My Journey
From Tembisa & Alex
to the Classroom
Siyabulela Mokebe was born in Tembisa but grew up in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg — a community that shaped everything about who he is. He attended school in Alexandra from his earliest years all the way through to matric, where he graduated as the top learner at Minerva High School and placed in the top 3 of all Grade 12 learners across Alexandra.
But the road there was anything but easy. In 2008, he lost his mother. In 2009, his father followed. Orphaned before the age of 14, the family found a way to hold together: his younger siblings went to stay with their aunt, while Siyabulela and his elder brother remained in their parents' home — two young men keeping the family name standing, keeping the lights on, and refusing to let grief become an ending.
"My brother and I stayed in our parents' place. We had to make sure our siblings were okay — and still, we had to study. Giving up was never an option."
That same drive took him to the University of the Witwatersrand, where he graduated Cum Laude. In 2015, he co-founded Tamanna4Change — initially offering free lessons across almost all FET subjects to high school learners in Alexandra. By 2017, the initiative had sharpened its focus to Mathematics, Physical Science, and Accounting, run alongside colleagues who were themselves top academic achievers from schools across the township.
His story has drawn national attention. He has appeared on both eNCA and SABC — where he gave a television interview about his autobiography, Tamanna for Change — bringing the voice of Alexandra to audiences across South Africa. Today he teaches at Grantley High School, where he specialises in supported and inclusive learning, bringing the same relentless belief in every learner's potential that carried him through his own most difficult years.
Born in Tembisa, raised in Alexandra
Grew up in Alexandra Township and attended school there from the very beginning of his education.
Lost his mother
The first of two devastating losses. The family rallied — younger siblings moved to their aunt, while Siyabulela and his brother stayed on in their parents' home.
Lost his father
Orphaned before the age of 14. He and his brother held the household together — studying, working, and ensuring their siblings remained cared for.
Top learner at Minerva High School
Graduated as the best student in his school and placed in the top 3 of all Grade 12 learners across Alexandra Township.
Co-founded Tamanna4Change
Launched free lessons for high school learners across Alexandra, initially covering almost all FET subjects at high school level.
Tamanna4Change focuses on Maths, Science & Accounting
The programme sharpened its focus, led by top academic achievers from schools across Alex — offering structured, high-quality free tuition to township learners.
Published first book, SABC & eNCA appearances
Tamanna for Change published. Appeared on SABC for an interview about his autobiography, and on eNCA as a Maths & Science expert and education commentator.
Math Olympiad Coordinator at Hyde Park High
Led school-wide mathematical enrichment and competitive maths programmes, building a culture of academic excellence.
Nominated for National Teacher Awards — Minister's Special Award
During Teacher Month, Hyde Park High learners nominated Mr Mokebe for the NTA Minister's Special Award, describing him as patient, life-shaping, and transformative. Covered by Alex News.
Presenter at IVLST Exhibition — SACE, Durban
Invited by SACE to present at the IVLST Exhibition in Durban, showcasing how chemistry teachers can integrate virtual labs and simulations into classroom practice.
Appointed at Grantley High School
Joined as a specialist educator in supported & inclusive learning (LSEN), launching a school-wide Math Bee competition.