Letlhogonolo Mamabolo’s journey from Tlhabane, Rustenburg, to national leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to justice, empowerment and service. Growing up with dreams of becoming a lawyer, Letlhogonolo’s passion for advocacy led him into politics, where he served as a public representative candidate — gaining vital experience in governance, accountability and listening to communities. At 32, he channels that experience into grassroots activism as the founder and president of Youth First SA, a non-profit organisation committed to equipping young people to lead their communities. Youth First SA has launched career guidance workshops, community projects and youth leadership summits. Letlhogonolo also runs Rusty News, an online platform providing free advertising and marketing for young entrepreneurs. He believes leadership is rooted in integrity, service and walking alongside those you aim to uplift. Inspired by figures like Nelson Mandela, Letlhogonolo remains grounded in his mission. “The best advice I’ve ever received is to never forget why you started,” he reflects. His unwavering belief in the potential of youth drives him: “It’s not about personal success — it’s about impact, legacy and creating opportunities.”
Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree, University of South Africa
One of the key milestones in this career was serving as a community leader — a role that provided firsthand experience in leadership, governance and advocating for the community at a national level. It reinforced the importance of accountability, listening to the needs of the people and making decisions that serve the greater good. Another proud achievement has been founding Youth First SA. Under this leadership, youth mentorship programmes, career guidance workshops and community outreach initiatives have been successfully launched, impacting hundreds of young people, especially in under-resourced areas. Partnerships with schools, local businesses and other NPOs have expanded reach and effectiveness. A project of particular pride involved organising a youth leadership summit that brought together aspiring young leaders from across Rustenburg to learn, connect and be inspired. Seeing them leave more confident and empowered served as a reminder of the importance of this work.
I look up to leaders who have remained grounded, service-driven and committed to justice, even when faced with challenges. One of my greatest inspirations is Nelson Mandela — not just for his political leadership, but for his humility, forgiveness and unwavering belief in the power of youth and education to change a nation. I have also been blessed with mentors in both the political and non-profit space — individuals who believed in me, challenged me and helped shape my vision. They taught me that leadership is about serving with integrity, staying rooted in your purpose and never losing touch with the people you aim to uplift.