Actor plans to champion role of dads
ACTOR‚ filmmaker and television presenter Thapelo Mokoena is hoping for a national discussion about the role of fathers in modern society.
The idea came to him as he stood at Loftus Versfeld rugby stadium with his son as guests of a recent Father and Son Sleepout on the main field.
“I wish that this initiative could be more than just a Loftus stadium initiative,” Mokoena said.
“It’s a national discussion. Fathers are not present in their sons’ lives.”
Recalling a hit-and-run accident that nearly claimed his life two years ago, he said: “The one thing that stayed with me was that life is too short.
“My son was one then. I was travelling quite a bit.
“Imagine if my life had been lost in that accident?
“I now realise that life is all about love and happiness.
“For me it would be traumatic if I get to work so hard and not spend quality time with those I love.”
The sleepout‚ which involved camping in luxury tents on the main field at Loftus‚ was part of a rewards programme for a cellphone provider’s customers‚ and included interaction with players from the Blue Bulls.
Mokoena, whose brothers used to play rugby, said it was absolutely incredible.
“So much goodness comes out of giving a bit more than just a minute to things that really matter,” he said.
“This was one of those initiatives that allow fathers not to be that old-school traditional father who is just present in their children’s lives‚ but [one] who is actually a part of their everyday lives.
“It’s nice to create the conversation and the platform to focus on fathers and boys.
“We need to raise them to become champions‚ not just people who put the groceries on the table.” – TimesLIVE