By Thabo Monyela
MOPJE VILLAGE- In an electrifying moment of pride and joy, the 29-year-old Selaelo Ramahlo continues to demonstrate her prowess on the national stage as a philanthropist , as she has been listed as one of the top 200 most influential youth in South African.
The Mopje Village- born female philanthropist and advocatant for civil society, has been listed alongside Banyana Banyana star captain Refiloe Jane, the renowned amapiano producer and dancer Robot Boii and other influential youth figures as the most impactful young person in the country by the Mail & Guardian’s top 200 2024 edition.
The Mail & Guardian newspaper ‘s annual top 200 influential youth South Africa awards, is an initiative that recognises future leaders, who are having a positive effect on the society.
The University of Johannesburg alumnas is the CEO and co-founder of a community development and sustainability organisation, His Presence Foundation that helps in equipping children in rural areas with skills and donations.
One of the resounding initiatives that might have earned her a national recognition is ” Keep a school Child in School’ campaign drive, where the foundation in partnership with Greater Tzaneen Municipality donated 100 pairs of school shoes, tracksuits and sanitary towels to various schools in Mopani district, earlier this year.
Also in May this year, her foundation partnered with the office of the then Deputy Minister in Presidency Pinky Kekana to launch the inauguration of African Women and youth in trade conference. The conference afforded women and youth with an opportunity to showcase their businesses and pitch for new business ideas.
Selaelo says she’s driven by issues that involve young people, and believes that youth has the potential to shape South Africa’s future by getting more involved in economic development processes that will add value to the development of the country.
” This award celebrates my unwavering dedication to community upliment, financial empowerment , and innovative leadership, marking a significant milestone in a journey characterised by impactful service and transformative vision” she said.
Selealo further added that the recognition award by the Mail & Guardian newspaper , as top 200 most influential person in the country amongst millions of youth in the country, is an achievement she’s proud off and will always be a symbol to continue to young people especially those who are economically disadvantaged.
