“Women are the backbone of our societies and communities, and it is crucial to acknowledge that we would be nowhere without the contributions of our mothers, sisters and friends,” says Okuhle Mpepo, a Political Sciences honours student at the University of Pretoria (UP) and study finance officer on the Temporary Student Council. This powerful belief drives her not just in her studies but also in her dynamic role as a leader within the UP community.

Mpepo, who grew up in East London as the eldest of five children, says her background shaped her approach to leadership. Her passion for social justice and commitment to serving others stem from her early experiences and family values. It was this foundation that partly led her to pursue an honours degree in Political Science at UP; her decision was also inspired by a high school visit that revealed the University’s vibrant campus life and rigorous academic environment.

“I loved how lively the campus and students were, and I was confident that the quality of education and academic environment would challenge me in new ways as a student,” she says.

As the study finance officer on the Temporary Student Council (TSC) at UP, Mpepo plays a crucial role in administering the Study Aid Fund. She ensures that students facing financial difficulties receive assistance with registration fees, historical debt and other academic expenses. Her responsibilities also include coordinating fundraising activities and representing the TSC on the University’s Senate. She took up this role with a vision for meaningful change.

“I was motivated to run for office as I had identified significant areas of improvement within my portfolio, and believed I had the expertise and plans to offer some improvement,” Mpepo explains.

Her leadership journey is characterised by a series of impactful roles. She served on the executive committee for the Post-Anthropology Movement as a first-year representative and Vice-Chairperson in 2020 and 2021. She then took on significant roles within House Humanities, including culture and socials officer, Vice-Chairperson and Chairperson between 2021 and 2023. These positions have deepened her understanding of leadership as a service-oriented endeavour, where small, everyday actions can make a significant difference.

“Leadership is about being there for others, understanding their needs and taking action, however small, to assist them in their daily lives,” she says.

One of the greatest challenges Mpepo has faced is managing the overwhelming desire to address every issue that students encounter.

“As a student leader, it’s natural to want to address all these issues. However, I quickly realised that this approach was not only impractical but could also lead to significant resistance from various stakeholders.”

This realisation led her to prioritise her efforts, focusing on achievable goals to prevent burnout and foster sustainable change.

In celebration of Women’s Month, Mpepo emphasises the importance of honouring remarkable women and learning from their stories.

“There are many women who have inspired me, but two stand out in particular,” she says. “My grandmother has always been a beacon of resilience and wisdom, and is my biggest role model. As a lecturer, she not only instilled in me a love for learning but also taught me the importance of asserting myself in academic spaces. Her strength and perseverance continue to guide me in my journey. In the realm of politics and international relations, former Minister Naledi Pandor has been a significant influence. Her exemplary conduct of South Africa’s foreign affairs demonstrated the impact that women can have when they occupy political spaces.”

Mpepo’s message to the UP community is clear and empowering: “Women should live authentically and unapologetically, embracing their individuality and asserting their rightful place in the world.”

She hopes to be remembered as a student leader who was active and visible when it counted – not just when it was time to look presentable – and as a conscientious leader who represented the interests of students at every level.