Hands of Life – Cycling

Dear Friends, Supporters and Fellow Journeyers,

ARTICLE 16

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported and encouraged my cycling journey from Lesotho to Viljoenskroon, South Africa.

When I previously shared the story of this ride, I received many positive messages, words of encouragement and expressions of support from many of you. Every message meant something to me. Some of you encouraged me to keep going, while others reminded me that the journey I am taking is bigger than the bicycle itself.

I would like to make a special mention of my old friend, whom I affectionately refer to as Ntate Matthew. Some years ago, Ntate Matthew donated a bicycle to me to support my work and my causes. That bicycle has remained one of my favourite possessions. More than simply being a bicycle, it reminds me of the beauty of people, the generosity that exists in the universe, and the impact that one person’s kindness can have on another person’s life.

Every time I ride, I am reminded that sometimes people support us long before they can see where the journey will eventually take us.

I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to my American friends who contributed towards this ride, my friends in the United Kingdom for your continued encouragement and support, and my parents for always standing behind me. To the people of South Africa, and especially the community of Viljoenskroon, thank you for the warm welcome, kindness, hospitality and wonderful treatment I received.

A LITTLE ABOUT VILJOENSKROON

For those who may not know, Viljoenskroon is a town in the Free State Province of South Africa. Its name is associated with Johannes Henricus Viljoen, a former owner of the farm where the town was established. The word “kroon” means “crown” in Afrikaans, and the name is linked to the name of the farm, Viljoenskroon.

Learning a little about the place I was visiting made the journey even more meaningful to me. I was not simply travelling towards a destination on a map. I was entering a community with its own history, people, struggles, dreams and stories.

I truly enjoyed spending time with the young people of Viljoenskroon. I have now returned safely to Lesotho, and I am looking forward to many more rides in the future. I am also looking forward to donating bicycles to the cycling club and continuing to support young cyclists who demonstrate dedication, discipline and commitment.

WHY THIS JOURNEY MATTERED TO ME

About a year ago, I saw three young cyclists who were cycling towards Durban. Their determination stayed with me. From that moment, I began thinking about how these young people could benefit from support, and I eventually decided that I wanted to bring them cycling gear.

This journey was therefore not simply about cycling from one place to another. It was about supporting young cyclists, building relationships across borders, sharing experiences and carrying messages that I believe can contribute to stronger communities.

One of those messages is FORGIVENESS.

I believe forgiveness has the power to transform individuals and communities. It can help people release resentment, rebuild relationships and create space for healing and new beginnings. I want to continue sharing this message wherever my bicycle takes me.

My bigger dream is to one day cycle across the entire African continent. The rides I am doing today are preparation and practice for that greater journey.

THE LESSONS FROM VILJOENSKROON

Through these experiences, I have seen something very clearly: WE, THE YOUTH, HAVE POWER.

I have seen it, and I have experienced it.

My time in Viljoenskroon also opened my eyes to how privileged I am in many ways. Seeing the living conditions of some families in the community deeply humbled me. I witnessed challenges such as limited access to water, with municipal trucks coming to assist communities. I also met young people living in shacks and facing both the cold and the heat, yet waking up the following day and preparing themselves to go to school, go to work or pursue whatever opportunity was available to them.

Their circumstances did not stop their determination.

I am deeply humbled by the strength, courage, resilience and dedication of the people I met in Viljoenskroon.

This journey has reminded me that when we see young people who are determined to make something of themselves, we should not simply watch from a distance. We should support them.

I will continue doing everything within my ability to support young people—not only in Lesotho or South Africa, but wherever I travel across Africa, especially when I meet young people who demonstrate dedication, discipline and a willingness to make a difference.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these stories with you. As our organisation continues to grow, we are working to improve how we communicate with our supporters, partners, friends and communities. I will therefore try to remain more connected with all of you and share these journeys, experiences and lessons more often.

Thank you once again to everyone who made this journey possible.

And thank you for reminding me, through your kindness, that sometimes a simple bicycle can carry much more than a person—it can carry a message, a friendship, a dream and the hope of a better Africa.

With gratitude,

Tshepo Nkhabu
Hands of Life Cycling
Lesotho