At school, Smangele Chiyi was actively involved in drama and sports, including athletics and netball. She strove to be a great role model for others, but more than anything, she wanted to make her family proud. Her life suddenly changed forever in December 2017 when she visited her family in Johannesburg and was caught up in a robbery, remembering hearing gunshots and falling to the floor, covered in blood.
Smangele’s injuries were severe; she fought for her life in intensive care for two weeks. She pulled through, but was paralyzed from the waist down. When she was finally discharged from the hospital, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding her life – in a wheelchair. Although she was scared, she told herself that she could get through this.
The support she got from her fellow patients while she was in rehabilitation, was a big part of her recovery. With the guidance of social workers, psychologists, and physiotherapists, Smangele began to heal, and eventually, she was able to go home. However, tragedy struck again in 2018 when Smangele received the devastating news that her five-year-old son had been involved in a fatal accident.
Fuelled by her own experiences, Smangele has made it her mission to inspire people with disabilities and those who are differently abled. Leading by example yet again, Smangele is currently a learner at EduPower Skills Academy, where she is enrolled in a 12-month Learnership Programme.
In addition to her professional growth, Smangele’s outstanding skills have earned her a place on the National SeniorEduPower Skills Academy team that will be participating in the African Para Games in Ghana in September. Smangele, an inspiration to all who encounter her, proves that with passion, determination, and a courageous mindset, it is possible to conquer adversity, rise above it, and achieve against all odds when fuelled by unwavering determination and self-belief.
