Ngoako Emmanuel Rapanyane

Ngoako Emmanuel Rapanyane, 21, is already changing the educational landscape — not through theory alone, but also action. As a temporary teacher with the Gauteng department of education, he is also pursuing postgraduate studies in curriculum studies at the University of Johannesburg. Ngoako is the founder of Mabokgoni Academy, a growing academic support initiative offering high-impact tutoring and mentorship to learners from under- resourced communities. His belief that no learner should be left behind fuels every session, strategy and success story. A former Top Tutor Award recipient at the University of Johannesburg, Ngoako was also recognised with a Perfect Attendance Award from Numeric for his commitment to mathematics education. He continues to serve as a university tutor, supporting students academically and personally as they navigate complex circumstances. Inspired by his grandmother’s resilience, Ngoako’s vision is generational: to uplift families, communities and the education system through excellence, service and belief in young people’s potential to thrive — no matter where they start.

• Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies, University of Johannesburg (*in progress)
• Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching, University of Johannesburg

• Completed a Bachelor of Education degree — a foundational academic and personal milestone, marking dedication to the teaching profession
• Recipient of the Top Tutor Award, University of Johannesburg – recognised for academic excellence and inspirational student support.
• Commended by the Tutor Coordinator, University of Johannesburg – acknowledged for consistent performance and positive student feedback during tutoring engagements
• Founded Mabokgoni Academy — established to provide equitable academic support for all learners, regardless of background, with a focus on compassion, access and excellence

I deeply admire my grandmother, who raised me and played a central role in shaping the person I am today. Growing up, I watched her work tirelessly as a street vendor, selling snacks outside our local primary school. No matter the weather — whether it was raining, extremely hot, freezing cold or even when she was unwell — she would wake up every morning at four o’clock to prepare the snacks and ensure she showed up. Her consistency, resilience and unwavering faith in everything she does continue to inspire me. She values kindness, humility and being a responsible, civil citizen who always extends a helping hand to those in need. These values were instilled in me from a very young age, and they have guided my approach to life, work and how I engage with others. Her strength and selflessness have taught me the importance of showing up, even when it is difficult, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around me.