Mrs Universe South Africa 2024 finalist and legal practitioner Fadzi Ledwaba.

Legal practitioner, Fadzi Ledwaba, entered Mrs Universe South Africa 2024 to become an ambassador for women and children who are victims of domestic violence within the Republic of South Africa. Ms Ledwaba, who hails from Musina in Limpopo, describes herself as a loving, God-fearing, family and goal-oriented woman, a fitness enthusiast, and a professional yet assertive individual. She holds an LLB degree, which she attained from the University of Limpopo, LLM (Private Law) and MBA from the University of South Africa, Executive Development certificate from Wits Business School, and Compliance Management certificate from the University of Pretoria. Ms Ledwaba is an attorney, conveyancer, notary public and governance practitioner.

Kgomotso Ramotsho (KR): Why did you choose to study law?

Fadzi Ledwaba (FL): I chose law as I am passionate about legislation development, assisting clients through various legal interventions, and making a difference where it matters, for public purpose and in the public interest.

KR: What made you want to enter the Mrs South Africa pageant?

FL: I want to become an ambassador for women and children who have been or are victims of domestic violence within the Republic of South Africa. I also want to assist in the implementation and execution of tangible legal resolutions that will assist victims of domestic violence within the country. I want to raise awareness through public education on different types of domestic violence, preventative measures and breaking the silence in early stages of domestic violence and collaborate with strategic partners to assist victims of domestic violence promptly.

My goals also include –

• women empowerment and leadership through economic transformation opportunities and health initiatives;
• advocating for policy changes and social justice; and
• motivating women that through self-love, commitment and teamwork nothing is impossible, women can have a career, study, be wives, be mothers and still look as beautiful as a beauty queen. Do not limit yourself, live your life and execute your dreams.

KR: Do you think your legal skills would be beneficial to your Mrs Universe South Africa journey, if so in what way?

FL: The legal skills will be beneficial to the Mrs Universe South Africa pageant, as we will utilise the platform to eliminate domestic violence through collaboration with strategic partners, and legally sound mechanisms, which are in line with the legislation and international standards, in the public interest and for public purpose. Always remember that: ‘If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader’ – John Quincy Adams.

My passion for growth and learning has led me to pursue my PhD, demonstrating my commitment to lifelong education. I am a free spirited individual, grounded in faith, with a flexible and friendly demeanour that belies my assertive and professional approach. As a proud finalist for Mrs Universe South Africa 2024, I aim to inspire fellow women to chase their dreams, embracing the notion that anything is possible with education and perseverance. I embody the spirit of empowerment, and I am excited to make a meaningful impact.

Kgomotso Ramotsho Cert Journ (Boston) Cert Photography (Vega) is the news reporter at De Rebus.