Allies play an essential role in elevating and valuing sportswomen and women in sport. One such ally is Kutullo Matloga, whom we feature in this #BestMan spotlight as we celebrate International Men’s Day, marked on 19 November 2024.
The Brand South Africa Activations Officer has actively supported gsport’s mission over the past five years. Reflecting on this partnership, Matloga describes it as both meaningful and impactful:
“Looking at the work that gsport is doing, especially in empowering women and creating opportunities, and aligning it with Brand South Africa … along with the work we do, creating opportunities and awareness as well as pushing women in our country. gsport is one of the best organisations promoting women in sports. My role in terms of getting involved also gives gsport a spotlight, and also assists Brand South Africa in marrying who we are.”
Brand South Africa Activations Officer, Kutullo Matloga
Matloga values gsport’s contribution to women’s sport and takes pride in being an ally.
“For me to be an ally to gsport, I have seen the role women have played, I have seen it myself … I have been mentored by women. I need to give it back to more women and invest my time, make me the resources that I have available so it can also contribute in growing of women. In terms of the gender gap I want to play my part, we are all equal when it comes to that gap, everyone is empowered and women can also lead.”
As an esteemed advocate for women in sport, gsport’s efforts resonate deeply with Matloga, who believes that supporting such organisations is vital for the industry’s growth.
“Looking at the work that gsport has done in the past 18 years and the women they have developed, some we have seen on television, some in soccer. So their role is very important in empowering them, especially now that gsport is the only organisation that I know that is promoting women in sports, especially here in South Africa and Africa.”
The #PowerOfRecognition campaign has become synonymous with gsport, ensuring women in sport are acknowledged for their achievements. Matloga applauds this initiative for putting South Africa on the map.
“What gsport does is show the capabilities that women in sport have, not just in sport but also in business in general in other industries. This showcases that women do have the capabilities to lead and also to be successful in different spheres. The development that gsport does also assists a lot, in helping women ready themselves for the future.”
“One thing I have realised is that the training, education and development that has come through gsport – most of them are successful, and play huge roles in different spheres.”
Matloga also highlights gsport’s leadership in promoting pride and patriotism through their work in talent development.
“When I had a conversation with Kass, she was sharing the experience of some of the interns, that they have had, it just shows how gsport is playing their part. Most of the interns that they had were graduating from an intern to being leading women in sport. It is also for pride, to show the excellence in the work that they are doing.
“So in terms of pride and patriotism, it’s number one. Reporting on the current affairs that are happening, like the Olympics and now the Paralympics showcasing that women are leading. gsport has continued to raise the flag, especially how the newsroom highlights women playing a massive role.”
Through partnerships, gsport has mobilised support from across industries, amplifying its impact.
“One thing that gsport has done well, is open it up to all the industries, not necessarily sport. Inviting the corporate world to play a role, especially in terms of sponsorships. This plays a critical role in putting gsport as a leading news provider for women’s sport in the country. Also, Brand South Africa coming on board to say we are on board to assist gsport in growing it and making it the first choice in showcasing the role that women are playing in sport.”
Matloga sees the annual gsport Awards as proof that investing in women in sport is worthwhile.
“We have seen sportswomen who weren’t known but through gsport, they are now known and they are also able to get opportunities, because some of them through gsport have been able to get sponsorships because the spotlight was on them as athletes.”
“Corporates were able to recognise them and showcase their talent and because of this spotlight, corporates were able to invest, and that shows the impact that gsport has had in the past 18 years,” said Matloga. “This creates a huge awareness for the country, when we compare it with men, there is still a gap but gsport is slowly but surely closing that gap.”
Matloga concludes with advice for those considering supporting gsport: “What I will say is let’s treat people equally whether male or female, let’s be bold and invest in women.
“Women are capable, I will invite all corporates to invest in women in sport because this is where the development of women in sport starts, and it will assist them in going forward and growing the sport.”
“Women can lead without us men, let’s support women, and let’s also invest when they need our assistance. Let’s attend their events, let’s put money in, let’s make sure that the resources are available so that in the future we can have more and more people that are supporting gsport and women in sport.”
Main Photo Caption: Allies play an important role in elevating and valuing sportswomen and women in sport and one such person is Kutullo Matloga who we chatted to for this #BestMan feature. All Photos: Supplied
Photo Caption: Brand South Africa Activations Officer Kutullo Matloga has done his part to endorse the work of gsport.
Photo Caption: Matloga has been working with gsport for the past five years, and says this partnership has been a valuable one.
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