​A heartfelt moment unfolded during the recent LGBTQIA+ Seminar hosted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg, when 22-year-old Tshepiso Mofokeng, a brave lesbian woman from Thokoza, shared her deeply personal story of survival and resilience.
Moved by her courage, the Department has committed to assisting Mofokeng through its Eastern Corridor office, with plans to facilitate her admission into one of the province’s Skills Development Centres, a key step towards empowerment and rebuilding her life.

Mofokeng, a recovering substance user, rape survivor, and young mother, spoke about her struggles, including community bullying, family rejection, and the long-term trauma of sexual violence and addiction.

“I was raped in a nearby park at a young age while my mother, who struggled with alcoholism, failed to protect me. She has always blamed me instead of supporting me,” she said.

Her testimony struck a chord with Ms Phumla Xaba, Director for GYDM within the Department, who immediately pledged to intervene.

“We are going to follow up and assess her situation through our Social Work team. This is exactly why these seminars matter, they create safe spaces for community voices to be heard,” said Xaba.

Mofokeng recounted how she carries a knife for self-defence after facing repeated bullying for her sexual orientation.

She also reflected on the complex layers of her identity and trauma, including the confusion around her sexual awakening, unsure whether it was influenced by the rape, drug abuse, or her genuine attraction to women.

Despite the pain, she found relief in knowing that the perpetrator of her rape had faced justice.

“He was beaten by the community and later served time in prison. But that was just one part of my pain,” she said.

Adding to her emotional burden, Mofokeng discovered at the age of 18 that her father, whom she believed to be dead, had in fact been incarcerated. The revelation was a turning point in her life.

“I thought reconnecting with him would bring peace, but instead, he introduced me to drugs. My life felt like a curse,” she revealed.

Tragically, she also lost custody of her child, fathered by her rapist, to his family.

Recognising the gravity of Mofokeng’s circumstances, the Gauteng Department of Social Development has stepped in to provide a lifeline.

“She has endured more than most people ever should. As a Department, we believe she deserves a second chance at life, and we are ready to walk that journey with her,” said Xaba.

Through its intervention, the Department hopes to provide not only access to skills training but also psychosocial support and pathways to healing.

As the seminar concluded, Mofokeng expressed hope for a fresh start, one where her identity, safety, and potential are respected.