A Legendary Night of Change at the 8th Annual Raising Legends Awards
On Friday, 25 July 2025 an electrifying atmosphere pulsed through the Killarney Country Club on a night bursting with optimism and inspiration. Guests dressed in sharp suits and stylish bow ties, The 8th Annual Raising Legends Awards celebrated and crowned Mzansi trailblazers.
Hosted by the Hope Givers Foundation, this prestigious event paid tribute to remarkable individuals whose tireless work serves as a beacon in Mzansi.
“We are genuinely honoured to celebrate these exceptional men and their organisations,” says Tsakani Mkhari, Founder of Raising Legends Awards. “Their unwavering commitment to mentorship and community building is shaping a new generation of responsible leaders.”
The night beamed with the presence of esteemed legends such as Herman Mashaba, Collen Mashawana, and Dr. Mpho Malatji, each a cornerstone in the narrative of positive masculinity in South Africa. The Raising Legends initiative propels change through inspiring mentorship and leadership programs, encouraging vital conversations about healthier relationships among men and young boys.
The awards celebrated outstanding achievements in key categories:
Community Builders & NPOs: Stuart Ledwala, this year’s overall winner and co-founder of Maraba Reviving Hope Multipurpose Centre, Mr Ledwala connects disadvantaged and privileged youth, offering life skills and entrepreneurial training.
Academia & Innovations: Dimpho Xaba, a farmer, lecturer, and beekeeper, Mr Xaba empowers youth through initiatives in agriculture, igniting their passion for the field.
Sport, Arts & Entertainment: Courage Nkuna, a soccer player and marathon runner, Mr Nkuna champions rural football as captain of Emmanuel FC, mentoring aspiring athletes with passion and expertise.
Influencers: Rigo Lion, award-winning content creator Mr Lion harnesses innovative storytelling to engage communities and drive social change, making an impact in the digital space.
Politics: Tshepo Shogole, as Provincial Secretary of SASCO in Limpopo, Mr Shogole advocates for educational rights, leading initiatives that enhance the academic landscape for students.
Business: Sakkie Kwakwa is a Founder of Chillers on Wheels, a company that is revolutionising mobile sanitation in South Africa, providing dignified solutions that prioritise community well-being.
“These Awards are a powerful reminder that true leadership begins with compassion and action. By playing our part, especially in guiding the boy child we build safer communities and a stronger, united South Africa,” says Vumani Sibiya, Chief Financial Officer (Acting) of Brand South Africa.”
The 8th Annual Raising Legends Awards evening was more than an awards ceremony, it was a vibrant celebration of the incredible power of positive influence in our communities, a night that showcased not just awards but a powerful transformation toward a more compassionate society.
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