Born in 1921, Motsoko's childhood was marked by the harsh realities of apartheid. Denied an education, she worked alongside her mother, selling beer and coal to support her family.
However, her thirst for knowledge burned within her, and in her mid-thirties, she joined a night school, where she diligently studied, defying the societal norms that deemed education off-limits for black women.
It was a brave act of defiance, a courageous step towards breaking down the walls of oppression.Motsoko's activism did not go unnoticed by the authorities. She was arrested on several occasions, imprisoned, and subjected to brutal torture. Yet, through it all, her spirit remained unbroken.
She became a symbol of hope and resilience for her fellow comrades, reminding them that even in the face of adversity, the fight for justice must continue.After the historic 1994 elections, which brought democracy to South Africa, Motsoko dedicated her life to serving her community. She founded an orphanage and worked tirelessly to empower women and children.
Her legacy lives on through her unwavering spirit, her commitment to education, and her unwavering belief in the power of human resilience.Motsoko Pheko, the indomitable daughter of Soweto, will forever be remembered as a beacon of hope, a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit, and an inspiration to all who strive for a more just and equitable world.