Dr Ria Ledwaba

Executive Chairperson

Ria Ledwaba is a Mother of three and a multi- business & sport award winner, including life achiever award by Department of Sports, Arts and Culture in Gauteng. She has broken barriers in the male dominated industries. As a leader and pioneer, she is the founder of Ria Stars Football Club. The first female Vice President of South African Football Association (SAFA). She successfully facilitated the establishment of the first Women National League in South Africa. She is the founder of Ria Ledwaba Foundation and soon to be author, as we await the release of her first book titled ” Not without a struggle.” She recently received her honorary doctorate from Emmanuel University of Theology.

Mr Marks Maponyane

Marks Maponyane is the Kaizer Chiefs all-time leading goal scorer with 89+ goals.

Internationally – Played for Vitoria Setubal in Portugal and Grasshopper Zurich in Switzerland.

In his 18 years of professional football, he made 433 appearances and scored 168 goals. Marks also works for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) as; Soccer analyst on Radio 2000  and Soccer analyst on Television. Marks Maponyane’s legacy is not just about goals—it’s about leadership, resilience, and inspiring generations.

Prof. P Tembe

Prof. Paul Zilungisele Tembe is a South African academic and linguist known for his work on Chinese-South African relations and Chinese governance. Academic Focus – He specializes in Chinese philosophy, governance, and international relations, particularly through a South African lens.His work often bridges cultural and political understanding between South Africa and China. Notable Publications – “Xi Jinping Thought – Through South African Eyes”: This book offers a South African perspective on the political philosophy of China’s president, Xi Jinping.“Silk and Knots of Chinese Governance”: A deep dive into China’s ancient traditions and modern governance, exploring how historical threads shape contemporary policy. His writings aim to clarify and contextualize the evolving relationship between South Africa and China, especially in the context of BRICS and global diplomacy.

Ms Mary Mateu Mabotja

My name is Mary Mateu Mabotja, I’m an admittedAdvocate of the High Court of South Africa. With over15 years of experience in litigation, I have developed astrong background in both High Court andMagistrate Court proceedings, handling complexcases in Personal Injury claims, Unlawful Arrest andDetention, Malicious Prosecution, MedicalNegligence, and General Litigation work.

Currently, I am a practicing Advocate at DumaNokwe Group of Advocates and and a member theNorthwest Bar. I continue to be dedicated to myprofession and strive to make a positive impact in thelegal landscape.

Ms M.Ramathula

Moonira Ramathula—often affectionately called “Mo”—is a dynamic force in South African sports, known for her tireless advocacy for women’s participation and leadership in athletics.
Founder & Chairperson of Futballing Girls NPO: A grassroots initiative aimed at empowering young girls through football across Gauteng Province.
Organizer of the Gauteng Women In Sports Awards: Celebrates women who have made significant contributions to sports development in their communities.
Played a key role during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, helping coordinate team transport logistics—her first major exposure to sports tourism.
Talk Show Host: Leads discussions on women in sport.
Chief Editor of Spotlight on Women in Sport, a digital magazine amplifying female voices in athletics.

Skilled in digital marketing, video production, and creative direction, using media to elevate stories of women in sport

Tienie vd Merwe

Director Operations

Tienie joined SAGOL in 2019. Tienie is the Director Operations. He has extensive experience in business management and worked for Xerox as Branch Manager. During his time as Franchise owner in the ITC industry, he achieved various accolades as being one of the top 10 franchises in the country. His immense negotiation and relations building skills attributes immensely to this organisation

Alpheus Matlou

Director Arts Culture and Heritage

Joined the arts culture and heritage during 1993 as a Museum assistant at the Pretoria Art Museum and moved to the National Cultural history museum in 1994 to 2007as a Musicologist in the area of Research education, conservation and Exhibition. He Joined the City of Tshwane in 2007 to 2019 responsible for Arts Culture and heritage encompassing events management, facilities management and programme management, Educational Background : Museum and Technology Diploma (TRSA) BA(UNISA) Pgd Museum and Heritage (UP) Pdc Heritage Resources Management (RU)