MAPHETO'S MAKGOLO KONADI TOURNAMENT: EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES AND UNLEASHING TALENT

Mpho Dube
Dec 8
2 min read

Lesedi Mapheto, Founder and Chairman of Lesedi7 Group.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

In a powerful display of community empowerment, Lesedi Mapheto, founder and chairman of Lesedi7 Group, has brought together 32 soccer teams and eight netball teams for the second annual Makgolo Konadi Tournament in Ga-Mphahlele, Limpopo Province.

The tournament, named after Mapheto's late grandmother, is a testament to his commitment to youth development and community upliftment.

The official tournament draw was held on Friday, 05 December, at Kgaganoko Primary School in Manoge, where teams were drawn into pools and fixtures were announced.

Speaking during the draw, Mapheto expressed his gratitude to all present, saying, "First of all, let me express my gratitude to all of you for your presence to bear witness to this ground-breaking initiative. I am proud to say I am a son of this soil. It seems like only yesterday when I was running on these dusty streets and I share all the memories and dreams of young people who come after me."

He emphasized the importance of sports in unleashing the potential of young people, citing Nelson Mandela's recognition of the power of sport to build a united nation. "The role of sports to unleash the dreams and potential of our young people cannot be underestimated," he said.

Mapheto highlighted the benefits of sports, including physical activity, teamwork, communication, and leadership. "At Lesedi7, we firmly believe that physical activity, and sports in particular, can positively affect aspects of personal development among young people, such as self-esteem, goal-setting, and leadership," he said.

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Dr. Meriam Molala.

The tournament is more than just a sporting event - it's a platform for talent development, community engagement, and social upliftment.

With the support of local stakeholders, including Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Dr. Meriam Molala, and Ga-Mphahlele traditional leader, Kgoshi Malekutu Thabo Phatudi-Mphahlele, the initiative is set to make a lasting impact on the community.

"We are grateful for private-sector partners such as Lesedi7 Group who recognise the needs of our communities. Their support strengthens our efforts to develop sports at grassroots level," said Mayor Molala.

The tournament will feature exciting matches, with the winning team walking away with R40 000 in prize money.

Additionally, Lesedi7 Group will donate 5 000 pairs of school shoes to underprivileged children from surrounding communities, further solidifying the initiative's commitment to community empowerment.

South African football legend, Marks Maponyane.

South African football legend, Marks Maponyane, graced the event, committing his support to the tournament and encouraging participants to maintain discipline and teamwork. "I urge all participating teams to remember that commitment and discipline are key to achieving their goals," he said.

As the tournament kicks off on December 17, the community is abuzz with excitement.

Kgoshi Malekutu Thabo Phatudi-Mphahlele, expressed his enthusiasm, "I have no doubt that there is plenty of talent here. We urge all members of the community to come out in support of the tournament."

The Makgolo Konadi Tournament is a shining example of community-led initiatives that can drive positive change. We salute Lesedi Mapheto and the Lesedi7 Group for their tireless efforts to empower communities and unleash the potential of young people.