Building the Future: Pheyello Tshepo Namane’s Next Chapter with IAWA

We’re excited to welcome Pheyello Tshepo Namane—who goes by Tshepo—to the I Am, We Are (IAWA) team! Tshepo first joined IAWA in 2021 as a Youth Facilitator, helping young people navigate challenges beyond home and school. Through his journey, he has developed skills in coaching, leadership, and empathic listening—tools he now brings to his new role. Passionate about youth development, he looks forward to contributing his voice to decision-making and inspiring others to embrace resilience through his "Rest Mode" philosophy. Read on to learn more about Tshepo’s journey and the impact he hopes to make!

Can you share your journey with I Am, We Are (IAWA)? What inspired you to join the program, and how has it shaped you over the years?

Well I started with IAWA as a Youth Facilitator back in 2021, back then they were transitioning from 1-on-1 to virtual due to the pandemic (Covid-19). What got me interested was that IAWA was being the third pillar besides the home and school system for youth to learn on. In a way this has helped me really see and understand the dynamics of what youth go through and be an empathic listener.

What are some of the most valuable lessons or skills you gained from IAWA, and how do you see them helping you in your new role?

Empathic listener an d coaching are one of the skills I gained from IAWA  and honing my leadership and presentation skills. Such skills will be beneficial in my new role to enhance my organisational and communication skills for better workflow.

What excites you the most about transitioning from an IAWA participant to a full-time team member?

Well for me it is what I always wanted because it was not so long ago that I was young, so being part of the decision making team will be great and then I can contribute with my thoughts and opinions.

Now that you're part of the IAWA team, what impact do you hope to make on the program and the young people coming through it?

I want to achieve and adopt the Rest Mode lifestyle, because it is important to rest, adjust, and rethink. Life is full of hurdles so you might end up being overwhelmed or losing yourself in the process of achieving your dreams or goals, so taking a breather and accepting your situation can ease or help you bounce back on your feet or actually try a different method as long as the goal remains the same. Success is not a straight path so in planning on what you want to achieve you must also be prepared for the hurdles that can come on that path.