Mamelodi Skate Club founder Poelo Mofolo brings EduPark vision to life
Being resilient and knowing how never to give up eventually paid off for the founder of Mamelodi Skate Club, Poelo Mofolo, who is in the final stages of securing a lease from the government to build an EduPark in the township.
Mofolo almost gave up on his dream of building a skateboard park for young people after he was taken from pillar to post for five years while seeking empty land for his project.
He knocked on the door of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure after he was told the site he sought was under its jurisdiction.
This month, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson made good on his promise that the lease for EduPark is happening. Mofolo is expected to sign for it at the end of this month.
Mofolo’s vision is for EduPark to provide a safe, inclusive space where young minds can push their limits, discover new talents, and gain vocational skills needed to achieve their dreams and inspire a generation of new leaders through education and sports.
The plan is to build a skatepark, classrooms for after-school homework support, a computer centre, a mobile clinic, and a community garden for agricultural programmes.
EduPark will be developed in phases over the next few years, and the initial phase will focus on establishing a skatepark, as skateboarding has proven to be a healthy and engaging activity for young people.
“The skatepark will serve as an anchor facility, around which additional spaces, structures, and other facilities will be developed to offer a wide range of services and activities beneficial to the youth of Mamelodi and other community members,” he explains.
They are partnering with organisations that will bring their expertise and support that aligns with EduPark’s mission of creating a multipurpose centre, serving as a skills development hub for the youth and community.
He is also proud to be inducted as a member of Rotary E-Club of Southern Africa D9400 – a club that is part of a global network of individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in communities and beyond.
“I am feeling incredibly grateful for this milestone. We have come far as an organisation. We have had many challenges that we overcame. It is through these challenges that you realise how much you actually want to make the impossible possible.”
Mofolo says he has grown through this journey. “But nothing can prepare you for something of this magnitude. This project will be a game-changer for Mamelodi residents.
“EEduPark will enhance social and community infrastructure in Mamelodi. Startups like EduPark need more support in South Africa because they benefit township economies and create job opportunities for young people.”
According to Mofolo, townships like Mamelodi continue to be underserved when it comes to infrastructure that caters to the development of children and youth.
He nearly gave up on his dream of building the EduPark due to the many obstacles over the past five years.
But being a skateboarder himself, he has learned to get up when he falls. Mofolo says Minister Macpherson’s support has played a key role in the development of EduPark.
He has also been working with a foundation from Germany – the Hans-und-Gretel-Burkhardt-Stiftung. Burkhardt has been actively involved in Mamelodi since 2006 and has supported other local initiatives through financial contributions.
“Their willingness to continue to financially support the establishment of EduPark is extraordinary, and we are truly grateful for their support.”
Mofolo says the EduPark will contribute to creating a safer and healthier environment for children and youth, while serving as a progressive model for educational and social impact.
