About Thabohlale
Our Name
The name Thabohlale was born from two beautiful Sesotho words: Thabo, meaning joy, and Bohlale, meaning wisdom. Together, they reflect the heart and vision of our centre — a place where growth, learning, dignity, and happiness can flourish side by side.
The inspiration for the name also comes from the Bible verse Proverbs 23:24:
"The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise."
— Proverbs 23:24
For us, this verse speaks deeply to the purpose of Thabohlale: nurturing individuals with wisdom, character, confidence, and joy, while celebrating every achievement along the journey. The name represents hope, potential, and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and shine in their own unique way.
Our vision
We want to create a safe, empowering, and joyful environment where young adults with intellectual disabilities develop wisdom, independence, dignity, and purpose. A place where they can participate meaningfully in their communities and live fulfilling lives.
Our mission
Thabohlale Life Skills Centre is dedicated to supporting young adults aged 18 and over with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through structured daily programmes, life skills training, supported work opportunities, and community engagement, we nurture independence, confidence, and dignity in a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where every individual is valued.
The gap we are filling
In South Africa, young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities face a real shortage of opportunities after school. Once the school years end, many go home and stay home, without daily structure, stimulation, or chances to develop independence.
Families carry the weight of full-time care, which takes a toll emotionally, financially, and physically. And without structured programmes, young adults often experience social isolation, declining confidence, and limited prospects for meaningful participation or employment.
Transitional centres that combine safe daily programming, life skills development, supported independence, and community engagement are rare. Thabohlale is built to fill that gap.
Our values
Eight values shape how we work.
Joy
Learning in a positive, encouraging environment
Wisdom
Building life skills and understanding
Respect
Honouring dignity and individuality
Inclusion
Welcoming all abilities
Safety
Providing secure and nurturing spaces
Empowerment
Encouraging independence
Community
Promoting belonging and participation
Sustainability
Building long-term stability
Governance
Thabohlale is governed by a board of directors and trustees, supported by a centre manager, support staff and caregivers, and a network of volunteers. We work with professional service providers covering accounting, legal advice, compliance, and health and safety.
The Inclusive Café
Our signature project will be a café operated with support by young adults with disabilities, offering coffee, tea, and baked goods to the local community.
It will provide customer service training, work experience, and a sustainable income stream for the centre — and create a welcoming public space where the community can meet, connect, and see inclusion in action.