The North-West University (NWU) is celebrating one of its own, Lesego Molema, a final-year BSc Honours degree student in Animal Science at the Mahikeng Campus.

Molema has, for the second consecutive year, been nominated for the prestigious Student of the Year Award at the South African Agricultural Awards, scheduled to take place on October 16. For the young man whose journey began in Jouberton Ext 21 in Klerksdorp, the nomination represents ambition, resilience, service and determination.

“Being nominated for a second consecutive year speaks to consistency, commitment and a sustained pursuit of excellence,” Molema says.

From Jouberton to the lecture halls and national recognition, Molema’s journey is a powerful reminder that where one begins does not determine where one ends. While pursuing his BSc Honours degree in Animal Science, Molema has distinguished himself not only academically but also as a committed student leader.

During the 2025/26 student leadership term, he served as the SCC Fundraising and RAG officer and the SRC Societies and International Students officer. His journey demonstrates that leadership is ultimately about impact.

Molema placed student welfare and opportunity creation at the centre of his leadership. One of his most significant contributions was his ability to build relationships and secure partnerships that directly benefited students.

Through his fundraising and stakeholder engagement efforts, he secured support from the Valor Motor Group towards the Return of Freshers initiative and the feeding of first-year students. His commitment to student welfare was particularly evident during the Registration and Orientation period. Through support secured from Blue Ribbon and Albany, approximately 1 389 first-year students benefited from meals.

For many students entering university for the first time, a meal may appear to be a simple gesture. But for a young person beginning a new and often challenging chapter of life, such support can mean dignity.
Molema also contributed towards securing sponsorship for Inter-Res activities, helping to strengthen student engagement and participation in campus life.

The nomination is also a proud moment for the NWU and its Mahikeng Campus. For the NWU, his nomination contributes to the growing reputation for developing graduates capable of making an impact beyond the lecture hall.

As an Animal Science student, Molema is preparing to enter a sector that remains critical to food security, agricultural development and economic growth in South Africa. His academic training, combined with his leadership experience and ability to engage stakeholders, has helped shape him into a well-rounded young professional.

Molema stands as an example to young people who may believe that their circumstances define the limits of their ambitions. He is representing more than himself. He represents the aspirations of young people and the commitment of the NWU.

His is a story of an emerging agricultural professional who continues to push beyond every boundary placed before him.