CELEBRATING MALE CHANGEMAKERS: GAUTENG’S 365 MEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS

By Phetoho Maja

• The 10th Annual 365 Men of the Year Awards, hosted by Gauteng MEC for Social Development Faith Mazibuko, honoured male role models committed to addressing social challenges and fostering positive change in South Africa.
• Legends and community leaders, including Prof Naudé Malan, Dr Pali Lehohla, and DJ Karri, were recognised for their contributions in fields such as food security, community development, and youth empowerment.
• Held in conjunction with International Men’s Day, the event emphasised the importance of empowering men to inspire the next generation and tackle pressing issues like drug abuse and violence.

Legends and community leaders, including Prof Naudé Malan, Dr Pali Lehohla, and DJ Karri, were recognised for their contributions in fields such as food security, community development, and youth empowerment.

Held in conjunction with International Men’s Day, the event emphasised the importance of empowering men to inspire the next generation and tackle pressing issues like drug abuse and violence.

ucation Campus in Johannesburg.

The event recognised male role models making extraordinary contributions to society by addressing violence, social ills, and promoting positive change in South Africa.

Among the honoured legends were Dr Pali Lehohla, former Statistician General; Dr Jiyane Mbere, Soweto’s first specialist in gynaecology; and Archbishop Bheki Lukhele.

One of the prestigious 365 Men Awards was presented to Professor Naudé Malan, an Associate Professor in Business Management at the University of Johannesburg. Prof Malan is renowned for his contributions to food security, including his role with the Agricultural Research Council of South Africa.

Prof Malan spearheaded iZindaba Zokudla, a multi-stakeholder engagement project aimed at creating opportunities for sustainable urban agriculture in Soweto. The initiative connects urban farmers, entrepreneurs, academics, civil servants, and other stakeholders, fostering innovation in food systems.

Celebrity DJ and influencer Karabo Mokgara, widely known as DJ Karri, also received the 365 Men of the Year Award. Mokgara was recognised for his commitment to community development, including assisting individuals in transitioning from the streets to rehabilitation centres and launching music careers.

“This is a very special recognition,” said Mokgara, dedicating the award to his wife for her unwavering support, which enabled him to use family resources to uplift others.

Thato Mbha, also known as TT Mbha, was celebrated for his philanthropic efforts. The social entrepreneur and real estate mogul from Pimville, Soweto, leads a campaign providing suits to underprivileged boys to help restore their dignity.

During his acceptance speech, Mbha expressed gratitude to his family, stating, “Families are the backbone of every community.”

In her address, MEC Mazibuko praised the nominees for their contributions to shaping a better Gauteng.

“We believe if we recognise and empower men, we will inspire a better and more sober younger generation. Drugs are a serious problem in our province, with over 35,000 men and boys on waiting lists for rehabilitation centres. Your efforts are critical to addressing this issue,” said Mazibuko.

She called for collective action to combat drug abuse and promote positive activities such as sports and developmental programmes to redirect youth away from destructive behaviours.

The following individuals were honoured with the 365 Men of the Year Awards:

• Bulelani Balabala
• Prof Naudé Malan
• Karabo Mokgara
• Herman Sekoele
• Jabulani Mendu
• Jabulani Nkabinde
• Jabulani Selbi Sibanyoni
• Lungelo Mdletshe
• Neville Booysen
• Njabulo Sibusiso Mabuza
• Nkosinathi Moshoana
• Sibusiso Cyril Sizani
• Vuyolethu Sibiya
• Thato Mbha

The awards coincided with International Men’s Day, observed annually on 19 November, to honour the contributions of men to their families, communities, and society at large.

The ceremony highlighted the transformative efforts of men in areas such as community development, education, health, agriculture, entrepreneurship, leadership, science and technology, sports, arts and culture, youth development, and media.

The event served as a reminder of the potential for positive change when men lead by example in addressing societal challenges.