Tsebo Grace Moketa is on a mission, determined to achieve her dreams of African empowerment. Despite the fact that she was raised by a single mother, who passed away when she was 10 years old, the influencer still pursues her unique purpose in life with tenacity.

She transformed the bitter lemons that life threw at her into a refreshing pitcher of lemonade. Moketa is the founder and CEO of Connaissance Foundation; an organisation whose priority is to mend the cracks in the education system. “When I started out I had no educational background related to the cause I was pursuing. All I had was a vision and a strong will,” she says.

The Lesotho-born leader joined Columbia University to explore the “Science of Learning”. The course demonstrates through contemporary research on how people acquire knowledge; as well as the way our brain makes, stores and retrieves memories.  Moketa is also a qualified image, business and corporate etiquette consultant, having qualified at the London School of Economics.

Ever the versatile and talented go-getter, she co-founded the African Spelling Bee. This was in collaboration with eight like-minded organisations across the greater African continent. The ambitious project has joined a network of 18 countries and has impacted over five million people.

Moketa advises young people to pursue causes that resonate with their visions and purposes. “Face whatever challenges with determination and be open to learning new things,” she advises.

“I used to dread challenges so much so that I literally prayed to never have to face them again but, with every project they came. Things will seem on the positive in the beginning and then just before fruition it all comes crashing down. I have learned as this happens to let go of all control and, let God do what he does best – show Himself to give you strength,” Moketa says.

She is quick to warn young people that before a breakthrough, there is often a breakdown.

“The trick is to stay in the process, no matter the cost. In the end, it will work for your good, I can bet on that,” Moketa says. She cites Les Brown who famously said: “There will be times when you feel alone and deserted, when you feel weak and doubt yourself, and wonder if you are stark raving mad, but if you endure and persevere, eventually you will arrive at your dream.”

In addition, Moketa urges young people to maintain a decent reputation as it will lead to plentiful opportunities. “Your image will open doors for you and, your substance will sustain it so invest in both. Dress and hold yourself like royalty and, read as much as you can,” she suggests. “Try the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Steve Covey and my old time favourite, “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. Love God, He always comes through when nobody can”.