Poet Chitra Rao once described life as a long-distance journey that begins with a single step. For Berlina Lekgethwane, it all started at the North-West University (NWU) when she acquired her bachelor's degree in communication in 2008 and her honours degree in social science psychology in 2009.

Berlina continues to juggle being a wife, mother and the head of communication for a local municipality, but still finds time to give back to others. She often serves as a master of ceremonies, a motivational speaker, and a sponsor. "I juggle all of this by prioritising various tasks, and take each day as it comes," says Berlina.

On the pageant front

Berlina has always aimed high. Not only was she a finalist for Mrs South Africa 2023, but she also won two awards: Women’s Empowerment and Mrs Personality.

She will also represent South Africa at the upcoming Mrs Worldwide Pageant, which will take place in October 2024. This event focuses on beauty with a purpose and presents promising opportunities for South Africa.

On 3 August she also walked away with the 2024 Fabulous Women Empowerment Award for the work she does through her philanthropic organisation, the Berlina Lekgethwane Foundation.

The foundation champions education, community development, and women's and youth empowerment across South Africa.

"I started the foundation to give back to marginalised communities, just like the one I am a product of," adds Berlina.

Lending a helping hand

The foundation has since collaborated with various companies, including Mahindra Rustenburg, Aahlay (which produces reusable pads), and Queen Bakery.

Berlina was involved in the Women in Mining event at Anglo American Amaderbult where they collaborated with Ultimate Eyewear Optometrists to conduct eye assessments at rural schools and provide treatment for the learners.

She also took part in workshops to empower young people through acting, in collaboration with the Let It Shine casting agency at Sesame Television studios.

"I continuously aim to transform lives, promote sustainable development for the long term, and grow the local economy," says Berlina.

She adds that she is looking forward to the launch of her next programme – Women in Technology and Artificial Intelligence – aiming to further empower young women.

NWU alumnus Berlina Lekgethwane walked away with the 2024 Fabulous Women Empowerment Award for her foundation's work.