Free State sergeant honored at Women changing the World SA awards
This prestigious award recognises women from rural, remote and regional areas who have demonstrated exceptional leadership.
The Women Changing the World South Africa Awards honor exceptional women who are transforming communities, industries, and futures across South Africa. The awards form part of the global Women Changing The World Awards, which celebrates inspiring women and organisations, making a meaningful and positive impact across the world.
The awards ceremony, held in North Riding, Johannesburg, on Friday, March 28, brought together outstanding women from various sectors, including leadership, community development, education, sustainability, and social impact.
Among those honored was Former National Laureate, Sergeant Thato Mothamane from the Free State, who achieved 1st Place in the Women Changing the World in Rural and Regional Areas Impact Award.
This prestigious award recognises women from rural, remote and regional areas who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and achieved outstanding results in improving the lives of people, especially learners in schools across the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality.
Sergeant Mothamane was recognised for her ongoing work in youth crime prevention, school outreach programmes, mentorship initiative, and empowerment projects aimed at uplifting learners and strengthening communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Although Sergeant Mothamane was unable to attend the awards ceremony, she was attending the International Women’s Day celebration held in Mangaung Metro on the same day as the award ceremony. Her presence at the grassroots level reflects her dedication to empowering women and serving communities.
Sergeant Mothamane has officially received her award (trophy), which was delivered on 20 April 2026.
This achievement marks a proud milestone for the Free State province and highlights the impactful work being done to empower communities, prevent crime, and inspire young people.
Sergeant Mothamane’s recognition serves as an inspiration to women across South Africa, particularly those working in rural and regional areas, demonstrating that dedication, leadership, and compassion can create meaningful and lasting change.
