Written by: Admin_SheEvo
Kedibone Mahlatsi is a remarkable young woman and a mother of three children who lives in Hoopstad, a small town in the Free State province of South Africa. Amongst many other things she does, she is a passionate advocate for tree planting and storytelling and is already making a practical positive impact in her community. Her journey is inspiring and speaks to her resilience, compassion, and steadfast commitment to making a difference. In this piece, we will delve into Kedibone’s inspiring efforts and the profound impact she’s making, specifically through the “1000 Stories, 100,000 Trees” initiative.
Kedibone has gone through a tough and personal journey that has been marked by tragedy, loss, and lots more challenges. She grew up in a challenging family background and, as a result, faced many losses in a short period of time, including the death of her mother, sister, uncle, and grandmother. She also experienced harassment from an early age through her early adulthood, which added to her already long list of obstacles. Despite these setbacks, Kedibone’s dedication shines through, symbolised by her determination to bring about change in her community wherever possible.
On the 1st and 2nd of Feb 2024, Kedibone led the She Evolves tree planting and storytelling project, called 1000Stories, 100, 000 Trees, in a nearby community called Riverside, Hoopstad, which exemplifies her commitment to creating positive change regardless of circumstances. Leading the charge, she, along with local greening partner Clement, planted an impressive 192 trees in the community – within two days. Just reflecting on the moment, I have a goosebumps rush. The project not only transforms landscapes but also nurtures social cohesion and strengthens community bonds.
Kedibone Mahlatse’s journey from adversity to resilience is a sign of hope for her community and beyond. Her dedication to community development, environmental sustainability, and personal growth make her a true heroine deserving of recognition on a global scale. Through “1000 Stories, 100,000 Trees,” Kedibone is leaving an enduring legacy/mark that will continue to blossom for years to come. Her efforts remind us that even in the face of hardships, we can plant seeds of change that will grow into a brighter future.