Being a teenage mother is very demanding. It takes strength, faith, intelligence, patience, and family support. While other 16-year-olds were thinking about clothes, boys and parties, Omphemetse Mphahlele was thinking about the tiny human growing in her belly.
Also read: https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/2020/09/17/when-your-teen-daughter-is-pregnant/
Even though becoming a mother at the tender age of 17 was never part of her life plan, Omphemetse knew the only way out is through.
“My mother’s family lives in North West. So, each time my family and I went to visit I got to see a boy I liked. Well, we got to know each other, and needless to say we both got caught up in the moment the last time we visited,” she said.
“I have always been aware of the consequences, but in that moment I didn’t take it into consideration. It’s almost as if I thought it wouldn’t happen to me. I regret my decision because it changed my life completely. If I can just convince one teenager to think twice before engaging in sexual activity, I would be happy.”
As if the initial emotional turmoil and lack of support from the father weren’t enough, she would soon become the topic of discussion at her private school in Krugersdorp. Even though her teachers were supportive, Omphemetse recalls losing all of her friends due to the negativity around her pregnancy.
For Omphemetse the nine months hadn’t been easy as she has been battling with depression and anxiety. This combined with her school and pregnancy stress had led her onto a rather rocky road.
Also read: https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/2022/03/15/west-rand-police-launch-school-safety-talks/
However, the love and support from family once again conquered all and on January 2, the resilient teen gave birth to a healthy baby boy named Olwethu (Bokang).
“Although I love my baby boy to bits, I can’t help but feel restricted. I can no longer be the Omphemetse I was before as my youth and freedom have been taken away from me. All these feelings led to some horrible post-natal depression which isn’t fun to deal with while still having to attend and pass school,” she said.
“I regret the poor choices I made in the past, and that’s why I really want to make a success of our future. With the help of God and my family I am going to raise my baby boy and finish my matric. At this point I am doing it for him and no one else.”
Whenever Omphemetse feels like giving up, she just looks at her little miracle, and finds the strength to carry on. While the teen mom has had a lot of growing up to do these past four months, her son has already taught her a great deal about life.
“He taught me to love unconditionally, to be humble, to work hard and never give up. I now know that it’s not over – it’s only just started. And that’s why I would like to encourage other teen moms never to give up. You never realise how strong you are until you conquer these mountains all on your own,” she said.
“Teen moms should know that their futures aren’t gone – only delayed. While it’s not easy, they should learn how to depend on themselves. They should be able to provide a safe environment for their baby.”
With this Omphemetse hopes to encourage and inspire other teen moms who find themselves in similar situations. If you or someone you know is a teen mom and in need of someone to talk to, they can feel free to contact Omphemetse on 074 743 3495 or send an email to atliephimie@gmail.com.
