AN AMBASSADOR FOR CULTURE AND A CHAMPION OF CHANGE: MEET BABALWA MAYA

By Cuma Pantshwa 

• Babalwa Maya, a proud custodian of her Xhosa heritage, is leveraging her cultural roots to inspire and empower the younger generation, particularly young women, in her community.
• Raised in the rural Eastern Cape by a single mother, Ms. Maya’s journey from humble beginnings has shaped her into a passionate advocate for cultural preservation, community building, and youth empowerment.
• Now a change agent at the Department of Social Development, she continues to drive transformative initiatives, fostering inclusivity and innovation, and remains dedicated to using her platform to uplift others through mentorship, cultural education, and community engagement.

Babalwa Maya, a proud custodian of her heritage, is dedicated to using her cultural roots to empower the younger generation. “I was born and raised in Mthatha and grew up in Elliotdale, eXhorha, one of the smallest towns in the Eastern Cape, which is regarded as one of the poorest areas,” Ms. Maya shares, painting a vivid picture of her humble beginnings in the picturesque rural homelands where she developed a profound appreciation for her Xhosa culture.

Raised by a single mother alongside six siblings, Ms. Maya recalls the challenges of her upbringing, including arduous chores that have shaped her into the person she is today. “I used to travel twenty kilometres to and from school, passing through forests and crossing a river. On rainy days, the river would be full, but we would find a way to cross because when you arrived home, my mother would be waiting to see our homework.” Beaming with pride, she describes how, before heading to school, she would bake bread and prepare supper, usually samp and beans, which were staples in her household.

Despite these challenges, Ms. Maya credits her mother’s determination and her own resilience for inspiring her to become a strong woman. Growing up in a village, particularly with the AmaBomvana community, has guided her journey and continues to influence her aspirations. Young Babalwa immersed herself within her community, developing a vast understanding of Xhosa culture and traditions. “Whether it’s Intonjane, Imbeleko, I know which songs should be sung at those traditional ceremonies,” she shares jubilantly. Intonjane is a rite of passage welcoming girls into womanhood, while Imbeleko celebrates the introduction of a newborn to both the living and the ancestral spirits.

The rich cultural heritage of her people has had a profound impact on her life. Ms. Maya considers herself a community builder, deeply involved in various cultural and community projects. Through her work, she aims to preserve and promote the cultural traditions of her community, inspiring young women to embrace their cultural identities and instilling in them a sense of belonging. “I want to preserve and pass down my teachings of culture to future generations. My message to young leaders is to take pride in their heritage, celebrate their uniqueness, and use their cultural roots as a source of strength and empowerment,” she adds. In doing so, Ms. Maya cements her place as a true champion of cultural preservation and a role model for future generations.

Ms. Maya credits the AmaBomvana people for teaching her the importance of community and her mother for instilling in her the value of seizing opportunities. “Today, we call it: Taking up space! My mom would say, ‘never deny a chance because you don’t know what will make you shine.'”

With numerous accolades to her name, Ms. Maya has recently been appointed as a change agent at the Department of Social Development (DSD), where she plays a pivotal role in driving transformative change, advocating for innovative solutions, and implementing new initiatives. As a change agent, she shares her excitement about being at the forefront of shaping the department’s future. Her involvement is instrumental in championing the department’s vision, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and ensuring that the department remains responsive to the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

“I have been all over South Africa facilitating EZABASHA dialogues to build young people’s mindsets and self-esteem. Through these dialogues, I have helped groom some young people to form their own NPOs, and they are doing well. I love culture, and culture is me. I am also a mentor on INDONI SA: My Heritage, My Pride. I am the Ambassador of INKCIYO Eastern Cape and the advisor of YOKHE Arts and Multiculture,” she shares proudly. Inkciyo is a cultural educational programme by Umzi Kantu and Bomvane Youth Foundation that provides youth with knowledge and tools to combat social challenges through arts and culture. INDONI, founded by Dr. Nomcebo Mthembu, advocates for moral regeneration among the youth by using identity-focused programmes to address social ills, including crime, unemployment, and substance abuse.

Ms. Maya embodies the phrase ‘beauty with brains.’ In her adolescent years, she made a lasting impression on the pageant scene, winning several prestigious titles, including Miss Transkei. Today, she curates and hosts beauty pageants to inspire and empower young girls from her rural community. She emphasises that hard work and determination can lead to success, regardless of one’s background. “Your background does not determine your destiny; anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness,” she states. As a selfless community builder, often using her resources to fund events and initiatives, Ms. Maya believes that leadership is about going the extra mile to positively impact others’ lives.

Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Maya believes her experiences have instilled in her a strong work ethic and drive for success. She dreams of establishing a one-stop ‘concept store’ where people can access various services, from hair care to fashion, bringing her vision to life as a way of giving back to her community. Her advice to women as we celebrate Women’s Month: “When given a chance, use it effectively, never undermine yourself. God has given us different talents and capabilities, locate yours and shine!”