By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kaizer Chiefs Executive Chairman, Dr. Kaizer Motaung, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 23rd Oliver Top Empowerment Awards ceremony at the Empire Conference and Events Venue in Johannesburg on Thursday evening, 18 July.
The awards ceremony is held annually. The significance of the award is to recognise South Africans who demonstrate vision, leadership, and action for empowerment and transformation.
Previous receipients of the accolade includes President Cyril Ramaphosa, former president Thabo Mbeki, the late Dr Richard Maponya, the late Mary Twala, Trevor Manuel, Naledi Pandor, Dr Anna Mokgokong, Dr Matthews Phosa, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Prof. Thuli Madonsela.
The highlight of the evening came when Topco Media CEO, Ralf Fletcher, made the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, praising The Chairman for his vital role in transforming the South African football landscape over more than five decades by inspiring and empowering people from all walks of life, extending far beyond the field.
“Dr. Motaung is a true embodiment of empowerment and his dedication to creating opportunities for all has inspired countless individuals. We take great pleasure in presenting him with this prestigious award, “Fletcher said.
The Chairman did not attend in person and was represented by his son, Bobby Motaung, who received the award on his father’s behalf.
However, The Chairman did express his appreciation for the recognition in typically modest fashion.
“I am extremely honoured to have this illustrious award bestowed on me,” said Motaung. “And to be held up alongside such august company, people who have made such immense contributions to the positive development of South African society, is a truly proud yet humbling moment for me.”
“I wish to express my gratitude to those who deemed me worthy of this accolade. That it also happens to coincide with Mandela Day makes it all the more poignant and meaningful for me.”
“We stand as an example of what can be achieved through establishing strong foundations and creating conditions that are conducive to presenting opportunities for genuine, authentic empowerment. Where the immense latent talent that resides within our borders can be developed to fulfil its full potential. And upon which each subsequent generation should be built and advanced.”