Noluthando Lembede: Empowering lives and embracing her legacy

In the heart of Free State province, Noluthando Lembede shines as a beacon of resilience and empowerment.

From humble beginnings in Welkom to becoming a trailblazing motivational speaker and businesswoman, her journey is a testament to overcoming adversity and making a significant impact.

As a daughter of a renowned pastor, a survivor of abuse, and a passionate advocate for women and youth, Lembede’s story is one of triumph, faith, and relentless pursuit of purpose.

Noluthando Lembede’s narrative is far from the stereotypical perception of a life of privilege.

Born in Klerksdorp but raised in Welkom from the age of six, her childhood was marked by struggle and resilience. “Many people think I grew up with a silver spoon,” she reflects, “but my upbringing was tough. My family faced numerous challenges. My mother sold cookie crumbs to buy our first car, and my father was frequently away on ministry work.”

Despite the hardships, her parents instilled in her the values of hard work, strategic thinking, and unwavering faith. These experiences, while difficult, provided a solid foundation that shaped her into the person she is today.

Being the daughter of a prominent pastor presented its own set of challenges. Noluthando recalls, “To many, my father was a Great Legend, but to me, he was just Dad. The expectations placed on me were enormous. I struggled with the pressure to meet these expectations and often felt confined by the legacy I was expected to uphold.”

Her journey of self-discovery was not without its battles. She describes a period of rebellion and struggle against the constraints that sought to define her, yet she acknowledges the honor and privilege of being part of such a distinguished lineage.

In 2014, Noluthando took a courageous step towards healing and empowerment by founding the Women of Authority initiative.

This program was born out of her personal experiences with abuse and a desire to help others reclaim their voices and authority. “I had to accept and overcome my past to help others do the same,” she explains. “The Authority part signifies taking back control over one’s life and moving from being a victim to a victor.”

Her initiative focuses on restoring and rebuilding the confidence of women, and while it honors the role of men in society, it aims to empower women to take charge of their own destinies.

Alongside her husband, Noluthando also launched the Game Changers Initiative. This program aims to support students and young professionals as they navigate their careers and ambitions.

Through the Game Changers Annual Conference, they bring influential speakers to inspire and guide the younger generation, helping them find their footing and realize their potential.

For young women currently on their path of self-discovery, Noluthando offers this advice: “Understand your purpose in life. Engage in introspection to find what comes naturally to you. The answers are not out there but within you.” She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and encourages young people to pursue their dreams with conviction.

Lembede’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience, faith, and a strong support system can turn adversity into opportunity. Through her initiatives, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her, proving that with determination and purpose, one can indeed change lives and leave a lasting impact.