Born in the town of Thaba ’Nchu in the Free State, Kesa Molotsane, 32, started running at the age of five, which would one day see her represent South Africa. Kesa is the chairperson of the Athletes Commission at Athletics South Africa, where she plays a crucial role advocating for the rights, wellbeing and development of athletes in all nine provinces. Her influence stretches beyond advocacy: she also manages an elite athletics club, balancing leadership, marketing, logistics and athlete mentorship. Her ability to merge sport and administration has earned her national recognition — including being named Free State Administrator of the Year (2023). She made history as the youngest team manager for South Africa at the 2021 World University Games and later as national team coach at the 2024 World University Cross Country Championships, where her team earned nearly 10 medals. Armed with qualifications in law and sport management, she is pursuing a BA Honours in anthropology and an international sport management programme. Kesa also serves on several national and university-level committees.
I look up to my mother, who has had a great influence on my role as an administrator. She is a retired teacher who served for 40 years and always guided me through my administrative, management and leadership roles. Mrs Sarina Cronje, a retired sport manager, mentored me from when I started working until her retirement in 2019. These are the two great women who have made a significant contribution to my career.