Unsung heroes honoured for their selfless service in Soshanguve
Community members and leaders who have worked tirelessly, often without resources or public recognition, were acknowledged for their resilience, consistency and unwavering commitment to uplifting society.
For years, local community leaders have worked behind the scenes, fixing broken systems, advocating for the vulnerable, mentoring the youth and strengthening their neighbourhoods, without applause or expectation of reward.
Their selfless dedication was finally recognised when the Dr Marcia Matala Foundation honoured these unsung community heroes at the Halala Community Hall in Soshanguve.
The inaugural Community Builder of the Year event was not merely about trophies or titles, but about restoring dignity to those who consistently serve others.
Community members and leaders who have worked tirelessly – often without resources or public recognition – were acknowledged for their resilience, consistency and unwavering commitment to uplifting society.
In honour of the diverse cultures represented in the community, the ceremony opened with songs and prayers led by various cultural representatives.
The symbolic gestures reflected unity and collective gratitude for those who dedicate their lives to service.
Founder and CEO Dr Marcia Matala spoke candidly about the obstacles faced while seeking sponsorship.
“As the foundation, we felt a great sense of disappointment when we couldn’t get help from other possible sponsors,” she said.
Despite the setbacks, the foundation pressed forward, determined to shine a spotlight on those who serve selflessly.
Recognition was extended across several categories, including Service Delivery, GBV Advocacy and Social Justice, Safety and Security, Educational Purposes, and Community Veteran.
A particularly emotional moment was when the late Sibongile Malewa was honoured in the community veteran category.
Her family accepted the award on her behalf, a moving reminder that the impact of service continues even after one’s passing.
Beyond celebration, the event also served as a platform for reflection. Reverend Sakhile addressed deeper socio-economic realities affecting black communities.
“Fifty-million black people in South Africa rely and depend on 4.5 million people, and this is not good at all. We need to produce what we consume and consume what we produce. Until when are we going to be dependant in our own land?”
His words reinforced the importance of self-reliance and community-driven development, values embodied by the very individuals being recognised.
Malehlohonolo Malema, who received the Community Builder of the Year Award in Service Delivery, acknowledged the community of Soshanguve and, in particular, Ward 34 in Block K, for trusting her with their needs and their dreams of a better life.
“This recognition is not just for me, it belongs to the people I serve, the volunteers I work with, MelodiForum Afrika-Borwa, and the community that continues to believe in the power of unity and action,” she said.
“Service delivery is not about positions or titles. It is about showing up when roads are broken, when water doesn’t run, when lights go out, when a family sleeps on empty stomachs, when a child goes barefoot to school, when a child or community member has no clothes to cover their backs, and when people feel forgotten,” said Malema.
Malema said it is about listening to the voices on the ground and turning frustration into solutions, and hope into progress.
“You inspire me every day with your resilience, your patience, and your determination to build a better future for our children.
“I would also like to thank my children. They are my greatest motivation and my strongest reason to keep going, even on the hardest days.
“Your love, your understanding, and your patience when I am called away to serve others mean more to me than words can express.
“To Dr Marcia Matala Foundation, thank you for shining a light on grassroots work. You remind us that real change doesn’t always start in boardrooms; it starts in the streets, in homes, and in the hearts of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”
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