Rethabile Pitso
PHILANTHROPIST, ’Mamotake “LadyM” Matekane, has received an International Leadership Award from the United Nations in recognition of her work in youth, women and leadership programmes through her role at the Waterlight Save Initiative (WSI).
The award was presented last Tuesday during an event held alongside the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York, United States.
Ms Matekane, who is also the daughter-in-law of Prime Minister Sam Matekane, joined WSI less than a year ago as Global Ambassador and Vice President of the Advisory Board.
WSI is a non-governmental organisation focused on community development, environmental sustainability and social welfare, working to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organisation also holds consultative status with the UN, granting it access to key global forums such as the CSW.
In her ambassadorial role, Ms Matekane is tasked with advancing the SDGs, particularly in the areas of innovation, healthcare, education, agriculture and livelihoods. Her responsibilities also include promoting women and youth empowerment, strengthening global partnerships and mobilising resources to address poverty, climate resilience and social inequality across Africa.
Although she said the award came as a surprise, Ms Matekane noted that it reflects years of dedicated work.
“For many years, I have worked with different organisations globally to improve the lives of youth, women and marginalised groups by empowering them, giving them a voice and equipping them with skills to succeed independently,” Ms Matekane said.
“My work spans organisations such as APSS, GEF and now WSI. I have been involved in mentorship programmes and advocacy for those who are often unheard. I understand the privilege of being in rooms where others cannot be, and I use that platform to amplify grassroots challenges so they can be effectively addressed.
“I believe this recognition from the United Nations is motivation to continue pushing forward. I did not see it coming, but I am deeply honoured.”
Since embarking on her philanthropic journey, Ms Matekane said mental health and women-led households have remained central to her work.
“I realised early on that mental health issues are often overlooked, especially among young people, due to stigma. Women and youth carry significant burdens, with expectations to succeed despite difficult circumstances. Women heading households are particularly vulnerable,” she said.
Through mentorship and her Lady M Foundation, she has supported women and young people in addressing mental health challenges. The foundation has also assisted victims of human trafficking, particularly children exploited by relatives due to poverty.
“Their underprivileged backgrounds make them vulnerable to exploitation or neglect by society. Taking these grassroots issues to global platforms like the United Nations is a responsibility I do not take lightly. It is an opportunity to speak for those who have no voice.”
Ms Matekane also highlighted her involvement in broader continental initiatives.
“Through the LadyM Foundation, we develop tailored solutions for marginalised communities. Across Africa, we have formed strategic partnerships to advance our vision.
“I am the Executive Director of the African Private Sector Summit, which supports the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). We explore ways to enable intra-African trade, ensuring that even small-scale producers can access markets across the continent.
“I have also served as a mentor with African Women Innovation and Knowledge (AWIK), where women support each other in business,” she said.
She further revealed plans to launch a clothing line aimed at empowering local talent and creating employment opportunities for women.
“I am launching a clothing line next week, through which I am supporting a talented young designer who lacks resources. The initiative will also create jobs for women who have long been stuck in low-growth factory roles.”
Ms Matekane emphasised that meaningful change begins at an individual level.
“You do not have to come from a place of privilege to make a difference. Do not wait or complain about your background. Take action and let your efforts grow,” she said.
