A King Constantine Medal Story: Oarabile Legwale
Oarabile Legwale from Tiger Kloof Educational Institution, South Africa, was awarded the King Constantine Medal for his determination and leadership in empowering young girls through the HER Project. Despite initial doubt and challenges, Oarabile persevered to create lasting impact in his school and community.
“Growing up in a challenging household, I learned early that life requires resilience. My mother worked tirelessly as a Social Development Service Practitioner, and watching her lead community projects inspired me deeply. She showed me that no matter how little you have, you can still give—and that it is in giving that we truly receive.”
“When I came to the hostel in Grade 9, I felt a calling to start a sanitary pad campaign for girls in need. When I shared the idea with friends, some laughed and told me to focus on something “masculine.” But I believed in the vision, and I held onto it.”
“Before Round Square, I did not see myself as a leader. I spent more time trying to impress friends than discovering who I truly was. Joining the HER Campaign in Grade 11 changed that. I threw myself into the project, and by the end of the year, I was entrusted to lead it. That responsibility marked a turning point: I learned to plan, organise, and empower others while keeping the mission at the centre.”
“There were moments when the work felt overwhelming—coordinating drives, managing volunteers, and ensuring the girls received support. But I kept going, remembering why I started, who I was representing, and the difference this project could make. That perseverance led to my selection for the Germany Exchange Programme, and ultimately to being recognised with the King Constantine Medal.”
“Looking back, my journey from a boy unsure of his worth to a young man leading meaningful change has been shaped by persistence, humility, and focus. The Medal is a reminder that leadership begins with service and that staying committed, even when others doubt you or the challenges feel too great, allows real impact to grow.”
Four Steps to Take Action, Inspired by Oarabile
1. Hold onto your vision, even when others doubt you.
Believe in what matters, and keep pushing forward. Tenacity means staying committed when the path feels hard or others don’t understand your idea.
2. Start small, but commit fully.
Even a small campaign or project can grow into something meaningful. Consistency and dedication matter more than the size of the first step.
3. Embrace challenges as part of the process.
Obstacles are inevitable. Use them to refine your approach, develop new skills, and strengthen your purpose. Perseverance is built in these moments.
4. Empower others and share responsibility.
Leadership is not about doing everything alone. Bring others on board, share tasks, and work together to create sustainable impact. Tenacity grows when a vision becomes collective.