Written by: Bonolo Moahludi
Article source: JOY! Magazine
Meet Bonolo, a remarkable 14-year-old girl from the townships of South Africa who is defying the odds and changing lives in her community. From facing bullying at a young age, Bonolo found her voice and used it to inspire others through powerful videos. Her journey expanded to the world of radio, where she fearlessly tackled pressing youth issues. Not stopping there, Bonolo opened Bonolo’s Soup Kitchen during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide for less privileged children. Her unwavering faith, determination, and empathy have made her a beacon of hope and inspiration, as she continues to make a profound impact on the lives of others.
My name is Bonolo and I am 14 years old. I am the youngest daughter of Teboho Moahludi, and I have two sisters, Matumelo and Palesa. I also have my grandfather, Joseph, and my little niece, Michaela. I was born and raised in Alexandra, a township in Joburg.
A proud mother
Initially, I attended a local crèche called Tshiamong crèche because my mom couldn’t afford to send me to a private one. Later, I moved to Dr Knak Primary School, which was not taught in my home language, yet it was closer to our home. I didn’t have much trouble learning a different language at a young age when I started grade 1. I still remember something my mom said to me: “My child, I can’t afford a private school, but I will bring private school into our home.” And she did just that by teaching me how to read and write in English. That’s why I don’t feel bad about not attending a private school. Besides, I am doing well in school, and my mom is very proud of me.
Seeking God first
My mom used to take me to Solid Community Church in Buccleuch, which wasn’t far from our home, although we needed transportation to get there. I started enjoying going to church and understanding the Word of God, especially the 10 Commandments. Even though my mom had a lot to do on Sundays, she would wake me up and prepare me for church.
Standing up against bullies
During my time in primary school, I faced a lot of bullying at the age of 7. But I didn’t let them bully me, and I stood up for myself. I then made a video about bullying, and that’s where everything started. I continued making videos, which taught me that I could be an inspiration to my peers. One of the videos featured me pretending to do the weather on TV. My mom shared it on Facebook, and people recognised my talent.
So much passion in such a young human
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, my mom reached out to several radio stations to showcase my skills. She contacted YDFM, an online radio station, where I did morning and night prayers. A few months later, she contacted Alex FM, our local radio station. That’s when I realised that I could pursue this path. My radio show was called Bigger Than Life, currently known as The Amplifiers. We discussed topics such as teenage pregnancy, bullying, child labour, and everything that affects the youth. I also joined Save the Children SA as a human rights defender and participated in a drive campaign focused on children’s lives.
Serving others
In 2021, during the COVID-19 lockdown, I used to visit a feeding scheme in my community, but it had to close down. So, I decided to open Bonolo’s Soup Kitchen to provide for the less privileged children. Despite not being wealthy, my family believes in caring and sharing. We face challenging times when we don’t have enough food, but by the grace of God, we have never gone to bed on empty stomachs.
An inspiration to the community
Bonolo’s Soup Kitchen serves 40-70 kids and receives support from AGT Foods, which donates 4 x 25 kg bags of soup mix. This support, along with bread from our local bakery, helps improve the lives of these children, although it’s not a permanent solution. My soup kitchen has attracted attention from various people, including the media. I have been interviewed on Radio 2000, SA FM, and Power FM. In fact, I ended up being a co-host on Power FM’s show called Powerzone with Thoriso Maloka. It was an amazing experience to know that I was on a national radio station. I have also been approached by TV and newspapers, such as SABC 1 (Kids News), Newzroom Afrika, and Media and Society. I had the opportunity to appear on live TV, discussing my soup kitchen and my radio show. Furthermore, I was invited to be a guest presenter for SABC One Kids News, where I hosted a show on peer pressure. I was over the moon watching myself on TV, doing what I love. I have now been offered a permanent position as the news anchor of SABC2 Kids News Room.
Shining God’s light
I want to thank God for the beautiful talent He has given me. I pray every morning before going to school, before meals, and simply to thank Him for everything, without asking for anything in return. I would like to advise all my peers to have faith in God because with Him, everything is possible. They shouldn’t wait until they are 18 to follow their dreams. They must avoid peer pressure, stay away from drugs, and respect not only their parents but all elders, including their teachers.
If you would like to reach out to Bonolo to encourage this young “angel”, please contact her mom on 082 763 0092 or via email nonomofammere@gmail.com
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Date published: 13/08/2023
Feature image: Bonolo Moahludi
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