By Sbongile Sokela
Thabang Gift Lichaba, known by many as “The CEO,” is not just a community leader, he is the heartbeat behind Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers, a growing non-profit organization changing the lives of young people in and around Daveyton and Etwatwa. His journey is one of loss, resilience, and a deep desire to make a difference.
Born and raised in Daveyton, Etwatwa, Thabang faced life-altering challenges from a young age. Losing his grandmother in 2011 could have crushed his spirit, but instead, it became a turning point. “Her passing pushed me to rebuild my life and chase my dreams,” he says.
Mentorship played a major role in Thabang’s transformation. He credits Putseletso “Pitse” Mosia as his mentor and greatest influence. “It’s important to have people who believe in your dreams. I surround myself with people who push me, uplift me, and walk the journey with me. I call them my brothers,” he shares.
Thabang originally dreamed of becoming a professional footballer. While that dream evolved, it laid the foundation for something even greater, leadership. Today, he leads Bacha Ba Dichaba Explorers, guiding young people through educational and social development. His involvement with impactful organizations like SAAYC, Activate Change Drivers, and others helped him grow into the leader he is today.
“These platforms shaped me into someone who serves with purpose. My goal now is to grow Bacha Ba Dichaba into a full academy and foundation. I also want to become a professional facilitator, assessor, and moderator,” he explains.
Under Thabang’s leadership, Bacha Ba Dichaba has made remarkable strides. The organization produced 22 learners who represented South Africa in Lesotho, and walked away with an international spelling bee trophy.
They also coordinated a national online public speaking competition in partnership with the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation during the COVID-19 pandemic. “That was one of our proudest moments. We gave learners a voice when everything was locked down,” Thabang recalls.
But the journey isn’t without its challenges. Access to quality education, limited exposure, and lack of resources remain major barriers for many kids. Thabang is calling on stakeholders, sponsors, and donors to come on board. “We have the passion, the ideas, and the people, we just need the support to deliver quality services and open more doors for our youth,” he says.
Thabang Gift Lichaba is a true example of turning pain into purpose and dreams into action. His story is not just inspiring, it’s proof that one person, with the right mindset and support, can spark real change in a community.
“We’re building more than just an organization. We’re building a legacy of hope, empowerment, and opportunity,” he says with conviction.
Indeed, behind every rising NPO is a face, a story, and a heartbeat, and Thabang Lichaba is exactly that for Bacha Ba Dichaba.
