Once homeless and growing up in a neighbourhood often written off for its dangers, Tebogo Mabye now wears many hats to highlight the potential of Hillbrow.
Johannesburg, South Africa (05 February 2026) – Tebogo Mabye grew up in Hillbrow, a neighbourhood often written off for its hardships and danger. Yet for him, it is home.
“I call it home because that’s where I was born and raised, and that’s the community that I feel closest to.”
It all boils down to perspective.
“The same people that some might call dangerous are the same people that shaped me, who protected me, and who continue to protect the community.”
Life was never easy. Tebogo experienced homelessness and spent years in a shelter, but those early struggles never defined him. Today, he is a chef, barista, part-time model, kickboxing champion, and 2024 MasterChef SA contestant. More importantly, he is a voice for the young people of Hillbrow.
“The one I feel closest to is the one I am now. Still inspired not to let my circumstances take over, trying to run my own businesses and give back to my community in whatever way I can.”
His work with Jozi My Jozi Walks, a community-led walking festival, showcases the heart of his mission. Tebogo’s tour through Hillbrow won the prize for capturing the area’s complexity. Everything from the good, the bad, and the ugly.
“I took people around landmarks that shaped the community, including places I grew up in, showing that there are ways to exist positively here and to preserve the neighbourhood.”
Tebogo is careful not to position himself as the hero. Instead, he emphasises on the collective effort. During the walk, a young woman, Pinky, he had mentored prepared a meal that was shared on the rooftop.
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“One of the meals was a recipe I taught her when she was younger.”
For Tebogo food is more than a means of sustenance, it is connection.
“Nutrition and food are one of the best ways to impact a person.”
Through cooking, mentoring, and connecting people with one another, he fosters relationships and resources that strengthen the community.
Looking ahead, Tebogo hopes to see Hillbrow continue evolving through the efforts of its residents.
For a man who has lived through the hardship and is now shaping the lives of others, Tebogo sees a future where the neighbourhood he grew up in becomes a place of opportunity for those who live there.
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