Seen Here: Kgomotso Sharon Raselabe is using the power of education and PEP mini Netball to change young lives across Mpumalanga. As Provincial Special Projects Convener for SASN, she continues to champion opportunities for young learners, helping every child feel seen, supported and capable of achieving more both in the classroom and on the netball court. Photo Credit: Supplied
MALALANE, Mpumalanga – For Kgomotso Sharon Raselabe, every whistle blown on a netball court and every lesson taught in a classroom represents another opportunity to shape a young life.
As Provincial Special Projects Convener of the Mpumalanga Schools Netball Committee under South African Schools Netball (SASN), Raselabe has become one of the driving forces behind the PEP mini Netball programme, using sport as a powerful tool to nurture confidence, discipline and opportunity among South Africa’s youngest learners.
Her work extends far beyond coaching netball.
It is about helping children discover their potential, building self-belief from an early age and creating environments where every learner—particularly those who are often overlooked—has the opportunity to thrive.
An unexpected journey into education
Raselabe never imagined that teaching would become her life’s calling.
While unemployed, she regularly attended meetings at her children’s school. During one of those meetings, a teacher noticed her natural ability to engage with learners and parents and encouraged her to step in as a substitute teacher.
What started as a temporary opportunity quickly evolved into a lifelong passion.
Standing in front of a classroom, she realised she had found where she truly belonged.
Her career later flourished at Laerskool Malelane, where former principal Gerhadus Jansen van Rensburg recognised her potential and encouraged her to pursue teaching professionally while continuing her studies.
His mentorship helped lay the foundation for a career dedicated to developing young minds.
Building futures through sport
Today, Raselabe combines her passion for education with her commitment to sport development through the PEP mini Netball programme.
Working closely with schools, communities and coaches across Mpumalanga, she focuses on introducing children to netball during their formative years, believing that the foundation phase is where lifelong confidence, resilience and teamwork begin.
She also mentors coaches, encouraging them to create positive, inclusive and enjoyable sporting environments where every child feels welcomed and valued.
Rather than measuring success solely through wins and losses, Raselabe believes the greatest victories happen when children discover confidence, friendship and a sense of belonging.
Every child deserves to be seen
Central to Raselabe’s philosophy is the belief that no child should ever be overlooked.
She pays particular attention to quieter learners and those who may struggle to find their voice, ensuring they receive the encouragement needed to flourish both academically and on the netball court.
Reflecting on her journey, Raselabe says teaching and coaching have become more than careers—they have become her purpose.
“I used to run away from teaching, but the moment I stepped into a classroom I realised this is where I belong. Every day since then has confirmed that working with children is not just a job for me—it is something I was meant to do. I hope that every child I work with feels seen, supported and capable of more than they think they are.”
Leading by example
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Raselabe is also a single mother of five who continues to invest in her own education.
She is currently completing an Honours degree specialising in the Psychology of Education, strengthening her understanding of how children learn and develop while balancing family life with leadership responsibilities in education and school sport.
Her commitment to lifelong learning mirrors the values she seeks to instil in every learner she mentors.
More than a game
The PEP mini Netball programme continues to play a vital role in introducing thousands of young South Africans to organised sport while promoting teamwork, confidence, healthy lifestyles and leadership from an early age.
For dedicated leaders like Raselabe, the programme represents far more than developing future netball stars.
It is about creating opportunities, inspiring dreams and equipping young people with the confidence to succeed both on and off the court.
Looking ahead, Raselabe hopes to expand her impact across education and school sport, ensuring even more children—particularly those from disadvantaged communities—receive the support and encouragement they deserve.
For her, every lesson taught, every training session delivered and every child inspired is another reminder that purpose is found not in titles, but in transforming lives.
Through PEP mini Netball, Kgomotso Sharon Raselabe is proving that the greatest victories are not always recorded on the scoreboard—they are reflected in the confidence, hope and brighter futures of the children she serves.
