Development for Peace Education-DPE, in collaboration with Sisters of Holy Names-St Rose, gathered to commemorate the life and legacy of Sr. Veronica ‘Mapaseka Phafoli, the Brain Mother of DPE, on the 22nd May 2026, at St Rose, Peka. The commemoration started with the Holy Mass by Rev. Fr. Mosoeu.
Sr. Veronica dedicated her life to the service of education, peace, and the upliftment of marginalized communities in Lesotho. Echoing the same words, Mr. Sofonea Shale strongly highlighted that Sr. Veronica believed that peace begins when we treat each other with respect as persons with dignity, who can voice their opinion if allowed, and as thinking beings who know what they want, which is why the Sisters of Holy Names and their collaboration with DPE mattered so much. She helped create spaces where young people could learn without fear and grow into citizens who build peace in their communities.
Speaking at the commemoration, Dr Phohlo stated that Sr. Veronica lived the very heart of Development for Peace Education, and her work with the Sisters of Holy Names reminded them that peace education is not only about resolving conflict, but about creating spaces where every person feels respected and empowered.
In addition, Sr. Theresa Seeta, speaking on behalf of Sisters of Holy Names, mentioned Sr. Veronica as a very brilliant and patient colleague in their time, who had a dream and vision to grow DPE. They worked together in different schools and community programs, providing the same spirit they lived in their convent and classrooms.
The commemoration brought together DPE’s sister organization, the Transformation Resource Centre (TRC), Seliba Sa Boithuto, co-founded by Mr. Gerard Mathot and DPE; Mr. Sofonea Shale, DPE’s former Coordinator; the Sisters of Holy Names; the family of Phafoli and Thabisi; DPE staff and Executive Committee members.
