BLOEMFONTEIN: Matshidiso Lebona has proven her leadership qualities in becoming the first woman ever to lead the Bloemfontein-based supporters branch of premiership giants Orlando Pirates FC.
Being elected as chairperson at the annual general meeting (AGM) in March saw her break the long-standing tradition of men chosen to serve in this position.
Lebona, also referred to as “Stimela”, succeeds Pule Pitso, one of the founding members of the Buccaneers supporters branch founded in 1972 in Phahameng, Bloemfontein − making it one of the oldest in the Free State. Pitso still serves, dutifully, in the executive committee.
Lebona started at the bottom and gradually rose to the top.
“I joined the branch in 2010. After having become a member of the executive team, I held different positions, such as that of deputy secretary and secretary,” said Lebona.
“I am very happy to say that I am the first lady to serve as the chairperson. I was not surprised that the members elected me.”
Lebona believes that serving on the branch’s executive committee was beneficial in her gaining the knowledge to serve in her current position.
Other women serving on the branch’s executive team are: Tselane Ntsebe, treasurer; Ntebaleng Lechute; and Dimakatso Liketso.
The men serving on the committee include: Phantsi “Billy” Samuel, deputy chairperson; Tebogo Moremi, secretary; Mosiea Itumeleng, deputy secretary; Rasephei Remaketse, president; and Monti Blom, public relations officer.
Lebona proudly revealed that she grew up supporting Pirates − the second oldest football club in South Africa behind the Durban-based AmaZulu, which was founded in 1932, according to football history.
She said she credits her late father, Julius “Stimela” Ntholeng, and his passion that inspired her to become a die-hard supporter of the black and white Buccaneers.
“Stimela is the nickname of my late father. I inherited the name and am keeping it alive as a staunch supporter of Pirates. We are all supporters of the Orlando Pirates in my family,” said Lebona.
In terms of South African history, Stimela is a nickname referencing to coal trains, which particularly transported migrant mine labourers in the country. It is reported this was coined during major influx of mine labourers in South Africa.
