SEDIBENG – Rising star in the African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) in Sedibeng, Disebo Tlebere, will not rest until all in Sedibeng women are safe and have regained their rightful place in the region’s decision-making tables.

Tlebere (43), who is currently a Director in the Office of the Chief Whip in the Sedibeng District Municipality, was recently elected unopposed as the new Regional Secretary of the ANCWL in the Sedibeng Region at the Fifth Regional Conference held between 11 – 12 August 2023 at the Khaya Ibhubesi Conference Centre in Parys, Free State.

Lunga Cindi was voted in as the Chairperson, while Dimakatso Chocho is her deputy. Nomawethu Mgidi deputises as for Tlebere and Consy Mboweni is the new Treasurer.

Speaking following her election, Tlebere said her vision for Sedibeng ‘is one of a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable community. It is a place where residents have access to quality education, healthcare, and basic services, and where economic opportunities abound. It is a community that values social cohesion, diversity, and active citizen participation. By working together, we can turn this vision into a reality and create a brighter future for Sedibeng and its residents.’

“We have been given the privilege and duty to serve the organization and advocate for the women of Sedibeng. Alongside the rest of the executive committee, our primary goal is to come together, strengthen our unity, and revitalize our movement. We aspire to transform it into a powerful force that generates effective solutions to improve the lives of all individuals within our region,” Tlebere said.

“As the Regional Secretary, I am not only representing the women of Sedibeng but also serving as a voice for them within the larger political landscape. It means that I have the opportunity to influence policies and decisions that directly impact the lives of women in our region. It is a platform to advocate for gender equality, address women’s issues, and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society,” she added.

Tlebere’s previous experience includes working for the Gauteng Youth Commission and an non-executive biard member of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).

In her plan to foster a gender-sensitive environment, Tlebere aims to integrate gender considerations into organizational structures.

“My main goals and priorities revolve around advancing the interests of women, promoting gender equality, and contributing to the overall development and progress of the region,” she said.

Tlebere said she was grateful for the trust and confidence placed in her.

“We are fully committed to serving the interests of the people and working towards the betterment of our community. Transparency, accountability, and inclusivity will be the guiding principles of this leadership. Our primary goal is to serve the interests of the people and work towards the betterment of our community,” she said.

Tlebere, an avowed opponent of patriarchy, lashed out at men who continued to divide women’s unity for their own selfish interests: “Defending patriarchy perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and reinforces systemic inequalities. It denies women the opportunity to fully participate in decision-making processes and hinders their ability to contribute to the development and progress of the party. By challenging patriarchy, we are not only advocating for women’s rights, but also for a more just and equitable society for all.”