Dr Muvhuso Maimela has been elected Treasurer of the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in Limpopo, marking a move away from the youth's past tendency to be led by the less qualified.
Hailing from Mashamba village in Vhembe District, Limpopo, Dr Maimela (30) is a mental-health-care practitioner at a tertiary psychiatric hospital. She holds a bachelor of medicine and bachelor of surgery from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, a diploma in mental health from the College of Psychiatrists of South Africa, and a diploma in office computing from Arise Business College.
"I feel honoured and do not take lightly the trust placed in me by young people. We need educated politicians who understand today's challenges and can execute plans for the liberation of Limpopo's people," she said. "Leadership requires understanding and compassion. While some who fought during difficult times lack qualifications, they should not be sidelined — we need each other."
Her message to the youth is clear: "Find your purpose or passion and nurture it. When choosing degrees, ask yourself if it enables self-employment. We need innovative young people ready to create jobs to reduce unemployment. Not everyone is meant to be business-oriented, but whatever you do, do it well."
Dr Maimela noted that Mashamba had produced notable figures such as Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and artist Makhadzi, showing the village's potential. "I owe it all to God Almighty. If it is meant to be, it shall be," she concluded.