In the heart of Limpopo’s Polokwane, a powerful narrative unfolds through the life of Thabang Tleane, a self-made author and motivational speaker dedicated to uplifting young South Africans facing unprecedented challenges.
Armed with determination and a profound sense of purpose, the Tshwane University of Technology graduate has transitioned from writing in notebooks to sharing his wisdom globally, inspiring countless individuals to carve their own paths in life.
Tleane’s journey began with humble beginnings, growing up in a rural area where access to resources was scarce. Despite limitations, his passion for writing flourished from an early age. His first book emerged from the pages of a dual-purpose notebook, used for both homework and his aspirations. “It started like a joke; everyone undermined the idea. But I kept pushing,” he recalls. Today, he proudly holds three motivational books: Your Action, Your Future, Powerless Man on Planet Earth, and Motivation to the Sad Generation with Happy Pictures.
Inspiration struck at entrepreneurial seminars, where Tleane observed young achievers who emerged from backgrounds similar to his own. “Seeing those individuals succeed pushed me to reflect on my own life,” he explains. Alongside personal revelations, reading influential works, particularly Dr Adolph Mathiba’s Students Principles and Joyce Meyer’s writings, helped shape the essence of his motivational voice.
Motivation to the Sad Generation with Happy Pictures delves into the mental crises afflicting today’s youth, depression and the rising spectre of suicide, exacerbated by the pressures of social media. Tleane insists, “Our generation faces life threatening issues. Young people are often misled by the perfect lives displayed online. I want them to seek real solutions to their problems.”
It started like a joke; everyone undermined the idea. But I kept pushing.
However, Tleane’s journey has not been devoid of challenges. One major hurdle was navigating the publishing landscape. Initially struggling to know how to proceed beyond writing, he eventually embraced self publishing, thereby reclaiming control over his message. “The vital piece of advice I offer aspiring authors is to gather as much information as you can and believe in your work,” he advises confidently.
To attract a diverse readership, Tleane has turned to social media platforms and local media engagements. “Social media has been a lifeline; I receive incredible support from unexpected places, and many of my books are sold through these platforms,” he explains. His commitment shines through not only in marketing but also in his relentless pursuit to connect with those in need of encouragement.
As Tleane looks towards the future, he remains dedicated to reaching out to youth across South Africa. His books are available for purchase from him via courier services, ensuring accessibility for those eager for inspiration. “I want to reach as many young people as possible, to instil hope and positivity,” he states emphatically. He regularly conducts workshops in schools and community centres, reaching over 1,000 young people monthly through his motivational sessions.
The cover of 'Motivation to the Sad Generation with Happy Pictures' by Thabang Tleane. Picture: Supplied
Currently, he’s working on a fourth title. As he pens down more words of wisdom, he dreams of a potential adaptation of his work into a visual medium, citing television drama Skeem Saam as an ideal platform for his message.
Through hard work, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of motivation, Tleane has transformed his humble beginnings into a beacon of hope for countless individuals encountering life’s uncertainties. His story reinforces the idea that a dream nurtured in challenging circumstances can blossom into a profound influence on the world.
Interested people can order Tleane’s books directly from him via WhatsApp 072 754 0365 or Mr T Tleane Author on Facebook.
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