As part of the annual Women’s Month programme, the Honourable Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) honours women across Gauteng who have made meaningful contributions towards empowering others in society.

Each year in August, the GPL’s Multi-Party Women’s Caucus leads the Annual Vita Basadi Awards – an initiative that recognises excellence among women in various fields of work, as well as acts of service to those in need.

Through these awards, the Speaker celebrates women of courage who continue to make a positive impact in their communities.

Celebrate the winners of the Vita Basadi Awards…

WINNER: Young Dignitary (Junior) Award

Andronique Hassin

Andronique Hassin, an inspiring 11-year-old from Lenasia South Johannesburg, embodies youth leadership and community service. Passionate about modelling, she not only shines on the runway but also mentors local girls, enhancing their confidence and skills, as demonstrated by one mentee winning a modelling competition. Additionally, Andronique supports and teaches young children while actively participating in local charity initiatives. Her balance of personal ambition and dedication to uplifting others highlights her exceptional character, making her a deserving nominee for community recognition.

WINNER: Young Dignitary (Senior) Award

Reanetse Lebeko

Seventeen-year-old Reanetše Lebeko is a dedicated Grade 11 learner at Moshate Secondary School, actively involved in the Representative Council of Learners and the ICT Committee. She excels academically, with impressive grades of 92% in Life Orientation, 76% in Consumer Studies, and 86% in Tourism, and has gained recognition as an award-winning public speaker. Reanetše is committed to enhancing her school community through her contributions to decision-making processes and initiatives benefitting her peers and the wider environment.

WINNER: Community Builder of the Year

Nozipho Nyawo

Nozipho Nyawo is wholly dedicated to education and leadership. Her exceptional work ethic is evident in her commitment to supporting teachers and learners, often working long hours. While she is nurturing and supportive, she also upholds discipline and professionalism, setting high standards that are deeply appreciated in the school community.

WINNER: COMMUNITY HEROINE AWARD

Robyn le Roux

Robyn Le Roux fully embodies the Community Heroine persona, having transformed her personal tragedy into community empowerment. As a founding member of Team Chayil, she has dedicated herself to uplifting vulnerable individuals through sustainable projects, including co-operatives and skills training for unemployed women. Despite facing immense personal challenges, including the loss of her sons, Robyn has excelled in her service, earning national recognition. Her work creates lasting change, enabling others to become entrepreneurs and making a significant impact on her community.

WINNER: OUTSTANDING CREATIVE AWARD

Busisiwe Mahoko

Miss Busisiwe Mahoko deserves the award for her transformative work as a publisher, author, and mentor. Through the Mahoko House, she empowers underserved youth, offering free publishing and coaching services since 2020. She has published 74 titles, helping young writers turn their stories into powerful narratives that foster confidence and opportunity. With a focus on healing and leadership, her impact reflects the Zulu philosophy of Ubuntu, making her a true heroine in our community.

WINNER: OUTSTANDING YOUTH PHILANTHROPIST

Thembisile Mahuwa

Thembisile Mahuwa is an influential young lawyer and leader dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through her legal expertise. With a 100%-win rate and significant pro bono work, she champions justice and dignity. She mentors over 500 young Zulu maidens, runs anti-bullying campaigns across South Africa, and collaborates with African Royal Kingdoms to promote human rights. Additionally, she addresses illiteracy in Soweto and works on youth crime prevention, earning multiple awards for her transformative impact and commitment to upliftment.

WINNER: GURADIAN AWARD

Constable Malehlohonolo Ignitia Motsamai

Constable Malehlohonolo Ignitia Motsamai serves in the Visible Policing unit at Sharpeville SAPS, dedicated to community safety and crime prevention. She previously acted as Coordinator for the Victim Friendly Facility, supporting victims of abuse with compassion and professionalism. Her commitment to justice is reflected in her pursuit of a Bachelor of Arts in Law, showcasing her passion for legal knowledge and ongoing personal and professional development while ensuring the protection and well-being of all citizens.

WINNER: UNSUNG LEGEND AWARD

Johanna Moloto

Ms. Johanna Moloto implemented the Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) model in five wards, helping communities recognize their strengths and utilize waste for sustainable projects. After a train-the-trainer program, she initiated vegetable gardens, which led to recognition from DRD mine. Through community engagement, waste sorting, and collaboration with local authorities, the project expanded, drawing interest from other wards. Supported by NGOs and government departments, the initiative enhanced food security and income, while promoting recycling through beading work.

WINNER: WOMAN OF HONOUR AWARD

Dr. Ruth Apostolov 

Dr. Ruth Apostolov is driven by a mission to restore dignity to girls and tackle systemic neglect. As the creator of the She PowHer menstrual cup, she is transforming menstrual health in Africa. Through her foundation, she has impacted over 30,000 girls and women, creating jobs, and promoting menstrual education. Recognized by the UN as a Special Envoy, she advocates for menstrual health as a crucial investment in human capital, emphasizing that dignity is a right for all.

SPEAKER’S SPECIAL AWARDS

Lifetime Achiever Award Recipient  

Abigail Kubeka

Abigail Kubeka’s unmatched performing prowess places her among the finest entertainers of our lifetime. A professional actress, film, television, and cabaret star, she has successfully held global audiences spellbound for decades.

At age 16, Miriam Makeba discovered and invited her to join the 60s top female singing group, The Skylarks. She also sang in the acclaimed King Kong musical and toured Europe. 

She has played countless lead roles in musicals, TV dramas, soapies, and films – and has performed across the world.

Her awards to date include ‘Women of our time in Africa’ (1987), ‘Star for a Star’ (1995), ‘The prestige Rapport’ (2000), ‘Soweto Top 100 people’ (2004), and President Thabo Mbeki’s ‘Ikamamanga in Silver Award’ (2006). 

Her story is one of humble beginnings to global history maker! She remains one of the versatile entertainers and performers of our lifetime.

Speaker’s Special Award Recipient

Dipuo Beauty Tlholoe

Known as Mama Dokie, Dipuo Tlholoe is a passionate community activist and mother to the community of Kagiso in Mogale City West Rand. 

In 2009 she opened an Early Childhood Development Center to look after children born to many teenage moms and rape victims in her community. 

After her son, a closeted drug user, died by suicide in 2016, she established a drug rehab center to help many youngsters abusing drugs and their mothers who need support. Her rehab center now employs the youth of Kagiso.

She has partnered with the Department of Correctional Services to help re-integrate parolees into communities. She later co-founded a Youth Music School to keep youngsters off the streets. 

She now employs many young people and helps them complete accredited Business & Computer certificate courses. She’s also part of the Health Department’s CFS program dealing with HIV & Aids work in communities.