A Soul Sparkle Success Story

Mbalie proudly displays her graduation certificate from Naledi Community Centre, also known as the Lethabong Community Centre which was started by Mama Sophie. This was Mbalie when she was 5 years old. That was 16 years ago.

Early education at Sophie’s Creche was instrumental in Mbalie attending college. She is now studying for her 4 year Bachelor of Social Work degree at North West University at Mafikeng Campus.

When Mbalie was 5 years old she lost her mother and was raised by her grandmother. Attending the Creche proved to be an important turning point in young Mbalie’s life.

There she embarked on a lifelong relationship with Mama Sophie and was also introduced to the Soul Sparkles, the first AIDS orphans support group in Lethabong where Mbalie found camaraderie, friendship, and guidance in a loving environment.

It was hard not to notice Mbalie who did exceptionally well in school and on her school exams. Being accepted at college was a dream come true, but the realities of paying for college have proven to be an uphill struggle.

It is challenging for Mbalie to fund expenses for food, transportation, toiletries and books. She takes her online exams and submits her homework through her cell phone which works erratically. Still, she has managed to overcome adversity to get good grades even without the convenience of a laptop.

Mbalie is receiving some funding from school. Jobs are scarce in South Africa even for someone as bright as Mbalie. At times it is a difficult fighting depression and anxiety about her financial pressures while continuing to get good grades in school.

Her biggest worry is dropping out of school.

Mbalie prays for her grandmother and Sophie’s protection and blessings. She especially considers her grandmother, "the best guardian to me because when you do not have parents or family members, she has never forsaken me and I'm grateful for that.”