Tlhabane Based Social Worker Makes A Difference

By Noko Mashilo

Nature Manala (30) is disrupting the silence in communities by introducing programmes that encourage better communication between parents and children.

These initiatives tackle various issues prevalent in dysfunctional families, such as patriarchy, sexual abuse, and households led by children, among others. Her primary goal is to promote the community’s optimal health and well-being.

Originally from GaMasemola in Sekhukhune, Limpopo, this dedicated young social worker now resides in Tlhabane kasie, Rustenburg, North West. She collaborates with the Social, Health, and Education departments to provide integrated support programmes. These efforts ensure that students receive the necessary assistance to stay in school until they complete their high school education.

Nature serves as the IN-School manager for adolescents and young people at Show Me Your Number, a non-profit organisation. Her role involves offering technical support to implement HIV programmes for youth aged between 10 and 24. She aligns her programmes with the National Strategic Plan and actively contributes to the implementation of the school health policy. “I create awareness among parents about comprehensive sexuality education in schools, which is part of the Life Orientation Curriculum. Additionally, I manage a programme that focuses on new HIV prevention, delivering a comprehensive package of social, structural, and biomedical services aimed at reaching 80% of at-risk adolescents in schools,” explained this proactive individual.

Her team comprises 23 learner support agents, six care champions, three social auxiliary workers, and one social worker.

Nature considers her participation in the National Strategic Plan for 2023 to 2028, contributing to consultations at the provincial and national levels under the Civil Society Forum led by renowned activist Steve Letsike, as a career highlight.

Reflecting on the challenges posed by Covid-19, Nature highlighted the difficulties in supporting their beneficiaries. “School closures meant that learners spent most of their time at home, affecting those whose safe haven is usually at school, where they also have meals,” she explained.

Another challenge arose from beneficiaries being restricted in reporting cases. “We also witnessed a high number of teen pregnancies during Covid-19, as reported by the Health department,” expressed Nature with concern.

When asked why she chose to become a social worker, Nature revealed that due to being unwell on registration day, she entrusted her sister, Kgomotso Manala, to choose a course for her. Social work was the chosen field. “Today, I’m grateful to relieve people’s suffering, fight for social justice, and make positive changes in lives and communities. Being part of the solution to many social issues brings me immense happiness,” she concluded.