Lerato Mahoyi is an incredible South Afri-CAN known as an inspirational go-getter… she is a rape survivor but does not let this define her. She took her ordeal & focused all her energy on improving the lives of others in the same or worse situations.
She became a trainer for an initiative called “Activate”, started working with LoveLife & became an ambassador for an iniiaitve that fights for the right of women & children in Africa called “Hands Up For Her”.
“I once listened to women’s rights activist, Emma Mashanini, speaking, & one of the most profound things she said was, ‘We are human before we are women.’ I think we often get stuck on women empowerment & what being a leader entails, but it’s important to understand our roles very clearly in order to lead both inside & outside our homes.”
Lerato’s drive to help people less fortunate than she is, sees her involvement in a wide range of activities, from mentoring young women in her community to managing soccer teams of more than 120 young boys to help set them in a positive direction in life.
“I think one way that I am fighting back is by allowing myself to be both vocal & criticized. I decided that I will not be quiet. Once you make this choice, it is the most powerful thing you can do for someone else.”
Over the years she has focused on facilitation, content development & event co-ordination, training young people in innovation, leadership & socio-political navigation.
“I believe that the work I do chose me, I woke up into it – I’m passionate about giving, particularly to young people in South Africa. I am where I am because somebody who was once in my position gave their time, effort & energy to help me. It’s now my time to help others to become the best they can be.”
Mahoyi’s motto in life is no matter how dirty & dark our past is, our future is spotless.
“This motto has helped me get through many of the challenges I have faced in my life – it keeps me strong and determined to continue helping others.”
