By Precious Mupenzi.

• Christina Mamatlepa is one of the resilient and strong women honoured by the Department of Social Development this Women’s Month.
• Mamatlepa, from Ga-Femane village in Limpopo, was determined not to let her upbringing impact her future.
• ⁠Now armed with a master’s degree in project management, Mamatlepa was the first graduate in her family, inspiring those around her.

When Christina Mamatlepa graduated with her Masters in public administration, she carried more than her own dreams across the stage. She became the first graduate in her family, a milestone that shifted the course of her life and inspired those around her.

“My late mother only ever wanted me to get an education and become a better person. She believed in my abilities and pushed me to reach my full potential,” she recalls.

It was her grandmother who made that dream possible, stepping in to pay her tuition fees when her parents could not. “It was a dream come true,” she says.

The journey, however, was not smooth.

“After graduating, it took me years to get formal employment. I ended up working in retail just to gain experience until I got an internship in one of the government departments. Everything changed.

“I became strong because of my perseverance and diligence. I learnt that where there is a will, there is a way. You can accomplish anything if you set your mind to it.”

Finding purpose at the Department of Social Development

She joined the Department of Social Development in 2010 as a project administrator on contract, resigned in 2012, and returned in 2014 as a project manager.

Her decision to work in public service was not by chance.

“My desire to work in public service was primarily motivated by my desire to make a positive difference in other people’s lives, my desire to grow professionally, my need for job security, and my belief in collaboration and being relevant.”

Coming from Ga-Femane village in Limpopo, she witnessed the inequalities faced by rural women first-hand.

“Women in rural areas are frequently confronted with disparities such as limited access to essential services, job prospects, and educational opportunities. I did not want my upbringing to influence my destiny.”

At the Department of Social Development, Mamatlepa found a space that not only allowed her to serve society but also supported her growth.

“The department provides numerous opportunities, particularly in the areas of training and bursaries for continued personal development,” she says.

Taking education further

She recently completed her master’s degree in project management.

She chose this field because of its growing demand across industries and its ability to bring structure and innovation to complex work.

“I believe in networking, collaboration, and staying relevant. Project management practice is a growing field with high demand for skilled professionals across diverse industries.”

Her research was titled Building project management tools and techniques capacity to drive information and communications technology projects in the Department of Social Development.

“The aim was to understand whether project management tools and techniques guarantee the successful delivery of projects,” she explains.

Balancing her studies with full-time work and family responsibilities was not easy.

“Time management was the biggest challenge. I had a supportive family and colleagues who helped by taking on some of my responsibilities so that service delivery was not impacted.”

She adds that success required prioritisation, discipline, and self-care.

Research with a purpose

Mamatlepa’s published paper reflects her commitment to strengthening project delivery in the public service.

“The study argues that current project management practices can be improved to ensure greater success in delivering ICT projects, and it seeks to explore alternative tools and techniques that can enhance project outcomes in the Department of Social Development,” she explains.

Her research emphasises the importance of aligning strategies, using systems more effectively, and building the right skills among project teams.

She also highlights the need for stronger governance and better communication to keep projects on track. “What is most important is ensuring that projects are well planned, well managed, and contribute to the overall goals of the department,” Mamatlepa says.

Women, leadership, and inspiration

Being a woman in public service makes her achievements even more meaningful.

“It is possible if you are really determined and ready to network,” she says. Her advice to other women in the department is clear: “There is no age limit or boundaries to stop anyone from pursuing postgraduate or any other studies. Determination and discipline are key.”

Mamatlepa is quick to acknowledge the role of the Department of Social Development in her journey. “The department supported me by offering a bursary, which removed the stress of financial burdens. I was also given study leave to attend to all my study-related matters.”

As August is dedicated to honouring the resilience and strength of women, the Department of Social Development celebrates Mamatlepa’s determination and academic journey as a symbol of perseverance.

Her story demonstrates how the department’s bursary programme is not just an investment in individuals but also a tool to maximise opportunities, uplift women, and empower future leaders who will continue shaping the public service.

A message of strength and possibility

Mamatlepa’s journey is far from over.

She is already exploring further academic opportunities and actively seeking scholarships and bursaries to continue her studies.

More than her own ambitions, however, she sees her legacy in inspiring other women to pursue education and leadership roles, even when faced with gender barriers.

For her, Women’s Month is both recognition and a call to action.

“It is to honour and acknowledge women’s historical, cultural, and societal contributions while also drawing attention to their continuous fight for equality and independence,” she says.

Her message to women is one of unity and courage: “Women can overcome any obstacles and create a better future by standing together and supporting one another.”

Asked who inspired her, she does not hesitate. “My late mother inspired me a lot. All she needed was for me to get an education and become a better person. She believed in my abilities and instilled confidence and a desire to reach my full potential.”