My name is Tshwanelo Maleko. I’m a master’s student in Communication at the NWU and an intern in the Sustainability and Community Impact Department. My passion lies in Communication for Social Change.

In October last year, I joined the TRACTOR Project as a volunteer communication lead. Through Mrs Bibi Bouwman, I was introduced to Mrs Esmé Marks – the project’s “mother.” That meeting was the start of a journey that would change not only how I see community work, but also how I see myself.

The planning days

The early days were not easy. There were many meetings, but at times, communication fell short. I often felt overwhelmed and even frustrated. Still, I stayed. Because deep down I knew I was part of something larger than myself. I wanted to learn, to grow, to contribute.

Life on the road

When the campaign finally launched, I was excited to travel. But even more than that, I was eager to experience – to connect, to listen, to learn.

On the road, I wore many hats: photographer, videographer, communicator. At times, the pressure of capturing every moment pulled me away from what mattered most – truly connecting with people and amplifying their voices. Over time, I realised that community work is not only about serving others, but also about allowing yourself to be transformed in the process.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IYYEsYiYI2g

Seeing the reality

Some of the towns we visited struck a deep chord with me.

Coming from a disadvantaged background myself, I could relate to the struggles I witnessed: limited access to education, caregivers doing their best with little support, and elders navigating life with very few resources.

It humbled me. It reminded me that true service requires listening before speaking, learning before advising, and understanding the diverse realities that shape people’s lives.

The lessons I carry

One of the most powerful lessons I learned is this: people don’t always need answers – sometimes they just need someone to listen.

Stories poured out of the communities we visited. Some were about dementia, others about survival, pain, and resilience. Simply being present gave people hope. Listening with empathy showed me the true meaning of Ubuntu.

The TRACTOR journey taught me resilience, patience, and compassion. It showed me that real impact comes from doing the work with your heart, not just your hands.

My guiding quote

“You can’t do community without doing yourself.”

This quote became my compass. I know what it feels like to be overlooked, misunderstood, and unheard. On this journey, I had to be strong for myself and believe in my dreams when no one else did.

The TRACTOR Rally reminded me that my personal struggles prepared me for this role – to listen deeply, to act wisely, and to care genuinely.

Gratitude

I am deeply grateful to the NWU, my lecturers, friends, and the Sustainability and Community Impact family for supporting me, believing in me, and walking this road without judgment.

I am proud to be an NWU student, an alumnus, a volunteer, and an intern who could play a part in the TRACTOR Project. This journey has humbled me, strengthened my purpose, and deepened my belief that together, we can transform communities – one story, one connection, and one act of Ubuntu at a time.