Women's Month in South Africa is a time to honor the immeasurable contributions women make to society, not just through their grand achievements but also through their quiet, unwavering strength. In the work that we do, we believe that the path to a just and equitable world is paved with gender equality.
As poet Maya Angelou beautifully said, "Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women." This month, our team members pause to reflect on the extraordinary women who have shaped their lives — women whose strength, leadership, and relentless pursuit of equality have touched our hearts and inspired us to become the changemakers we are today.
Thato Noinyane, Senior Manager: Digital Campaigns at Global Citizen
A 14-year-old Thato with her grandmother at her Johannesburg home.
“If you were to ask anyone in my family, they’d agree that our grandmother, whom we affectionately called Mme, was an extraordinary woman who left an indelible mark on all our lives. When I think of the term ‘superwoman,’ she’s the first person who comes to mind. Even though she’s no longer with us, she remains my favorite person.”
Thato’s grandmother, Mme, was a source of love, generosity, and wisdom. Raised by her grandmother, Thato considers herself fortunate to have experienced her unwavering support and unconditional love. “Mme was wonderfully simple, unfazed by life’s glitter and shine. Her love and attention were never for sale because she gave them freely, even to those who didn’t quite see her magic,” Thato recalls. This selfless love and commitment have influenced Thato’s belief in the importance of community and collaboration in fighting injustice. “I will always be grateful to have been touched by her amazing soul, and I hope that, someday, I can walk through life with the same grace and gentleness she did.”
Asemahle Mzilikazi, Global Citizen Fellow
US former first lady Michelle Obama speaks to the crowd as she presents her anticipated memoir "Becoming" during her book tour stop in Washington, on Nov. 17, 2018.
Asemahle draws inspiration from Michelle Obama, whose journey from humble beginnings in Chicago to the White House (as First Lady of the United States) exemplifies the power of hard work and perseverance. “Michelle’s unapologetic authenticity and generosity of spirit encourage me to be my best self, to lift others up, and to strive for a more just and equitable world,” Asemahle explains.
Through Michelle’s initiatives, such as “Let’s Move!” and “Reach Higher,” and her bestselling book Becoming, Asemahle has learned valuable lessons on self-discovery, love, and perseverance. “Her inspiration has ignited a fire within me, fueling my dreams and ambitions. I am motivated to pursue my own initiatives, to drive positive change, and to make a lasting impact.”
Khanyi Mlaba, Senior Manager: Content Creation at Global Citizen
Khanyi with her best friend Janine and Aunty Des in her home in Salt Rock, Durban.
For Khanyi, the woman who profoundly impacted her life — particularly when it comes to her career and professional success — was not a family member, but her best friend’s mother, Desiree, affectionately known as Aunty Des. “I’ve appointed her my Godmother because of her influence over me,” Khanyi shares. During a challenging period in high school, when Khanyi often felt lost or unseen, Aunty Des stepped in and became a guiding force.
“She connected with me instantly, this hustler of an entrepreneur with a big brain, multiple businesses, and a fast tongue that could make grown men cry,” Khanyi reminisces. One particular piece of advice from Aunty Des has stayed with Khanyi: “No matter what happens, and no matter what people say about you, you have to keep moving. Focus on yourself. You have to be like a happy little flea and hop onto the next thing.” This analogy has carried Khanyi through many adversities, reminding her to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
Lipalesa Morake, Director: Africa Youth Development at Global Citizen
Lipalesa’s admiration lies with former executive director of UN Women, Mama Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, a woman who embodies what it is to be an empowered woman. “From breaking barriers in the workplace to leading movements for social change, women continue to prove that there are no limits to what we can achieve,” Lipalesa asserts.
Mama Phumzile’s unwavering commitment to advocating for women has been a call to action for Lipalesa. “She reminds us to continue to fight for equality, justice, and opportunities for all women regardless of their background. When women rise, we all rise.” Lipalesa draws strength from Mama Phumzile’s words and actions, using them as a driving force to support and uplift women in her own work.
Tibby Tiba, Global Citizen Fellow
Tibby's inspirational mother, Caroline Tiba.
For Tibby, the woman who shaped her views on kindness and empowerment is her mother Caroline Tiba. This dynamo left her paying job to start an organization dedicated to fighting stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV (PLHIV). “She is indeed a dynamite,” Tibby says proudly. Her mother’s passion for change led her to found Rotanganedza Community Care, a mission-driven organization that has impacted countless lives in their community in Johannesburg, South Africa.
“My mother is a street-smart woman who taught me to be strategic about everything I do,” Tibby reflects. Her mother’s dedication to empowering young people and developing communities has left a memorable mark on Tibby, inspiring her to follow in her footsteps as a young leader. “To be a changemaker is to be a beacon of possibility, lighting the way for others to follow. I am a living testament to her path.”
This Women’s Month in South Africa, we celebrate these incredible women — the grandmothers, mothers, mentors, and icons — who have shaped our lives, driven our passions, and inspired us to become the changemakers we are today. Their influence continues to ripple through our work at Global Citizen, reminding us that when women rise, we all rise.