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 while he was in Grade 7. In 2009, his father followed — while he was in Grade 8. 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."
He enrolled at the University of the Witwatersrand to study BSc Chemistry with Chemical Engineering. While studying, he co-founded a free tutoring organisation to help reduce the high school dropout rate in Alexandra — and in doing so, discovered a deep love for teaching. He switched to a Bachelor of Education and graduated Cum Laude.
In 2015, he co-founded Tamanna4Change — offering free lessons across almost all FET subjects to Alexandra learners. By 2017 the initiative focused on Mathematics, Physical Science, and Accounting. His story has drawn national attention — appearances on SABC, eNCA, and the Nhlivo Actually Podcast. Today he teaches at Grantley High School, specialising in supported and inclusive learning. The full story of his journey is told in his memoir Tamanna for Change.
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.
BSc Chemistry with Chemical Engineering → B.Ed
Enrolled at Wits for BSc Chemistry with Chemical Engineering. Co-founded a free tutoring org for Alex learners while studying — fell in love with teaching and switched to B.Ed. Graduated Cum Laude.
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.