Her Majesty Queen Neo Mononela-Mopeli
Nominee's Province:
Free State
Project Name/Description:
Bakoena Royal Council and Likoena tsa Bakoena Foundation
Compassionate, respected leader, rooted in service, empowering others, putting dignity first – these are some of the words that Mononela-Mopeli has been described with by her community. Her inspirational work across the Free State has seen her receive praise from young people seeking work, from helping out communities with food parcel donations, Her pioneering works have seen her go beyond the call of duty as she improved the lives of families, focusing on rural communities where resources are scarce. Her Majesty, born in Polokwane, is the distinguished Queen Consort (Mofumahali oa Morena e Moholo) of the Bakoena Kingship in the Free State. Married to His Majesty Morena e Moholo: Moremoholo Mopeli, her role is that of advancing the royal household’s vision, focusing on youth empowerment, education, and sustainable community development. On education, she leads academic and career expos that connect learners with universities, bursary opportunities, and professional mentors, opening doors for young people to pursue their dreams. An admitted attorney of the High Court, Mononela-Mopeli is also a Council Member of the National Arts Council, where her leadership bridges cultural preservation with legal insight, ensuring that South African arts remain a vital tool for identity, empowerment, and nation-building. Queen Mopeli’s tireless philanthropic work has earned her national recognition. She is a proud finalist in the Forty Under 40 Awards under the Charity and Philanthropy category. She says: "I wake up each day with a mission, not for my legacy to be defined by titles, crowns, or wealth, but by the lives I’ve touched, the people I’ve uplifted, and the hope I’ve helped restore for a better tomorrow for all those who cross my path.”
