Young community hero, student and CEO Dimakatso Lekola has won another award for his role in uplifting South Africa through education after winning one of the 10 Raising Legends Awards:
Polokwane, Limpopo (10 May 2024) — Dimakatso Lekola isn’t wasting any time on uplifting South Africa’s youth. As a student who is only in his early twenties, the law student and young CEO has already committed to his fellow youth through his drive for educational empowerment; which has helped him rise to the status as one of South Africa’s youth leaders to watch. Recently, Dimakatso added another note of recognition of his journey in this capacity—winning one of the ten Raising Legends awards!
The Raising Legends—A Boy Child Initiative by the Hope Givers Foundation centres around active ways to raise responsible young men in the fight against gender-based violence. The Raising Legends Awards honoured several leaders in different categories who have been dubbed ‘game changers’ in communities.
Dimakatso won his category: Community Builder and Education & Academia and described the win as a “humbling and exhilarating moment” and one of honour for him and his team. As the founder of the educational gap-bridging-focused DK Lekola Global Education Institute (which helps high school and tertiary education students from underserved backgrounds access tutoring support), the Raising Legends Award was further recognition of his calling to educational empowerment.
“Personally, this award holds immense significance, as it validates my lifelong dedication to education and community building,” shared the young leader who last year, won the Community Builder of the Year Award.
“In the next five years, you can expect me to continue leading DK Lekola Global Institute towards greater heights of success. I envision expanding our reach and impact, fostering partnerships, and implementing innovative educational initiatives to empower communities globally,” he says of the future.
“I am committed to bridging the gap in South Africa’s education system and promoting inclusivity,” he adds.
“Through various initiatives, including academic support, mental health services, talent development, legal compliance and mentorship programs, my team and I are making a tangible difference in the lives of learners and students. We have been actively focused on education and academia for over two years, continuously striving to enhance educational opportunities and promote lifelong learning. ”
In advice to future community builders, Dimakatso says:
“For individuals looking to start influencing or encouraging education and academia in their communities, I advise starting with a clear vision and passion for making a difference. Embrace collaboration, leverage resources, and stay resilient in the face of challenges. Remember, the journey towards transformative change begins with a single step, and with dedication and determination, anything is possible.”
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