Acclaimed creative arts figure Matome Rapetsoa is to be honoured by the Hope Givers Foundation as one of this year’s Raising Legends heroes, a prestigious recognition awarded to men redefining what it means to be a positive role model in South Africa and beyond.
The Raising Legends Awards 2025 will be held at Killarney Country Club, Johannesburg, on July 25.
Matome is a playwright, director and executive producer of Awareness Industrial Theatre plays and radio dramas prepared for clients and partners through the Mahuma Group and Get Down Productions.
Described as a game-changer, captain of industry and inspiration to countless young men, Matome's recognition comes as part of the eighth annual Raising Legends Awards, hosted by the Hope Givers Foundation in collaboration with Brand South Africa, the South African Leadership Gentlemen’s Club, Contralesa and Killarney Country Club.
The Raising Legends initiative was launched to challenge and change the dominant narrative around masculinity, offering an alternative script for the African man, one rooted in leadership, care, responsibility and protection. It aims to mentor, support and groom boys to become responsible fathers, husbands, leaders and community builders.
Speaking to TshisaLIVE, Matome said he is overwhelmed with gratitude, humbled by the honour and in awe of the recognition: “It's a poignant reminder that our efforts to make a difference haven't gone unnoticed. Seeing ourselves through the eyes of others has been a profoundly moving experience and I'm deeply touched by the acknowledgment.
“This recognition reaffirms our commitment to our people and our mission. It's a resounding validation that we're on the right path and it serves as a powerful motivator to continue striving for excellence. The acknowledgment is a testament to our team's dedication and passion and it will undoubtedly fuel our future endeavours. I remain thankful to Hope Givers Foundation, the organisers of this prestigious event, for the acknowledgment. This acknowledgment resonates with one of my favourite quotes, 'aspire to inspire before you expire'.”
The awards are part of a broader intervention programme focused on tackling gender-based violence by encouraging positive masculinity. This year’s event will also include two key components:
- Take a Boy Child to Work, which provides young men with first-hand exposure to various career opportunities; and
- Raising Legends Summit, a conversation-driven platform that tackles pressing issues facing men and boys today, from mental health and financial literacy to culture and religion.
This year’s celebration promises to be bigger and better, shining a deserved spotlight on individuals such as Matome, who continue to make meaningful change in their fields and communities.
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