Mr Luthando Molefe who has been recognised for his exceptional work in community outreach, academic excellence and leadership.PhD Candidate an “SA Hero”
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UKZN PhD candidate in the School of Education, Mr Luthando Molefe, has been recognised for his work in Youth Empowerment at the 2023 South African Heroes Awards (SAHA) ceremony.
Molefe was selected for his exceptional work in community outreach, academic excellence and leadership, after a rigorous process of identifying individuals who inspire and uplift their communities through outstanding work and projects.
The winners of the final preliminary round of the judging process were selected by a panel of judges followed by a public vote.
Said Molefe: ‘In the spirit of Ubuntu, we contribute not because we have everything, but because we know exactly how it feels not to have. Therefore, we feel motivated if we make a difference in other people’s lives. I am grateful to all individuals who supported my nomination and work during this critical period. I am because we are.’
Molefe has received several awards for his extraordinary and remarkable efforts in the fields of leadership, community service, and academic achievement. These include being chosen as one of the Junior Chamber International South Africa’s Ten Outstanding Young Persons in South Africa for 2021 for Academic Leadership and/or Accomplishment.
He was also listed as one of the Top 40 Most Inspiring Students at UKZN in 2017-18 and 2019-20, and received a Golden Key International Honour Society Honorary Award in 2021 for his exceptional contributions to the community and accomplishments in the three main pillars of the society: academics, leadership, and service.
Molefe represented UKZN and South Africa at the YALI Regional Leadership Centre Southern Africa programme in 2020 and participated in a study tour for teachers in Germany in 2018.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied