LIMPOPO – The installation of a senior traditional leader, Thovhele Livhuwani Ntshanduke Mutele, as a female senior traditional leader, has sent a powerful message: that women, too, can carry the calling of leadership from birth; that women, too, are chosen by ancestors to preserve culture and advance their people.

“May other royal families and traditional councils take note,” said the Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, “for the Mutele clan has made history”.

Ramathuba said they had gathered in Hamutele, united in celebration to formally install Vho Thovhele Livhuwani Ntshandule Mutele as the rightful leader of the Mutele people.

“From Thovhele Mutele Ndwammbi to Thovhele Tshitangoni Jack and Khosi Khorommbi John, the leadership of this clan has always reflected continuity and heritage. Today, that sacred baton passes not only from one generation to another, but from a history written largely by men to a future now being shaped by a powerful, capable, and visionary woman. It is pleasing to see a woman ascending to the highest traditional throne of the Mutele people. This is not only historic, but transformative. It marks the dawn of a new chapter where patriarchy gives way to progressive customs, where wisdom is no longer measured by gender, and where traditional leadership evolves without losing its soul,” said the premier.

According to her, Thovhele Livhuwani Ntshandule Mutele grew up as a princess, disciplined by royal expectations and guided by the Christian values instilled by her late parents, Khosi Mutele Khorommbi John and Nndafhiseni Emmah.

She pursued her studies, completing matric at Thengwe High School before graduating with an honours degree in social work with psychology from the University of Venda.

Her academic journey speaks volumes about her dedication, discipline and desire to serve humanity.

“She is a leader who understands the struggles of the people – not from a distance, but from a place of empathy and purpose. This combination of education, tradition and spirituality places her among a new generation of traditional leaders who are prepared not only to preserve heritage but also to confront modern challenges with intellectual courage. To all young traditional leaders seated here today, let her story be your inspiration. In this era, royal blood alone is no longer enough. Our people deserve leaders who are educated, ethical, development-driven, and globally aware. We encourage all future traditional leaders to further their studies so they can drive development in their communities,” she added.

Makhadzi Emmah Mudalahothe welcomed the installation of Thovhele Ntshandule Mutele as the senior female traditional leader of the Mutele communities and pledged her full support to her leadership.