Group 1 Renault The Glen presents new car to the inaugural Mrs Soweto
In a moment of empowerment, Group 1 Renault The Glen handed over the keys to a new Renault Kiger to the first winner of the Mrs Soweto Female Empowerment Programme.
It was an emotional and celebratory occasion on August 26 when George Stegmann, the dealer principal of Group 1 Renault The Glen, presented the keys of a new Renault Kiger to Mel Tlhapi, the first winner of the Mrs Soweto Female Empowerment Programme.
This historic moment came just weeks after Tlhapi (38) was crowned the inaugural Mrs Soweto during an event at the Soweto Theatre on August 12.
Tlhapi, who hails from Mofolo Central in Soweto, was honoured with the title and awarded the privilege of driving the Renault Kiger throughout her year-long reign.
Stegmann spoke passionately about the collaboration, highlighting the company’s dedication to supporting initiatives that uplifted and empowered women.
He said, “Empowering women is a cause that resonates deeply with us, and we believe this partnership will contribute significantly to fostering positive change and opportunities for women in Soweto.”
The journey to the Mrs Soweto crown was not just about winning a title but about personal growth and empowerment. The female empowerment programme spanned five months, during which the finalists underwent a transformative experience.
The participants learnt valuable skills and experiences, and as a token of their successful completion, each finalist received a certificate of completion at the handover event hosted by Group 1 Renault The Glen.
A glamorous grand finale
The Mrs Soweto finale at the Soweto Theatre was a star-studded affair that brought together celebrities, MMCs (Members of the Mayoral Committee), and judges. The judging panel included renowned figures such as singers Lloyd Cele and Judith Sephuma, Miss Soweto 2021, Ludina Ngwenya, and Mrs South Africa 2022, Jo Judnick-Wilson.
The event showcased the growth and transformation of the finalists.
Refiloe Motsei from Jozi FM and TV personality Thapelo Motloung hosted the event. They skillfully built anticipation until the big moment arrived – the announcement of the first Mrs Soweto.
Tlhapi’s name was met with cheers and applause as she embodied the programme’s goals and values. The first and second princess titles went to Fatima Moyane and Pertunia Malingisa, respectively.
A platform for empowerment and change
The female empowerment programme made headlines after its launch in March by local entrepreneurs, founder and CEO Dr Tshegofatso Mathe from Aspen Hills, and co-director Tandi Potgieter from Eye of Africa.
Mathe said, “The Mrs Soweto Female Empowerment Programme is about empowering women and making a difference in the community. The finalists have graduated from our empowerment programme.”
Aside from the Mrs Soweto title, the programme recognised the achievements and qualities of the finalists through special awards. Categories like Mrs Soweto influencer: Malefa Mel Tlhapi, Mrs Soweto humanitarian:
Kgomotso Dlamini, Mrs Soweto charity: Kefilwe Luczinski, Mrs Soweto entrepreneur: Fatima Moyane, Mrs Soweto personality: Bridgette Matjuda and Mrs Soweto public choice: Motsilisi Goqwana celebrated excellence, compassion, and leadership.
The first Mrs Soweto will wear an original Jenna Clifford tiara to formal events.
A circle of support
Signa Trust sponsored a three-year university bursary that included accommodation, a stipend and a computer for a beneficiary of Mrs Soweto’s choice.
The empowerment programme’s success was made by the support of many sponsors and partners, Group 1 Renault The Glen, Jenna Clifford, DC.One, iFearless, Signa Trust, Joburg Tourism, L’Oreal, Gold Reef City, Dimanzi Perfumes, OBA Group, Throbtek, Universal Kitchens, Versus Paint, Soweto Tourism, Maponya Mall, Zaza Legacy Wines, MG Attorneys, Raya Studios, Khoi Tech, Whitley Neil, City Sightseeing, Soweto Towers, Tshiora, Soweto TV and SOJO Business Tourism, Lamelle Research Laboratories, Kunene Makopo Risk Solutions, Naledi Inhlanganiso, Nevrodsai Acctax Solutions, PMP Germ Guard, NST solutions, Just Badela, and Bio Oil.
The impact of the Mrs Soweto Female Empowerment Programme extends beyond personal empowerment. The programme’s proceeds contribute to the Baby Thabo Thsepo Mathe Cares Foundation, which provides care packages to needy mothers, particularly those with babies requiring surgical care. This commitment to social responsibility and community support added another layer of significance to the Mrs Soweto initiative.
