Lihle’s going places fast
THEMBELIHLE “Lihle” Nkosi, 20, is redefining the expression “mover and shaker”. The law student, who is completing her degree at Varsity College, has an impressive list of accolades under her belt.
Part of the Youth Parliament on Power FM, she has been a TV presenter on Kasi Vibes, Ritevac TV, CMTV and the SA Music Awards (Sama) Red Carpet 2017 as well as a guest presenter on SABC shows Selimathunzi and YOTV.
In addition, she is a model for the Alushi agency and owns two businesses.
While most 20-year-olds are living for the next party, Nkosi is blazing a trail through the realm of entrepreneurship.
“Educated, employed and engaged young people have the power to solve the world’s toughest problems,” she says.
Born in Mpumalanga, Nkosi attended Uplands College. Her drive and tenacity stemmed from a desire to be financially independent and make a difference in the world.
She co-owns R&L Productions, a youth empowerment and events company, with business partner Retha Lethoko. They train young people for the entertainment industry.
They encourage youth involvement by offering resources, opportunities and a networking platform.
The business held its first event in October at The World of Yamaha.
Her other business is a non-profit organisation called Reform Africa Group, which educates the youth on ways to become healthy, productive and engaged citizens, with KZN one of her biggest markets.
“Every young person deserves the opportunity to realise his or her full potential. The Reform Africa programmes are catalysts for change that help the youth learn, work, and lead. We believe in creating a difference by enriching the lives of young people.”
Nkosi believes in a balance of work and play. With a passion for blogging, creative writing and meditation, she remains grounded despite her fast-paced life.
Her business mindset belies her age and she attributes her wisdom and motivation to the inspiration she draws from businesswomen such as Khanyi Dhlomo and Basetsana Kumalo.
“Hard work outweighs talent and intelligence and is necessary if you want to succeed. This not only means working hard when things are going well, but working harder when things are not. It means taking calculated risks and sticking to them, no matter how challenging they are. I’ve watched many businesswomen who proved they could wear many hats and that inspires me.”
Empowerment, to her, is the solution that will shape the future. With June Youth Month and South Africa having commemorated Youth Day, Nkosi shares what the day means to her as a millennial.
“June 16 represents a turning point for South Africa and is a very important day to me. I have to show appreciation for the lives lost in order for me to be where I am today. Our fallen heroes did not die in vain, which is why I am so passionate about making a difference.
“We have an opportunity now to be a part of the solution, to empower the youth and shape what life will be like in 2030. This is why I aim to host events that might have a different focus and target but all have an impact,” she said.
With a plan to change R&L Productions into a modelling and acting agency, Nkosi hopes to mentor and help local talent.
She also wants to establish 10 Reform Africa branches throughout Africa within the next five years.
To contact Nkosi, e-mail rlproductionsa@gmail.com