MAMELODI
Qhawekazi Mazaleni champions inclusive literacy through a meaningful reading session with autism learners
Mamelodi, Pretoria – In recognition of World Autism Acceptance Month this April, and on the eve of World Book Day (23 April), Miss South Africa 2025 and Empower Youth Africa (EYA) Ambassador, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, visited Tshegofatsong Special School in Mamelodi, Pretoria, where she conducted a dedicated book-reading session for learners in the school’s autism unit.
Mazaleni read from her isiXhosa children’s book, Amasele Amdaka, engaging learners through an interactive and sensory-aware storytelling approach tailored to the needs of the class. The session formed part of her ongoing literacy-led Empower Youth Africa engagements, with a specific focus on inclusive education and access to language-appropriate learning resources.
The visit holds particular significance, aligning both with World Autism Acceptance Month and World Book Day, reinforcing the role of books as tools for inclusion, communication, and understanding across diverse learning needs.
Mazaleni developed Amasele Amdaka during her final year of studying Speech Therapy, inspired by her experience working with a nine-year-old patient with cerebral palsy. That experience deepened her commitment to creating accessible, relatable, and affirming educational tools for children navigating communication challenges.
During the session, she brought the story to life through expressive reading, visual cues, and interactive engagement, creating a safe and encouraging environment for participation. Learners responded with enthusiasm, engaging with the story in ways that reflected both joy and connection.
“This book was created from a place of understanding and care,” said Mazaleni. “Every child deserves to see themselves in stories and to experience learning in a way that affirms who they are. Inclusion is not just awareness, it is acceptance.”
Beyond the reading, Mazaleni spent time engaging with educators and learners, highlighting the importance of representation, early intervention, and continued support for children with diverse learning needs.
Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology with a focus on Autism, Mazaleni continues to bridge her academic work with her advocacy, using her platform to promote inclusive education, literacy, and developmental support for neurodivergent children and their families.
Her literacy outreach forms a core part of her Empower Youth Africa mandate, which prioritises access to education, youth empowerment, and sustainable social impact. Through targeted school visits, storytelling, and advocacy, she continues to demonstrate how leadership can translate into meaningful, community-driven change.
For media and interview enquiries, please direct all requests to Nhlanhla@misssa.co.za or call 078 772 6485
ABOUT EMPOWER YOUTH AFRICA (EYA)
Empower Youth Africa (EYA) is Miss South Africa’s official social impact programme and the engine through which Miss South Africa translates influence into action. EYA focuses on empowering youth and women through youth unemployment, entrepreneurship and skills development, health and wellness (including mental well-being), access to education, civic engagement and leadership, Pan-African collaboration, and inclusive development.