Latest news with #Lesego
The Citizen
11-08-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Mokopane girl born without arms defies the odds
Four years ago, Martha Marema returned home from the doctor filled with excitement – she was expecting her first daughter after having two sons. 'I was so happy to hear I was having a princess,' Martha recalls. But she had no idea of the journey that lay ahead. Polokwane Review reports that on the day baby Lesego was born at Voortrekker Hospital, Martha sensed that something was different. Despite hearing her baby cry, the midwives didn't bring her daughter to her immediately. 'They tried to prepare me, but at that moment, I didn't understand,' she says. Lesego had been born without arms. 'When they finally gave her to me, I didn't know whether to scream or cry. I was broken inside,' says an emotional Martha. 'I spent days in tears, thinking someone was going to wake me up from a bad dream.' It was difficult at first, not knowing where to begin or how to help her child. But Martha was determined that her daughter would live a full life. 'Even though she was born without arms, I was going to do everything I could to give her a normal childhood.' She turned to online research, learning how people without limbs adapt to daily life. Teaching Lesego to use her feet was a challenge, as Martha herself couldn't fully relate, but Lesego took it all in stride. At nine months, she started crawling. A few months later, she was walking, though her balance needed work. And at just two years old, Lesego amazed her mother by picking up a spoon with her toes and feeding herself. Today, Lesego colours in with her feet, plays games on a phone and eats independently. 'The community has been wonderful,' says Martha. 'Everyone looks out for her, and she has a special bond with her brothers. She radiates love and brings light wherever she goes.' Lesego even caught national attention when President Cyril Ramaphosa wished her a happy birthday on April 13 via TikTok, where Martha shares her daughter's inspiring journey. 'She is my miracle,' says Martha. 'Without even realising it, she shows me every day that anything is possible if you believe.' Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. Read original story on
IOL News
08-08-2025
- General
- IOL News
For lions, Mthethwa is always ready to roar into action
Lesego assisting with a lion collaring. Image: Supplied SINCE the age of five, Lesego Mthethwa has been fascinated with lions. Today at 24, she is a field officer with the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Carnivore Conservation Programme working largely in the Greater Kruger areas of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. In a world where poaching, wildlife trafficking, and poisoning pose an ever-looming threat to lions, Mthethwa works to support their conservation and ensure their continued protection. 'My parents used to take my sister and I to the Kruger National Park every year during the school holidays, and those trips had a huge impact on me. Being surrounded by wildlife sparked a deep love for lions and nature in general. That early connection stayed with me and eventually grew into a passion for conservation, it just felt natural to turn that childhood wonder into a career path focused on protecting the animals and environments I care so deeply about,' she said. Lesego after collaring a lion. Image: Supplied 'Conservation isn't just about animals, it's about preserving the environment for future generations, promoting coexistence between people and wildlife, and ensuring that natural heritage remains intact,' she explained. Mthethwa, who hails from Mbombela, Mpumalanga, studied a BSc in Biological Sciences, focusing on Zoology and Physiology at the University of North West Potchefstroom Campus. Her first hands-on experience in carnivore conservation was gained through an internship with the Kevin Richardson Foundation. 'The first project I was involved in was a lion population assessment in the Nxanatseni South Region of the Kruger National Park. It was a sobering experience, as the survey, which the EWT undertook for SANParks, revealed a decline in lion numbers in the northern part of the park due to targeted poisonings and poaching. Despite the findings, the project was an invaluable learning opportunity and a strong introduction to wildlife survey work. Lesego doing a presentation to high school learners. Image: Supplied 'I worked closely with several colleagues and partners as we covered over 5,100 kilometers, using both vehicle-based photography and camera traps. By analysing the lions' unique whisker spot patterns, we were able to identify individuals and estimate population numbers in the region,' Mthethwa said. A typical day at work for the young conservationist includes routine patrols across the landscape, and responding to situations where lions have moved into high-risk areas, whether these threats are linked to human-wildlife conflict or other threats. 'I'm also involved in regular snare sweeps to help mitigate poaching risks,' she said. Another key aspect of Mthethwa's work is the collaring of lions. She explains that when specific lions are identified as needing closer monitoring, they are fitted with tracking collars to help ensure their safety and provide data on their movements. Lesego tracking lions. Image: Supplied Mthethwa pointed out that among the biggest threats facing conservation in her field is poaching and poisoning, often linked to human-wildlife conflict and the illegal wildlife trade. 'This is worsened by the unregulated use of toxic pesticides, which are frequently misused to poison predators. I believe stronger enforcement, community education, and tighter regulation of these chemicals are essential. Another challenge is exploitative wildlife tourism activities like cub petting and predator selfies mislead the public and harm true conservation.' Last month, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said government was making progress toward publishing a Prohibition Notice that will ban the establishment of new captive lion breeding facilities in South Africa. This forms part of a broader strategy to phase out intensive breeding practices for commercial gain and to strengthen the country's biodiversity laws under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA), 2004. Being a woman in her field is not without its challenges, as Mthethwa describes conservation, especially fieldwork as still being a very male-dominated field which she navigates, "staying confident in my abilities, being consistent in my work, and finding mentors and allies who support and uplift women in the field". "Women in conservation often face a mix of challenges, ranging from being underestimated in the field, to limited representation in leadership roles, to balancing safety concerns while working in remote or male-dominated environments. 'As a young woman, I've often had to prove myself in ways my male counterparts haven't. There can be assumptions about physical strength or capability, and sometimes I've been underestimated simply because of my age or gender. But rather than letting that discourage me, it's pushed me to work even harder and let my results speak for themselves. Over time, I've earned respect through consistency, resilience, and a genuine passion for the work. I also hope that by showing up and doing the work well, I can help open doors for more women to enter and thrive in this space.' Cape Times
TimesLIVE
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Afro pop singer Lesego Reetseng set to make fiery comeback at ShowThemFlames Music Night
After more than a decade away from the spotlight, celebrated musician, songwriter and performer Lesego Reetseng — simply known as Lesego — is making his long-awaited return to the stage. The Klerksdorp-born artist, widely known for his chart-topping hit Viva Afrika Tau featuring the Jaziel Brothers, is set to light up the stage at the inaugural ShowThemFlames Music Night on May 30 at Hotel Sky Sandton in Johannesburg. In an exclusive chat with TshisaLIVE, Lesego opened up about his time away from the music industry and what fans can expect from his big comeback. 'Like in any profession, one needs to take a break and rest a bit, and I felt I needed that opportunity,' he said. 'Music is a gift I was born with — it will always be in me. I've always loved the stage and missed performing for my fans. While I was resting, I was making super great music that I believe is ready to be shared now.' With a renewed sense of purpose and creative energy, Lesego promises a show-stopping performance for old and new fans alike. 'Expect nothing less than the best from me,' he said. 'A super performance befitting of the love my fans have shown me. It's an amazing opportunity and the start of many great things to come.' Reflecting on his journey, Lesego expressed deep gratitude to his supporters who've stayed by his side throughout the years. 'Every artist goes through that phase with each new offering, and I'm looking forward to the journey again. I want to thank my fans for holding it down for me — the love you're showing and wishing for me is amazing,' he added. Lesego's return marks a new chapter in his career, and if his past hits are anything to go by, fans can expect a night of pure musical magic.
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Mona Monyane and Clementine Mosimane dive into the heartfelt chaos of motherhood in 'Sabbatical'
Mona Monyane as Lesego with Clementine Mosimane as her mother Dorris in the heartfelt drama, 'Sabbatical'. Image: Supplied Karabo Lediga's directorial debut, "Sabbatical", is a bittersweet mother-daughter drama. It explores profound themes of family roots, ambition, integrity, deception, and loyalty. If you haven't seen it yet on the big screen, it is highly recommended. The film benefits greatly from the exceptional performances of Mona Monyane as Lesego and Clementine Mosimane as her mother, Dorris, a truly remarkable pairing. I had the pleasure of a tête-à-tête with the actresses, who have developed a strong offscreen bond, marked by their noticeable warmth towards one another and praiseworthy comments. It was truly heartening to witness, especially since this is the first time they have worked with one another. Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ Mosimane shared: It was delicious working together, and I think it's because we were giving each other the space to deal with the emotions of our characters. 'Also, as actors, the understanding, the mutual respect, the love for the craft, because it's not about us, it's about the craft and the characters, so that when they come to life, they are so authentic and realistic, that was very important to us.' Monyane added: 'I agree, mutual respect. And we found a lot of similarities in our approach. So I think it's much easier when you're acting alongside someone who takes things as seriously as you do and appreciates the opportunity to tell a story. 'We came in giving our hearts, giving our minds, and it translated. It's been an honour as somebody who has watched this phenomenal woman (casting her gaze over at Mosimane) growing up. Suffice it to say, they nailed the dysfunctional mother-daughter relationship. Most of the scenes play out in a Pretoria township. The charm of the story is its relatability, which is underpinned by a strong sense of community, bustling ekasi atmosphere and close-knit bonds. The premise centres on Lesego, a high-flying corporate climber on the cusp of a promotion to CEO at LouwFin. Her life takes a tumultuous turn when she becomes entangled in a financial scandal involving the misappropriation of a miners' pension fund. As such, she retreats to her childhood home, where she is forced to face the harsh reality of her career being over while being abandoned by so-called friends. She also has to deal with disappointing her mother and the ghosts she's been running from since leaving for the big city, where her opulent lifestyle left little room for family or friends from back home. While dealing with financial ruin as her accounts have been frozen, she dodges the calls from Percy Mthimkhulu (Loyiso Gola), the tenacious investigator on the case. A behind the scenes shot of Karabo Lediga, the writer and director of 'Sabbatical'. Image: Supplied Reflecting on her first impression of the script, Monyane shared: 'I was like, I know this woman. I didn't have to feel as if I had to create her. I knew her. I had been through a sabbatical. I had been through losing everything that you work hard for. "So it was very exciting to read a piece that spoke to the human condition and that personalised it in such a beautiful way. 'It was also exciting to see the challenges because a lot of it is non-verbal. A lot of it is showing the emotion, the thought process of the character, rather than saying it. So I loved it from the script, and even in the audition, it was just so real for me.' Her veteran co-star added: 'I might not have been through it physically, but emotionally, yes, because we have grown up in black townships, in black families, and when I read the script, I got so hooked, as this is what our society needs. 'It is not that a copy and paste thing where everybody is going for the same thing. You could see that it's got depth. It is meaty. There is this emotional journey that most of us are going through, and that we are so scared to confront …' Aside from singing the praises of the director, who also penned the script, the actresses both agreed that the scene they loved most was a bathroom scene with a traditional onion sack. Monyane shared: 'It was really in that moment when they had the most important conversation as mother and daughter without using any words, and yet everything that needed to be said was said in that scene. It took me to my relationship with my mother and made me realise so many things about her that maybe I overlooked.' Mosimane added, 'That scene unpacks so many things. It's saying forgive me, it's saying I love you, it's saying I miss you, back.' The director had this to say… If the name sounds familiar, she is Kagiso Lediga's sister. He is a producer on the film On the inspiration for the story, Karabo revealed: ' I've always found my relationship with my mom, who's quite a huge character in my life, quirky, funny. There's a constant conflict, but there's also a lot of humour between the two of us; kind of a typical mother and daughter relationship in this country, on this continent, at this time. 'She's a huge influence on my life, and I've always thought how interesting it could be to write a narrative around that sort of relationship.'
The Star
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
'Sabbatical' cast brings power and heart to the screen
Local actors reflect on their transformative experience in the new local film Sabbatical , which explores ambition, familial ties, and the weight of silence within the context of corporate scandal. At the helm is Mona Monyane portrays Lesego, a brilliant corporate climber on the fast track to becoming the next CEO of LouwFin. However, her rise to the top takes a devastating turn when she is implicated in a financial scandal involving the embezzlement of a miner's pension fund. This twist forces Lesego back to her childhood home, where she must confront the woman who raised her and the ghosts she thought she'd left behind. Known for her acclaimed performances in Muvhango and Kalushi, Monyane describes her role as a career-defining moment, allowing her to re-establish her presence in the film industry. 'Being a part of the Sabbatical cast was like a dream come true, reintroducing myself in the industry. Telling a powerful and impactful story made me feel like I was fulfilling my purpose as somebody who tells stories to heal and to empower. It was also just a magical experience all around,' she reveals. Monyane also explains that the synergy among the cast and crew made the experience all the more rewarding, highlighting the director's ability to allow performers to inject their essence into the film. 'The noteworthy aspect of the film was the director's approach. Her respect, her ability to also allow us as the performance to bring our essence to the piece.' Another standout performance comes from seasoned actress Clementine Mosimane, who plays Doris, Lesego's fiercely protective mother. 'Being part of the SABBATICAL cast was an honour and just a humbling experience. Reading through the script as cast with the director and also realising that it is a story so close to home, authentic and realistic,' Mosimane remarks. She describes Doris as a complex character, a resilient mother who has faced tremendous challenges while raising her daughter, all while teaching them invaluable lessons about communication, tolerance, and acceptance. 'Doris is a mother/woman who has gone through a lot as a single mother, not easily showing love towards her daughter but caring and very smart. lessons to be learnt and maybe consider defending individual communication, tolerance, celebrating your kids and other people, and acceptance.' For actress Lethabo Mpoko, joining this project means so much more than acting; it symbolises exposure and professional growth within a film that addresses relatable South African stories. 'To me it speaks about exposure and professional growth. But it also means being part of a project that aims to improve the South African industry because it tells a story that more South Africans can relate to. It tells a real South African story. It also means being part of a production that aims to bring back the culture – the culture of going back to the movies and watching a production and opening up a conversation with the people around you.' Acclaimed comedian Loyiso Gola also takes on the role of investigator Percy Mthimkhulu, delivering a sharp and methodical performance that ties the narrative together. Set against the backdrop of Pretoria, the film seamlessly blends emotional weight with sharp humour, featuring familiar faces from high school sweethearts to nosy neighbours, each adding depth to this multifaceted story. The creative force behind the film includes Director of Photography Motheo Moeng, known for Queen Sono and Matwetwe, who crafts a visually arresting and intimate aesthetic. Adding to the emotional gravity is a lush, jazz-infused score by musician Bokani Dyer, enhancing the unfolding drama with soulful depth. [email protected] Saturday Star
