Sports Leadership
Full Name: Ria Ledwaba
Nickname: “Manyara” (Petty Thieves)
Place of Birth: Limpopo, South Africa
Profession: Sports Personality, Businesswoman, Football Club Owner
Notable Contributions:
– Vice President of the South African Football Association (SAFA)
– CEO of Gree Products SA
– Founder of Ria Stars Football Club
– Chairperson of Women’s Football at SAFA
– Founder of the Ria Ledwaba Foundation
Early Life
Ria Ledwaba was born in Limpopo, South Africa. She grew up in a household full of boys, which naturally led her to develop a passion for football. She is the only girl and the last-born child of her parents.
Education
Ledwaba attended schools in South Africa, although she has not publicly disclosed her educational background. Despite this, she has reached leadership positions that require academic and professional expertise.
Career
Business Leadership
– CEO of Gree Products SA, the only black woman importer of Heating, Ventilation, and Air-conditioning (HVAC) systems in South Africa
– Owner of the Ifihlile Training Academy, which has trained technicians and artisans in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning trades since 2008
Football Contributions
– Founder of **Ria Stars Football Club**, which competed in the Premier Soccer League (PSL)
– First black female Vice-President of **SAFA**
– Served as **Chairperson of Women’s Football at SAFA**
– Key force behind the creation of the **first Women’s National League** in South Africa
– Match Commissioner for the **Confederation of African Football (CAF)**
Philanthropy
Ria Ledwaba founded the **Ria Ledwaba Foundation** to support South African youth in sports and empower women to overcome abuse. Her foundation actively fights **gender-based violence (GBV)** and promotes women’s rights.
Personal Life
Ledwaba is married and has two children. She is admired for her resilience, community commitment, and ability to thrive in male-dominated industries.
Legacy
Ria Ledwaba is a true trailblazer in South African football and business. Her barrier-breaking leadership and dedication to women’s empowerment have left a lasting legacy. Her accolades include:
– **Business Woman of the Year** (1999)
– **Excellence Award** from the Limpopo Provincial Government (2018/2019)
Seen here with Natasha Tsichlas
Summary Profile
Name: Ria Ledwaba
Place of Birth: Limpopo, South Africa
Profession: Football Administrator, Businesswoman
Key Contributions:
– SAFA Vice President
– Founder of Ria Stars FC
– Chairperson of SAFA Women’s Football
– First Women’s National League advocate
– CAF Match Commissioner
– CEO of Gree Products SA
– Philanthropist
Accolades:
