A new year provides us the opportunity to dream, make goals, inspire and be inspired. In recent years there’s been a much welcomed shift where women are taking leadership positions in a world once completely dominated by men.
Internationally, notable milestones include Helena Costa, who became the first woman to manage a professional men’s football team in France when she took charge of second tier Clermont Foot in 2014, to many more women the world over who proven that the ceilings will be shattered, and taking charge of the corner office.
Here in South Africa we’ve seen the likes of Sinenjabulo Zungu become the CEO of a giant team in SA Football, AmaZulu, to Nozipho Jafta and Patience Shikwambana who are SASCOC CEO and COO respectively, leading a crucial arm of South African sport.
We’ve seen some impressive strides in our sporting fraternity where women occupy key positions and that has truly inspired change in ways we can see but sometimes in ways we can’t.
As the Netball South Africa President Cecilia Molokwane often says: “If you want anything to get done … Send a woman!” Molokwane herself was part of the group of people that brought South Africa its first ever Netball World Cup and made it a semi-professional sport that has changed the game for many Spar Proteas players.

As 2025 begins, it brings with it new opportunities to continue to disrupt the status quo, challenge stereotypes, and fill boardrooms with diverse voices.
To inspire and guide rising leaders, we’ve gathered advice from established women in sport leadership who have successfully broken through barriers.
Molokwane says her advice to young women hoping to soon grow into leadership positions and cement their place as leaders and ground breakers is straightforward.
“Discover your purpose and worth in life, knowing your value, and not compromising your principles. Focus on your goals and objectives, staying committed to achieving your aspirations despite not everyone liking you. Life’s journey isn’t always smooth, but challenges make you stronger.”
Netball South Africa President, Cecilia Molokwane
“When faced with criticism, remember it often comes from those not moving forward themselves. Strive to be a better version of yourself daily, competing only with the person in the mirror.
“As a leader, make tough decisions benefiting the organisation, not individuals, and listen more than you talk, especially in new environments. Persevere in your beliefs and goals, recognising success comes from both your efforts and God’s guidance and protection. Walk by faith, not sight, acknowledging the spiritual nature of our world and prioritising prayer in your daily life.”
Across all media houses in South Africa, there, too progress has been made with the number of women occupying powerful positions.
That is highly imperative because women understand the importance of coverage for other women, and will surely push that agenda more than their male counterparts.
In a male-dominated room, young female journalists voices will often be drowned out when arguing for the front page to be a deserving woman athlete following an impressive performance.
Thus, having a woman at the helm could make it easier to advance and elevate women’s sport using TV, Radio and Print.
Lerato Tsolo, SABC Sport Editor-in-Chief (Specialist: Research & Editorial), is changing the game one story at a time in an important building in South Africa. She leads a team of journalists at the Public Broadcaster and has ensured that women receive adequate coverage. She advises that in order to occupy these coveted chairs, the leadership journey starts with you.
“John Maxwell articulated this well when he said, ‘To lead others, you must first lead yourself.’ No words could be more true. Leadership requires you to work on yourself,” says Tsolo. “You need to cultivate the principles and values of leadership within yourself.”
“This entails developing your confidence, being intentional about where you’re going and taking full ownership of what you do. I really believe that this is the most powerful skill to develop throughout your journey of leadership.
SABC Sport Editor-in-Chief (Specialist: Research & Editorial), Lerato Tsolo
“My wish for women looking and hoping to break through leadership positions in the South African media landscape is that they never play small. Allow your light to shine bright. Be bullish about you and your abilities and be ready to take on the task when opportunity presents.”
Sometimes in life we get a young star in sport that possesses leadership qualities that are the envy of many.

Football prodigy Katleho Malebana is one such person. At a very young age, she’s held leadership positions in most of the teams she’s played in. She was South Africa’s captain in both the U15 and U17 national teams. Most recently, she lead her team in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers beating Gabon a whopping 21-2 on aggregate.
Arguably the future holder of the Banyana Banyana captain’s armband, also has advice for those aiming to take up leadership positions in the near future.
“The advice I would give is consistently putting in the effort both on and off the field. By saying that leadership is not just about being vocal, it’s about setting an example with your actions, whether it’s how you train or interact with others.”
U17 SA Women’s Football Captain, Katleho Malebana
“It will need many sacrifices and lots of hard work. Also, being able to be motivated and motivate others, which will be hard at times.”
Here are some added insights as you wear your power suit or sport kit, gearing up for that leadership position:
1. Cultivate Unshakable Confidence
“Confidence is your greatest asset. Trust in your expertise, and don’t hesitate to speak up in rooms where you might be the minority.”
– Lisa Baird, Former Commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League
Confidence is a recurring theme among women who’ve made it to the top in sport leadership. While systemic biases still exist, self-assurance helps women command respect and assert their ideas.
2. Build a Robust Network
“Collaboration is key. Surround yourself with a network of allies who will support, mentor, and champion you.”
– Kathy Carter, CEO of LA28
Leadership is not a solo journey. Carter emphasises the importance of building a strong network of mentors, peers, and advocates. Networking within and outside the sports industry can open doors to opportunities, amplify your voice, and provide support during challenges.
3. Challenge the Norms
“Don’t be afraid to disrupt the status quo. Women bring valuable perspectives to the table, and it’s time those perspectives shape the future of sports.”
– Dame Katherine Grainger, Chair of UK Sport
Grainger encourages women to embrace innovation and challenge outdated systems. By stepping into leadership with boldness and creativity, women can pave the way for a more inclusive and progressive sports culture.
4. Prioritise Education and Skill Development
“The more tools you have in your arsenal, the harder it is for anyone to doubt your capability.”
– Bev Priestman, Head Coach of Canada’s Women’s National Soccer Team
Priestman highlights the importance of continuously learning and growing. Whether through formal education, leadership training, or hands-on experience, staying ahead in a competitive field like sports requires constant development.
5. Advocate for Yourself and Others
“Breaking barriers isn’t just about individual success—it’s about pulling others up with you.”
– Serena Williams, Entrepreneur and International Tennis Icon
Williams, a trailblazer in sports and business, advocates for using your platform to support other women. Whether it’s mentoring, sponsoring, or pushing for equitable policies, rising leaders can create ripple effects that benefit generations to come.
Breaking the glass ceiling in sport leadership is a collective effort. While challenges remain, the contributions of trailblazing women continue to inspire and empower others to rise. As 2025 begins, let it be a year where aspiring leaders take bold steps, disrupt norms, and create a legacy of inclusion and excellence in sports leadership.
Main Photo Caption: SABC Sport Editor-in-Chief Lerato Tsolo is changing the game one story, leading a team of journalists at the Public Broadcaster to ensure that women receive adequate coverage. Tsolo advises that in order to occupy these the leadership chair, the journey starts with you! Photo: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Netball SA President Cecilia Molokwane: “Discover your purpose, and worth in life, knowing your value, and not compromising your principles.” Photo: Supplied
Photo 3 Caption: Bantwana captain Katleho Malebana: “Leadership is not just about being vocal, it’s about setting an example with your actions.” Photo: Supplied