The Think Café: Empowering Free State communities through literacy

In the heart of the Free State, a group of passionate individuals came together with a common vision; to cultivate a love for reading and writing in their community. That is how Think Café, an organisation dedicated to Literacy and Arts advancement, was born; out of a desire to address the critical need for literacy enhancement, especially among the youth in the area.

“This was an idea I had which was combined with a little bit of other ideas from my fellow founders,” shared Lebohang Phoshuli, the Director of Think Café. Lebohang, alongside co-founders Fumane Kotelo, Madijo Mosebo, and Pule Matlokotsi embarked on a journey to make a difference in their town.

“We were at home, unemployed, waiting for institutions to open, when we decided to work on something while we waited, and that’s how Think Café began,” said Phoshuli.

Their first initiative was to tackle the issue of dysfunctional libraries in local primary schools.

“We approached local schools in the area and volunteered to clean the libraries and ensured that they were functional,” Lebohang explained. But they didn’t stop there, “we implemented book clubs at the schools we had partnered with to address literacy challenges, especially during the transition from the foundation phase to the intermediate phase,” he added.

When the Think Café Library Society was founded, it’s aim was to build a reading nation one school at a time.

“When these young people approached me, outlining their plans and seeking collaboration I was very excited and welcomed the initiative with both hands because I knew that the school, teachers and learners would benefit greatly,” said Mrs Thiwane, Principal at Boliba Primary School.

Efforts didn’t go unnoticed when the founders started seeing learners rushing to the library after school sessions. “Students are not only enjoying the sessions but also excelling in their studies, we’ve instilled confidence in them, and they now actively participate in class,” Lebohang shared proudly.

Think Café’s impact extends beyond academic achievement.

“We address broader issues such as drug abuse and disobedience through our initiatives, by implementing inclusive programmes and ensuring that every learner feels welcomed and valued,” Lebohang explained.

Looking ahead, Think Café aims to expand its reach to other towns.

“We hope to secure funding and garner support from the community to continue our work,” Lebohang emphasised.

“Think Café is for the people, and we’re committed to empowering every individual through literacy,” he said.

For those interested in supporting Think Café’s mission can reach out via email at thinkcafe@gmail.com or contact Lebohang Phoshuli directly at 063-269-1763.