By Mohau Seleka
Austin Mothapo’s path from Ga-Mothapo Bochabelo to the University of Limpopo highlights his resilience, determination, and dedication to community. Overcoming setbacks, he made the most of his university experience, advancing academically while uplifting his peers—an inspiring example for those juggling studies, leadership, and personal growth
Austin Mothapo, capturing life’s moments, one frame at a time. Photo: Supplied
Growing up on the dusty roads of Ga-Mothapo Bochabelo, Austin Mothapo started his education at Mmanthe Primary School and completed Grade 12 at Madipoane Secondary in 2017. Though he dreamed of continuing immediately, unforeseen circumstances led to a two-year gap before he enrolled at the University of Limpopo in 2020 to study Media Studies. “Those years taught me patience,” he reflects. “I knew I would reach my goals, even if delayed.”
In his first year, Austin joined the Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFsc) to support fellow students. His commitment soon earned him a role on the university’s central housing committee, focusing on student safety, particularly for those off-campus. “I felt responsible for ensuring every student was safe, especially at night. It was challenging, but it meant everything to me,” he says. By 2021, his leadership led to his role as treasurer for the School of Languages and Communications, where he helped students with NSFAS and allowance issues.
Austin once dreamed of teaching but found a new passion in media, inspired by his involvement with Keyaka Magazine and mentorship from Mr. Moreroa in marketing and communications. “Mr. Moreroa believed in me before I did,” he recalls, crediting him with sparking his path in photojournalism.
Event photography became his passion, combining his love for capturing moments and storytelling. Experiences like working as a videographer at the university’s fashion show deepened his commitment to the craft. Austin credits the University of Limpopo’s marketing team for supporting his growth. “They’re more than a team; they’re like family, helping me believe in my potential,” he shares.
Constructive criticism greatly shaped Austin’s growth. “I learned early to take criticism positively; if you don’t, you’re only holding yourself back,” he says, noting how this skill helped him thrive in media
Looking ahead, he hopes to become a swimming coach and lifeguard in the short term, and eventually to see himself as the director of a top telenovela or as a marketing director at a leading institution. “These dreams are big, but with dedication and passion, they’re within reach,” he says confidently.
As the first in his family to graduate, Austin remains grateful. “I’m grateful for every opportunity and every person who believed in me. This is just the beginning,” he concludes.
