Calvin Kamogelo Mogajane
Nominee's Province:
Gauteng
Age:
27
Project Name/Description:
Macaliland Productions
Calvin Kamogelo Mogajane has been blind since birth due to glaucoma. Instead of being limited by his disability, he’s built a strong voice in South African literature, media, and advocacy. A writer, radio presenter, and motivational speaker, Calvin is known for using his story to uplift others. He started writing at 14, supported by his fully sighted twin brother, Edwin. Calvin would write in braille while Edwin transcribed his work into print. Together, they published two Sepedi books: Sebatakgomo (2013) and Mpepumpepu (2014). In 2023, Calvin released his third book, Strong Woman, written in English and self-published to reach a wider audience. It explores the lives of women in polygamous households and was inspired by his mother’s strength. The book touches on patriarchy, gender-based violence, and forgiveness. It was approved by the Gauteng Department of Education for school libraries and received strong support from the disability community. He also founded Macaliland Productions and created a YouTube series, It Takes a Strong Woman to Forgive, offering survivors a platform to share their stories. On TUT FM 96.2, Calvin hosts The Sunday Breeze Show, which blends music with cultural education. He’s also a jazz pianist and playwright, with four staged plays to his name. Calvin has received awards from the Gauteng Premier’s Office and national arts bodies. In 2023, he spoke at a disability inclusion event in Nairobi and is set to return in 2024. He is currently working on his fourth book and a new show for Moja Love.
