18/08/2026
Karabo Moname's Journey of Resilience and Independence Took Her From Law Graduate to New Beginnings
"Your disability should never define your future." That was one of the powerful messages that emerged from the latest episode of Our Side of the Story, a podcast hosted by Kayla Thabethe, a visually impaired student at the University of Pretoria, as she sat down with Karabo Moname, a 25-year-old LLB graduate and current student at SANCB Optima College.
For both young women, the conversation was more than an interview, it was a meeting of two inspiring journeys shaped by determination, resilience and the belief that blindness should never be a barrier to achieving one's dreams.
Kayla is no stranger to SANCB. Before beginning her studies at the University of Pretoria, she participated in SANCB's 2024 Winter School Programme while she was a learner at Prinshof School for the Partially Sighted and Blind, where she strengthened her academic skills and prepared for higher education.
Her guest, Karabo Moname, comes from Maserumule Village and was born with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare inherited eye condition that gradually causes vision loss.
Despite the challenges associated with the condition, Karabo remained determined to pursue her dream of becoming a lawyer and successfully completed her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) through the University of South Africa (UNISA).
During the conversation, Karabo spoke candidly about the realities of studying through distance learning without having basic computer skills at the time. "Studying online was incredibly challenging because I didn't have the computer skills I needed. I realised that if I wanted to compete in today's world, I had to equip myself with digital skills."
That realisation led her to SANCB Optima College, where she is currently enrolled in the Introduction to Computers programme, building the digital literacy skills needed to enhance her employability and independence.
The discussion explored more than education. Both women reflected on the daily realities of living with a visual impairment, from navigating inaccessible environments to confronting misconceptions about blindness.
Karabo shared how society often places limitations on blind and partially sighted people before they have the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
"People sometimes assume that because you're blind, you can't study, work, build relationships or live independently. Those assumptions are often the biggest barriers we have to overcome."
The pair also highlighted the difficulties many blind graduates face when trying to enter the job market, despite having the qualifications, determination and potential to succeed.
For Karabo, studying at Optima College has become an important chapter in her journey. Beyond computer training, she described the College as a place where students are empowered through rehabilitation, vocational training, social support and opportunities to participate in activities such as Goalball, helping them develop confidence, independence and lifelong friendships.
Kayla echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the importance of organisations such as SANCB in creating opportunities for blind and partially sighted young people to thrive.
The conversation concluded with a call for greater awareness, accessibility and inclusion within communities, educational institutions and workplaces.
Both women encouraged young people living with disabilities not to allow their circumstances to determine their future.
"Your disability is only one part of who you are. It should never limit your dreams or stop you from pursuing your goals," they encouraged.
Through platforms like Our Side of the Story, young advocates such as Kayla and Karabo are helping to change perceptions of blindness, one conversation at a time.
Their stories are a powerful reminder that with the right support, opportunities and determination, blind and partially sighted people can excel in education, contribute meaningfully to society and build successful, independent lives.
We are proud to have been part of both their journeys and remain committed to creating opportunities that empower blind and partially sighted South Africans to realise their full potential.
Watch the full episode and be inspired by two remarkable young women who are proving that ability, not disability, defines what is possible.
https://youtu.be/K2nCVeiF97U?si=zyUXOiZqR8cKKagd
