Model flies Lesotho flag high

By Seleoe Nonyane

Mojabeng Senekal-Ndebele is on cloud nine after she was last weekend bestowed with the ‘Inspirational Woman of the Year’ honour at the Emerge Africa Awards in Gauteng, South Africa.

Emerge Africa Awards recognise top achievers in different sectors all over Africa. This is an annual event and this was the second edition.

Mojabeng who hails from Butha-Buthe told theReporterthis week that the awards pride themselves in honouring “trailblazers”, so she believes she was nominated because that is what was seen in her.

She said in the category of ‘Inspirational Woman Of The Year’ they were looking for a woman who leads a life of inspiration; a leader in every space they occupy, a woman who sets goals, works towards them and achieves them.

The indicated that the organisers were also looking for a pioneer – a woman who succeeds against all barriers that she may come across, and more than anything, a woman who shines her light so bright it creates direction for others.

Mojabeng believes what made her stand out from the rest of the other nominees could be the fact that she is from Lesotho.

She also revealed that she has created a brand for herself in both her home country and in South Africa, partnering with brands and organisations that reach audiences and impact lives all over the world.

“My entire life’s work is proof of hard work and collaboration. In all I do I take others with me. This is why I had the support that got me this award. Winning feels like my entire life’s work has been rewarded. Coming from a country where excellence is hardly rewarded, continental recognition is absolutely gratifying.

“This award is the highest form of representation. Now that I have been recognised on this platform, it means Lesotho has also been recognised. Other Basotho who are just as great in what they do and more have this same opportunity.

“It is my life mission to shine so bright that I light up the path for others to be able to reach for their dreams, to find the resources to nurture their talents and eventually live out their purpose. Our country has talent, uniqueness and brilliance. It is about time we break free from isolation and claim our space,” Mojabeng said.

She revealed that she is also representing Lesotho in the Mrs Universe Africa competition, adding she is thrilled to be the first to take part in the competition.

With her performance so far, Lesotho – out of 47 contestants – has been selected among the top 22 countries to compete in the final competition.

“For generations women have lost their voices to marriage and thus the motive to pursue some of their interests. I entered this competition to inspire married women to pursue their passions and design for themselves what a life of purpose is,” Mojabeng said.

The pageant will be hosted in July this year at the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City, South Africa.

Mojabeng holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health. She is also a commercial model with experience working in Lesotho and South Africa as the face, ambassador, and influencer for brands like L’Oreal Paris, Jungle, Table Charm, Lindt, DSTV Delicious, Dunns Clothing, Women for Change SA, and more.

Among other titles, she is a former Miss National University of Lesotho and Face of Lesotho. Mojabeng was awarded an International Humanitarian Award having competed against representatives from 62 other countries at the Face of Beauty International competition in Taipei, Taiwan in 2015.