Reading equals to knowledge
Busisiwe uses a book drive as a catalyst to create a community of readers.
Being a teacher by profession, the reigning Miss Soweto, Busisiwe Mmotla said that she wants to encourage the spirit of reading among young people in her community and the establishment of a book drive will serve as a catalyst to achieve this goal.
“The inspiration of the book drive comes from the stereotype that says ‘If you want to hide money from a black person, hide it in a book’. I want to inspire young people from Soweto to read more so that they can be able to develop their cognitive skills.
“Reading opens up a door to new possibilities, it improves one’s vocabulary and the more you read the more you gain confidence,” said Mmotla.
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The book drive has already started and according to Mmotla, they are receiving a lot of support. Those who would like to donate, are welcome.
“We are looking for story books and novels that are in good condition. We are currently looking towards collecting 300+ books to donate to two of the schools around Emdeni.
“I have realised that most black families don’t know the importance of reading, one of the main reasons being, the inability to afford novels, so the drive will be helpful,” she said.
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Mmotla said that her ultimate goal is to have a book club with the hope of building a community of readers and her other goals include hosting a soccer tournament. She will be working closely with charities around Soweto.
This is part of her journey and a lot is expected from her as her journey continues.
“My journey as Miss Soweto has been so beautiful, it has been a journey of self-knowledge and growth and with this title, I was received very well by Soweto,” Mmotla said.
“My life has changed for better, this opportunity has allowed me to touch even more lives. Through this title I have learned to be an ambassador and represent White Star and the Miss Soweto title with dignity,” she added.
Mmotla said that White Star has been very supportive and has assisted her since the beginning of her reign.
“One of the most beautiful moments for me was the White Star photoshoot. It was a beautiful experience because some people can only dream of being a star but I was given the opportunity to be one,” she said.
After her crowning, she had two campaigns, ‘Give a Gift’, where she shared Christmas lunch with a charity in Zola and ‘A family day’ where she shared a day with kids from her neighbourhood in Emdeni.
“The love I have received has been amazing,” she concluded.
