months. Getting to go to "nice" places has been a thing of the past. Which is why I have been focusing on making my home and space feel a little more luxe. What is luxe you ask? Simply put it is luxurious, fancy and just expensive looking. And whilst I would like to say I have an unlimited budget, I do not. Which means I often have to take a few short cuts when it comes to achieving this look and feel in my home. Here are 6 ways I have found that make my space feel fancy, cozy and hotel like.
- Add flowers: Flowers are the simplest way to elevate any space. And you don't even have to go with the real deal. Pick up some good life like faux flowers and you are good to go.
- Candles: Something about lighting a candle at the start or end of a day can make any space feel that much more special. I love collecting candles and placing them around the house. Lately I have started lighting one in our bedroom, and one in the bathroom. It gives off a soothing effect. And makes the space smell divine.
- White sheets: As one of those people who loves sleep (who doesn't?), nothing feels more luxurious or appropriate than white crisp clean sheets. In our house we even get excited by "clean sheet day". Which is the day we change the sheets on our bedding. White sheets are great as they can be mixed, matched and layered with so many accent colors. They also give a hotel feel. And make a room feel grown up.
- Declutter: With a one year old running around, it feels like I am always picking up her toys or vacuuming our apartment. But if there is one thing I have noticed is that my work is not in vein. Not only does having a tidy and clutter free space visually appealing. It also can help the space feel luxurious. Just think of all the homes you see in magazines and on TV. Most are styled well. But they also don't have a lot of clutter or random stuff lying around. Personally I like tidy our home once every second day for 30 minutes each. This includes dusting, vacuuming and just removing all clutter. On days when I don't do a full tidy, I make sure to open all the windows (even for just 10 minutes to let some fresh air in), and make all the beds in the house.
- Add plants: Nothing is more inviting than having plants in your home. But if you struggle to keep yours alive, fear not.There are many affordable, life like options out there. Even just the illusion of greenery is great for making a space look more considered.
- Hang art: Art is one of the best ways to showcase your personality. With so many prints available, you just cant go wrong. From large scale pieces to smaller ones. One thing I also recently learnt is to vary your art. Check out flea markets and second hand stores for statues, painted art works and photographs to give any room depth and personality.
