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. Earlier we looked at the first Ms Pinky Lehoko, SAFA’s General Manager of Corporate Services as well as the association’s Assistant Technical Director, Ms Fran Hilton-Smith. Take a look at who we speak to next:

     

Ms TSHIKANI BALOYI –  OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT: SAFA PRESIDENT / FIFA WORLD CUP LEGACY TRUST OFFICE

I joined SAFA in 2006 as part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee.

I fell in love with football at the age of six, when the only team that we knew in our family was Orlando Pirates F.C.

I am responsible for the day to day running of Office of the President; Dr Danny Jordaan

Some of my fondest memories in football have been as a spectator during the 1996 CAF African Cup of Nations Final and being a member of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee. The joy we brought to the hearts of South Africans was priceless. I was proud to have shown the world that Africa is capable of.

I believe being a woman gives me an advantage in my job because I can multi-task. I am a team player; which is fundamentally important in sport.

What I enjoy/love the most about working in football is being part of change in all sporting codes.  

 

Ms SEKGANYA LEBENYA – ADMINISTRATOR: 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP LECACY OFFICE

I joined SAFA in 2009, ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup; which then became the 2010 FIFA World Cup Legacy Trust.

I fell in love with football at the age of 15 because I loved the company of my father and football was the only thing we both really enjoyed. 

I am responsible for funding applications for all SAFA structures. It is my responsibility to make sure that all Regions and Local Football Associations (LFA’s) comply with the required standards and processes. Once their applications are approve, it is my responsibility to ensure the programs are running.

One of my fondest memories in football has been working in the CEO’s office during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This gave me the opportunity to learn more about the administration of football, the behind the scenes work and how much work goes into preparing for a match.

I believe being a woman gives me an advantage in my job because I believe the future belongs to those who believe.

What I enjoy/love the most about working in football is the diversity in football. Football chose me and I fell in love with it.