By: Puseletso Maqoaelane
Maseru
Puseletso Jobo, the senior striker for Kick4Life Ladies Football Club, is making waves not only for her exceptional skills on the football pitch but also for her significant contributions off the field as an administration trainee at Kick4Life Social Enterprise.
Known for her remarkable goal-scoring ability, Jobo earned the title of top scorer in the Lesotho Women’s Super League (WSL) during her debut season in 2022/23. This impressive achievement garnered her the Fans’ Favorite Player award at the highly regarded Ladies in a Men-Dominated Game event, solidifying her status as a rising star in women’s football.
However, Jobo’s journey is about more than just accolades and recognition; it embodies the intersection of sports, education, and social change. Growing up in Lesotho, she always harbored a desire to address social issues and be a catalyst for positive change in her community. This passion led her to Kick4Life, a football club that stands out for its commitment to using sports as a vehicle for social transformation. “Being part of Kick4Life is a blessing,” Jobo shares. “Their Fit4Work & Play program has transformed me professionally, personally, and spiritually.”
Jobo’s academic background plays a pivotal role in her development as both an athlete and a professional. She graduated from the National University of Lesotho (NUL) with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Public Administration. This education has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge necessary to understand and address societal challenges. However, Jobo emphasizes that real learning happens beyond the classroom. “While I learned theory in the classroom, Kick4Life gave me hands-on experience as an administrative assistant trainee,” she explains, detailing her journey from the Academy to her current role in the Social Enterprise.
In her administrative role, Jobo acquires invaluable skills that not only enhance her employability but also enable her to contribute meaningfully to Kick4Life’s mission. The combination of practical experience and academic knowledge positions her as a well-rounded professional, ready to tackle various challenges. “This experience is crucial for my career,” Jobo notes. “It allows me to blend my passion for sports with my desire to create social change.”
Beyond her administrative work, Jobo is deeply involved in Kick4Life’s Girls United program, which focuses on empowering girls and young women. As a character development facilitator and life skills coach, she plays a critical role in educating participants about sexual and reproductive health, rights awareness, and tools to combat gender-based violence. “I believe that empowering young women is essential for building a better future,” she asserts. “Through this program, I aim to inspire them to take charge of their lives and understand their rights.”
Jobo’s dedication to this cause reflects her broader vision of how sports can contribute to social development. She sees her role not just as an athlete but as a mentor and advocate for change. “As a career-driven athlete, I aim to contribute to sports in ways that extend beyond just playing,” she states proudly. “Kick4Life has given me a taste of that dream, allowing me to achieve my academic and athletic potential while making a difference in my community.”
Kick4Life’s approach to player development is holistic, focusing on more than just athletic performance. The organization emphasizes the importance of instilling positive values and fostering a service-minded attitude among its participants.
Country Director Motlatsi Nkhahle expresses his pride in the program’s success. “Our goal is to develop more than just players,” he states. “We aim to promote a growth mindset and support young people like Puseletso on their transformative journeys.”
This philosophy resonates with Jobo, who acknowledges the positive impact of being part of an organization that prioritizes social responsibility. “Kick4Life creates an environment where we are encouraged to grow as individuals and athletes,” she explains. This supportive atmosphere empowers players to pursue their dreams while remaining grounded in their commitment to their communities.
While Jobo’s journey is inspiring, it is not without challenges. Balancing the demands of being a professional athlete with her responsibilities as an administrative trainee requires immense dedication and time management skills. “There are days when it feels overwhelming,” she admits. “But I remind myself of my goals and the impact I want to have.”
Her determination to succeed serves as a source of motivation, not only for herself but also for her peers. Jobo is aware of the influence she wields as a role model for young women in sports, and she embraces this responsibility wholeheartedly. “I want to show them that it’s possible to pursue your passion while making a difference in the world,” she says.
As she continues to navigate her dual roles, Jobo remains focused on her long-term goals. She envisions a future where she can further amplify her impact through sports and community engagement. “I hope to expand my work in empowering young women, using my platform to reach even more people,” she states.
Jobo’s journey illustrates the profound connection between sports and social change. Her story highlights the potential of athletes to be agents of change in their communities. Through her work with Kick4Life, she embodies the spirit of resilience, empowerment, and commitment to a greater cause.
Puseletso Jobo represents the new generation of athletes who understand the importance of leveraging their influence for social good. Her dedication to both her sport and her community serves as an inspiring example of how sports can transcend traditional boundaries, fostering personal growth and societal impact. As she continues to shine on the field and beyond, Jobo remains a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in Lesotho.