Earlier this year, a remarkable event took place, celebrating the appointment of Lebo Mokgabudi as a member of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI) board. Organized under the stewardship of Mothathe Sewelo, the Program Director for the day, the gathering honored Mokgabudi’s achievements and highlighted the growing impact of women in leadership, both in South Africa and globally.
The event was more than just a celebration of individual success—it was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating spaces for inclusive leadership and the responsibility of using one’s influence to drive meaningful change.
Honoring Lebo Mokgabudi: A Catalyst for Change
The day’s highlight was the celebration of Lebo Mokgabudi and her appointment to the UNPRI board. Mokgabudi’s rise to this prestigious position serves as a testament to her hard work, dedication, and deep-rooted faith. A notable point in the celebration was the recognition of her identity as a “Jesus girl”—a woman whose faith has guided her journey, demonstrating that spirituality and professional success can harmoniously coexist.
Mokgabudi, who holds an MBA, has long been an advocate for responsible investment and sustainable development. Her appointment to the UNPRI board is a recognition of her commitment to these values, as she now takes her place on the global stage. The significance of her journey was emphasized by Mothathe Sewelo, who praised her as not just a leader but a catalyst for change. “Jesus girls,” he remarked, “don’t only get the corner office, they go on to serve on global stages.”
A Day of Reflection and Inspiration
Attendees were graced by the presence of iconic women in business and leadership, such as Zanele Mbeki, Futhi Mtoba, Tryphosa Ramano, Nana Phiri, and Boitumelo Mosako. These leaders, each of whom has shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields, shared insights on leadership, mentorship, and the journey of empowering others.
Mothathe Sewelo, who chaired the event, expressed how honored he felt to be in the company of such trailblazing women. He highlighted the importance of creating platforms for the youth to engage with experienced leaders, noting that these moments offer invaluable lessons and inspiration for future leaders. In his own words, “We need to be leaders who embrace change and prioritize people.”
Powerful Voices and Wisdom Shared
Another highlight of the day was the keynote address by Lincoln Mali, who urged those present to be changemakers at the grassroots level. His words resonated deeply with the audience, calling for leadership that not only focuses on high-level achievements but also engages with communities and prioritizes people.
The event fostered a sense of togetherness, growth, and community, where each leader emphasized the importance of supporting one another. In particular, Tryphosa Ramano was recognized for her role in providing a “seat at the table” for young leaders, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to mentoring the next generation of business trailblazers.
A Beacon of Hope and Gratitude
As the event came to a close, Mothathe Sewelo extended heartfelt thanks to all the remarkable individuals who contributed to its success. His appreciation for Tryphosa Ramano, in particular, highlighted the role of established leaders in creating opportunities for the youth. Sewelo’s words reflected a genuine sense of gratitude for the mentorship and wisdom shared by these pioneering women, recognizing that their generosity provides a beacon of hope for the future.
The event underscored the power of community—one that supports growth, celebrates success, and encourages leaders to lift others as they rise. The celebration of Lebo Mokgabudi’s appointment was not just a moment of personal achievement but a shared victory for all women breaking barriers and leading with purpose.
As the gathering ended, it left behind a legacy of inspiration and a call to action: to be leaders who embrace change, foster inclusion, and lead with both heart and purpose.
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About the Key Figures:
- Lebo Mokgabudi – UNPRI Board Member, advocate for responsible investment and sustainable development.
- Mothathe Sewelo – Head of NBFI Trade & IB Sales, Non-Executive Director, and Chairperson of “A Seat at the Table.”
This event celebrated more than individual milestones—it was a collective moment of reflection on the importance of leadership, community, and inclusivity in shaping a better future for all.
