Liyema Letlaka has stepped into her new role as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Southern African Endurance Series (SAES) with a clear vision and a profound enthusiasm for motorsport.
As one of the few women to hold such a prestigious position in an industry traditionally dominated by men, Letlaka says she sees her appointment as a pivotal moment, not just for herself but for future generations of female leaders.
Reflecting on her aspirations, she shared with the Saturday Star her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in motorsport.
“I live in a generation where we are seeing female leaders take up space and contribute towards the development of other young leaders. Leaders such as Cde Siviwe Gwarube, our minister of basic education, and Cde Bertha Mour, deputy minister of sports, arts and culture. These are the kinds of female leaders that share my passion for inclusivity and the kind of women who can help to find more ways to build the next generation of female leaders, having their ideas and voices heard in important spaces.”
Letlaka's passion for motorsport ignited back in her childhood, where she found her footing in the karting club at Zwartkops, becoming the only girl on the team. “I think that’s where I fell in love with motorsport. I gave them a run for their money. This is one of the reasons why my appointment was a defining moment (again showing me that there is a space for a young woman like me to make an impact) not just in regard to the Series but for motorsport in southern Africa as a whole, where I see the opportunity to help shape the next chapter and the generation of young people in the industry.” she reminisced.
Her pioneering spirit serves as a beacon for young women aspiring to enter the field, as her new role also represents a significant opportunity for positive change in the motorsport industry across the region.
When asked about her vision for SAES, Letlaka expressed a commitment to driving “a new strategic, impactful, and young direction”.
She envisions SAES as an inclusive organisation that resonates with diverse audiences and becomes a cornerstone of the motorsport community in South Africa and beyond.
“Whether it’s via education similar to what STEM could do for motorsport, expanding partnerships, visibility or technology capabilities, I plan to employ many young, qualified and capable people,” said Letlaka.
Her ambitions are equally audacious; she aims to cultivate a robust supply of young talent entering the sport, whether they are visible on the track or behind the scenes in vital roles such as sport physicians, engineers, or mechanics. “The reality is that young people are the future of the sport, and I plan to make that happen,” Letlaka affirmed, highlighting her determination to inspire the next generation.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star