By Gofaone Motsamai

Bontle Manana, a 34-year-old industrial psychologist and PhD candidate at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU), is breaking barriers and inspiring women across South Africa.

Hailing from Phola Village in Mahikeng, she recently achieved the prestigious milestone of being named a Mrs South Africa semi-finalist.

“This is a significant achievement for me,” Bontle shares. “It allows me to interact with influential women and access a platform that can help advance my career counselling mission. It is also a personal goal to show married women that we can be nurturers within our families while having a voice in society and playing an important role in shaping our communities.”

Her passion for guiding others on their career paths stems from her own professional journey. “My desire to help people to find their true calling, especially the youth, drives me,” she explains.

“Many young individuals in rural areas, like my home village, only know of careers such as nursing, teaching or firefighting. While these professions are commendable, there is a wide world of possibilities out there. I firmly believe in pursuing our God-given purpose and going to school to hone what we already possess.”

Her research as a PhD candidate focuses on developing a model to assist talent management practitioners in better understanding employees' diverse career aspirations.

“In essence, I am asking, ‘How do we manage different types of people to get the best out of them?’,” she explains.

Despite her professional ambitions, Bontle remains deeply connected to her roots. “Phola Village is the core of who I am. I was raised not only by my parents, but also by the entire village. That upbringing shaped my confidence and desire to give back."

Balancing her roles as a mother, business owner, academic and semi-finalist requires intentional planning. "There is always time for things we are committed to and love. Understanding the different domains we exist in really helps with this. Integrating work and life is the best approach to balancing everything," she reflects.

Looking forward, Bontle aims to grow her baking business, expand her career counselling practice, and use the Mrs South Africa platform to uplift and empower communities.

Her advice to others is simple but powerful: "Do everything for the right reasons. Is your why clearly defined? And lastly – just do it."

To follow Bontle Manana on social media:

Instagram: Bontlekome

TikTok: Bontlejo

Facebook: Bontlekome

Bontle Manana is breaking barriers and inspiring women across South Africa.