Mary Thandazile Raletoone is a remarkable woman born in Vosloorus, Meqheleng, who has dedicated her life to serving her community. As a community developer and businesswoman, Mary’s journey is a testament to her resilience, compassion, and determination.
Early Life and Education
Mary began her primary education at Meqheleng Primary School under the guidance of the late Principal Lebitsa. She is the firstborn of five siblings, two of whom have passed away. After completing her matric, Mary pursued a career in social work, studying Social Auxiliary Work and advancing herself with various soft courses.
Volunteer Work and Career
Mary’s passion for helping others began at a young age. At just seven years old, she volunteered to assist her community. One notable incident that stands out was when she helped a neighbor who had been burned by his wife. Unfortunately, the woman passed away, but Mary’s selfless act had a lasting impact.
Mary’s professional journey began with domestic work in Ficksburg, where she earned R300 per month. She later moved to Carltonville, where she continued to work and volunteer at Lesley Hospital. Her exceptional performance caught the attention of the nurses and doctors, who offered her a bursary to study nursing. However, due to family circumstances, Mary was unable to pursue this opportunity.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Mary’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to work at Langerberg Company, also known as Spanakising, which she eventually owned. In 1998, she met with the late Popi Marotholi and the late Matshepo Tshepo, and together they established Gethsemane Health Care Centre. Mary volunteered at the center for five years before joining Itekeng Disabled Centre as a volunteer.
Challenges and Triumphs
Mary’s life has not been without challenges. She faced significant difficulties, including the brutal killing of one of her siblings. Despite these hardships, Mary persevered and continued to serve her community. Her passion for working with physically challenged individuals led her to Itekeng Disabled Centre.
At the center, Mary discovered that many children were locked in their houses, only venturing out when their parents or guardians collected their grants. Determined to make a difference, Mary sought funding to support the center. Her first funding came from Kentucky Fried Chicken, which enabled her to renovate the center, purchase furniture and clothing for the children, and acquire a taxi for transportation.
Subsequent funding from Hare Thusaneng Funeral, the American Embassy (facilitated by Pastor David Mokotjo), and the National Lotteries Commission enabled Mary to expand the center’s services. The Japan Embassy contributed to the construction of a state-of-the-art child and youth care facility, providing a permanent home for abandoned physically challenged children.
Job Creation and Empowerment
In 2009, Mary initiated a job creation program, recognizing that parents and guardians of physically challenged children relied heavily on their children’s grants. She also launched the Itekeng Clean and Green project, which empowered physically challenged children to learn dressmaking and other income-generating skills. The project initially started with 30 women but grew to 600 participants.
Awards and Recognition
Mary’s tireless efforts have earned her numerous awards, including:
- 2007: Free State Department of Social Development Award
- 2016: Redbow Award
- 2017: Woman in Business Award
Legacy and Impact
Today, Itekeng Disabled Centre boasts four state-of-the-art buildings, thanks to the contributions of the Free State Department of Social Development. Mary’s entrepreneurial ventures, including Langerberg firm, have created over 10,000 jobs, with a focus on empowering physically challenged individuals to produce items for the tourism industry.
Mary Thandazile Raletoone’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the impact one person can have when they dedicate their life to serving others. Her selflessness, resilience, and determination have inspired countless individuals, and her legacy will continue to transform lives for generations to come.
