Oarabile Mochwanaesi, 25, is a qualified dentist and MSc candidate in community dentistry at the University of the Witwatersrand. He merges clinical expertise with research and advocacy. His academic focus lies in improving access to oral healthcare through community-based interventions — including leading a mobile dental unit that delivered essential services directly to underserved communities. In 2018, during his first year at university, he founded the Mochwanaesi Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that empowers high school learners through mentorship, tutoring, career guidance and leadership development. Thousands of learners across South Africa have benefited, with many now studying in fields such as medicine, engineering and education. In addition to his clinical and nonprofit work, he serves as a judge for the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, encouraging youth innovation and research. Inspired by his late parents and mentors such as Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, Oarabile leads with strategy, compassion and conviction. His work proves that when education meets pur- pose, futures are not only shaped — they are liberated.