15 August 2017 – In celebration of Women’s month, the South African Football Association (SAFA) is honouring some of the great women that are involved in the daily operations of the association. Today we look at the first two women who have served the game dilligently over the years.
MS PINKY LEHOKO – GENERAL MANAGER: CORPORATE SERVICES
I joined SAFA in 1993.
I fell in love with football before I was even born. My grandfather and uncles were diehard football fans.
I am responsible for SAFA’s player status and transfer, international affairs, logistics, membership affairs, legal & compliance, safety, security & protocol.
One of my fondest memories in football has been South Africa winning the 1996 CAF African Cup of Nations, and us participating in our first FIFA World Cup in France 1998.
I believe being a woman gives me an advantage in my job because it has made me stronger.
What I enjoy/love the most about working in football is interacting with sister federations.
MS FRAN HILTON- SMITH –SAFA ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR: WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
I joined SAFA in 1989, but only became full time 10 years later in 1999.
I fell in love with football at the age of nine years old.
I am responsible for Women’s Football and the running of the SAFA TUKS High Performance Centre for 25 female footballers.
One of my fondest memories in football has been was definitely the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
I believe being a woman gives me an advantage in my job because I try harder.
What I enjoy/love the most about working in football is empowering women in football through coaching, refereeing and administration.