RISING THROUGH THE RANKS: MPHO HLABELA-MNGXITAMA’S LEADERSHIP LEGACY

By Precious Mupenzi

• Mpho Hlabela-Mngxitama’s journey from humble beginnings in Sebokeng to becoming the Acting Deputy Director-General (DDG) of Community Development at the Department of Social Development is a testament to her resilience and dedication.
• Her career reflects a deep commitment to women’s empowerment, particularly in the public sector, where she has risen through the ranks despite facing challenges as a woman of colour.
• As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, Mpho’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in women’s rights and the ongoing need to equip future generations of women leaders with the tools to succeed.

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, we turn the spotlight on one of the Department of Social Development’s trailblazers, Mpho Hlabela-Mngxitama. Born and raised in the vibrant township of Sebokeng, Vaal, south of Johannesburg, her story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to empowering women in leadership.

From humble beginnings in Sebokeng, where she completed her schooling, Mpho embarked on a remarkable educational journey. Her passion for teaching led her to obtain a Teacher’s Diploma, followed by further studies at the University of Witwatersrand (WITS). However, her aspirations extended far beyond the classroom. She carved out a career in the private sector, working with esteemed publishing companies like Maskew Miller Longman and Macmillan. These roles, including editor, teacher trainer, and publishing manager, honed her skills and eventually led her to become a published author of Basic Education textbooks—a testament to her versatility and dedication to education.

In 2007, her career took a pivotal turn when she joined the Department of Social Development as a Deputy Director. Her talent and commitment saw her rapidly ascend through the ranks, from Director to Chief Director, and today, she serves as the Acting Deputy Director-General (DDG) of Community Development. Mpho’s journey within the Department reflects her unwavering belief in the power of leadership and her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Like many women in leadership, her rise was not without its challenges. “Being a woman, especially a woman of colour, often places us at a disadvantage. In many spaces, we are judged before we even speak,” she reflects. But through sheer determination, assertiveness, and hard work, Mpho overcame these hurdles. One of her keys to success was surrounding herself with strong female mentors who instilled in her the importance of attention to detail and producing excellent work, regardless of the task. Her leadership philosophy is clear: “Let your work speak for itself in your absence.”

Her career growth has also been deeply intertwined with a commitment to women’s empowerment. Reflecting on 30 years of democracy in South Africa, she acknowledges the strides made in advancing women’s rights, particularly within the public service. “Our government is clear about women empowerment, and while more can be done, much has been achieved,” she says. Mpho considers herself a product of these efforts and believes it is now her responsibility to ensure the next generation of women leaders is equipped with the tools to succeed.

Women’s Month holds special significance for her, both personally and professionally. “It is a time to appreciate the sacrifices of those who came before us, who paved the way for the opportunities we enjoy today,” she explains. She believes that accelerating women’s empowerment requires creating spaces for the next generation of women leaders, ensuring they are well-equipped to continue the journey towards gender equality.

Her advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles is simple yet profound: “Leadership is about service. You cannot lead if you are unwilling to serve and be led. Empathy, patience, and respect for others are key to effective leadership.” Mpho also emphasises the importance of being an accessible leader and creating an environment where every team member feels valued and heard.

Reflecting on 30 years of democracy, she acknowledges the progress made in women’s rights and empowerment but stresses the need for continued focus on economic empowerment, particularly for black women who remain disproportionately affected by poverty. She believes bridging this gap is crucial for achieving true gender equality in South Africa.

Looking ahead, her vision for women’s leadership and empowerment is one of hope and progress. “I truly believe that the young women in our department will surpass the levels I have reached. In the broader sector, I hope to see women in the non-profit sector becoming more involved in decision-making processes within their organisations,” she says. She remains committed to ensuring that future generations of women have the tools and opportunities to build on the foundation laid over the past three decades.

Mpho’s leadership values are rooted in passion, service, and vision. She leads with a clear purpose, driven by a desire to uplift her team and articulate a shared vision for success. Outside of work, she prioritises her well-being by staying connected to her spiritual life and keeping active through regular exercise. This balance, she believes, is essential for maintaining personal and professional harmony.

As she looks to the future, Hlabela-Mngxitama hopes to leave behind a legacy of empowerment—one where those she has mentored will continue the mission of serving the people of South Africa with dedication and compassion. Her journey stands as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through perseverance, passion, and a commitment to service.

As we celebrate Women’s Month, Mpho Hlabela-Mngxitama’s story reminds us of the incredible power of women in leadership and the ongoing work required to achieve true gender equality. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of women to rise, lead, and continue advancing the cause of women’s empowerment in South Africa.