Sometimes, it only takes one conversation to change the direction of your life.

That belief is what inspired businesswoman and philanthropist Margaret Hirsch to launch On The Move With Margaret, a podcast dedicated to having honest conversations with women who are making an impact in the community.

Known for both her thriving business career and her passion for giving back through various charity initiatives, Hirsch launched the platform to spotlight women who uplift others, advocate for the vulnerable and remind us of the power of meaningful relationships.

Read more: Hirsch’s cheers on Mrs South Africa at emotional send-off to Mrs World

Hirsch sat down with Tshego Gaelae on February 11, who has just returned from Los Angeles after representing South Africa at Mrs World.

The conversation explored Gaelae’s journey, her personal growth, giving back, and the moments that pushed her to step beyond her comfort zone, including the unexpected decision that changed everything.

At the time, Gaelae says she was craving change and change she got. “I was always venting to my friend about how frustrated I was. I wanted to network with new people, tap into a business side of myself and be surrounded by people who are solid in what they do so I could grow.”

That’s when her friend dared her to enter Mrs South Africa. “I thought, what do I know about pageantry? But I went on a dare, and I allowed myself to keep an open heart and an open mind. I let the journey take me where it needed to take me.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Tshego Gaelae once dreamed of becoming an investigative journalist, before finding her way into law, driven by a desire to fight for justice and give a voice to those who didn’t have one. But it was a simple dare from a friend that eventually led her into pageantry, a journey that took her all the way to representing South Africa at Mrs World. Fresh from Los Angeles, Gaelae sits down with businesswoman and philanthropist Margaret Hirsch on On The Move With Margaret to reflect on the twists, turns, and courage that shaped her path. Video: Ditiro Masuku #Fourways #Hirschs ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Little did she know that the challenge would soon become a life-changing experience that eventually led her to the global stage.

“At that point, I had no idea about me ever winning a pageant, let alone a global one. It’s still incredible.” Long before crowns and international platforms, Gaelae’s story was shaped by connection. She met her husband through the Mzansi Youth Choir, where they were both members.

Also read: Hirsch’s Fourways brings holiday magic to children in need with gingerbread decorating sessions

“When I first met him, I thought he was just too smart on another level. I didn’t think he’d be interested in me, so I thought maybe we could just be friends.”

Two years later, feelings grew, and in 2008, their relationship began. Today, they share a life with their energetic young son. “He’s very busy, always on the move, and always making noise. I always know something is wrong when the house is quiet and he’s home.”

Entering pageantry as something of an outsider, Gaelae surprised even herself as her journey unfolded. Hirsch said she remembers the moment as if it happened yesterday.

“I’ll never forget that look on your face; it was a total surprise.” Hirsch has always been an advocate for women on the move because she herself was able to make it out by being bold.
She now gives back to the community not only through talks but also with action. Just recently, Hirsch’s made food donations to an organisation in Fourways. Many of these events are yet to come.

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