Meet Lerato Manaka, the ex-convict who stands up against all odds to make a change that she wants to see by dedicating her life and time to empower communities. Lerato who is the CEO of the Modiehi Mongale Foundation is making use of her experiences behind bars to encourage individuals and organizations towards moral values of integrity and accountability. Lerato is an anti-crime activist who joins hands with the multi-forces to stand against gender-based violence and other social ills. In an exclusive interview with Limpopo Insider, the motivational speaker shared her experiences and motivation towards changing the quality of others’ lives.
How would you briefly describe life in prison with reference to your first exposure behind bars?
“Life in prison was a harsh awakening. My first exposure behind bars was filled with fear, confusion, and deep regret. I went from being someone who controlled her own time to being told when to eat, sleep, or even speak. The loss of freedom stripped me of everything I thought I knew about myself but in that dark place, I was forced to confront my choices and search for meaning. Prison became my mirror and, surprisingly, my classroom”.
The struggles and the stigma attached to ex-offenders—what are your experiences around them?
“The stigma doesn’t end when the sentence does. Society often forgets that we have paid for our crimes. I have been judged, overlooked for opportunities, and even had doors slammed in my face simply because of my past. However, what hurt most was how quickly people defined me by my mistakes, not my growth. With that said, I used those struggles as fuel to build something meaningful and to prove that people can change if given a second chance.”
You are making a positive impact in people’s lives; how do you manage to do that, especially after doing time?
“My turning point was realizing that my story could be a lifeline for someone else. I managed by staying rooted in purpose. I founded a foundation, began public speaking, and wrote my story not to gain sympathy but to offer hope. I constantly reminded myself that my past does not define me, but what I choose to do with it does. I surround myself with people who believe in my mission, and I stay committed to healing, service, and change.”
They say crime does not pay; what message do you have for youth in gangsterism and criminal activities?
“Crime might seem glamorous from the outside, but the pain it causes is never worth it. I have lived the consequences. The guilt, the time lost, the people hurt, and the damage to your own identity—the price is too high to pay. I want the youth to know you have value, you matter, and there are legal, fulfilling paths to success. Seek guidance, ask for help, and know that your environment does not have to define your future.”
To the ex-convicts, what ideas can you share with them in order to help change their lives for the better?
“Start with forgiveness; forgive yourself first. Then, rebuild with intention. Tap into your talents, educate yourself, and do not be afraid to start small. Surround yourself with people who see your worth. Create your own opportunities if no one gives you one. Most importantly, speak your truth because your story can change someone else’s. Remember: a second chance means nothing if you are not ready to run with it.”
Lerato’s activism spreads afar as she presently takes part in outreach programs run by community organizations and other institutions where she talks about topics that have an impact on the communities.
