TSHWANE TALKS SPEAKS TO FELICIA SMITH OF THE REJECTED CORNERSTONE NPC

Felicia Smith ( Founder of The Rejected Cornerstone Non-Profit Company)

1. Where were you born and which primary schools and high school did you attend?

I was born in Johannesburg. I attended Florida Primary School in Eldorado Park and later Edenvale Hoërskool. A significant part of my journey was being the first non-white learner to attend Edenvale Hoërskool after the apartheid era, an experience that taught me resilience and the importance of embracing diversity.

2. How would you describe your upbringing?

I would describe my upbringing as humble and grounded. It taught me the value of hard work, perseverance and compassion. I learned early on that challenges can either define you or inspire you to become stronger, and I chose to use my experiences to motivate and uplift others.

3. What are your academic qualifications?

I hold a Diploma in Business.

4. What community projects are you involved in at the moment?

I have never limited myself to one specific community project. I serve wherever there is a need, whether it involves addressing school bullying, assisting with community challenges, mentoring young people or providing counselling and support to families. Recently, I registered a Non-Profit Company (NPC) with the aim of focusing on children’s education, aftercare programmes and youth development initiatives.

5. Why are you passionate about the development of your community?

Growing up, I often felt that all a person sometimes needs is someone willing to listen and show they care. I remember wishing there was that one person who would reach out and offer support when it was needed most. Today, I strive to be that person for others. I believe that by helping individuals, we strengthen families and ultimately build stronger communities.

6. Can one say you are also involved in politics? Please explain.

Yes. I am actively involved in politics as a member of the Patriotic Alliance, where I serve on the regional structure. My involvement in politics has always been driven by my commitment to community service. I believe political leadership should be about being accessible to people, understanding their challenges and working towards practical solutions that improve lives.

7. What are your principles in life? What is it that you believe in?

The principle that guides me most is empathy. I believe in treating people with kindness, understanding and respect. Everyone is facing challenges that we may not always see, and sometimes the greatest difference we can make is simply to care enough to listen and help where we can.

8. Are you satisfied with the education system in South Africa from preschool right until high school, or do you believe government must make some changes?

I believe there is significant room for improvement. From preschool through to Grade 12, many changes are needed to ensure every child has access to quality education, adequate resources and a supportive learning environment. Education should equip young people not only academically, but also with the life skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

9. Which awards have you won in your career as a nation-builder?

I have not received any formal awards, but that has never been my motivation. When your heart is truly for the people, the greatest reward is knowing that you have made a positive impact in someone’s life. My fulfilment comes from seeing people overcome challenges and knowing they have someone they can turn to when they need assistance.

10. What can the government do to make life better for South African women?

Government can do more to create opportunities for women through education, entrepreneurship support, skills development and job creation. There should also be stronger measures to combat gender-based violence and ensure that women feel safe in their homes, workplaces and communities. Empowering women economically and socially is critical to the growth and wellbeing of our country.

11. What is your advice to young women out there who have hopes of being successful in life?

Your past does not define your future. Never allow your circumstances to determine your worth or your potential. The world does not owe you anything, so work hard, remain focused, believe in yourself and pursue your goals with determination. Success comes to those who are prepared to keep moving forward, even when faced with obstacles.