Brümilda Swartbooi
Golf, God and family are the cornerstones of Keletso Kgotse’s (34) life. A Specialist Town Planner (Land Use Management), Keletso made waves over a month ago as one of the winners in the Pro-Am tournament at the 10th edition of the Joburg Ladies Open. The event is co-sanctioned by the Sunshine Ladies Tour and the Ladies European Tour.
As an amateur, Keletso was afforded a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play alongside two professional golfers. That day, her heart was calm, anchored by a verse from the book of John: “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”
Originally from Mamelodi in Pretoria, Keletso’s journey into golf began in 2015 in the Eastern Cape. What started as a casual pastime with colleagues quickly blossomed into a passion. “My then-supervisor taught me the basics and it’s become something I truly cherish.”
Today, she is not only a passionate golfer but a three-time ladies’ champion with her golf group, Golf Pals. Although it’s a largely male-dominated group, Keletso is held in high regard and has previously served as chairperson.
Beyond the fairways, Keletso finds her role in the City of Johannesburg just as fulfilling. She focuses on land development, township establishment, subdivisions, consent applications and rezoning, mainly in the Sandton and Midrand areas. “I really enjoy what I do – it brings a sense of fulfilment. It has opened my eyes in many ways, and I now view cities and communities differently,” she says.
After an internship in the Office of the Premier and early career experience in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Keletso joined the City of Johannesburg in 2018. The move was driven by her desire to gain exposure to larger-scale developments and expand her professional network.
Her passion is deeply rooted in her origins. “I’m driven by seeing transformation in communities, especially because I’m from a township called Mamelodi,” she says. “It’s heartwarming and a proud feeling to be part of development processes that promote affordable housing.”
Keletso holds a Master’s degree in Town and Regional Planning from the University of Pretoria. Her Master’s research, “Narrating the Untold Story of the Transformation of Tsweu Street in Mamelodi”, explored how residents took the initiative to improve the street by establishing businesses, with community support leading to job creation.
Sport has always been in her blood. In high school, she played hockey and tennis. She credits her older sister, Kgothatso, for inspiring her drive: “She was active and athletic too.”
“I come from a family that is loving, compassionate, respectful and rooted in Christ. We are fortunate to have our mother, Rachel Bapela, who raised us with love and created an environment for us to thrive academically and in sport. She’s always been front row, cheering us on.”
Keletso thrives both on and off the fairways. “On Saturdays you’ll find me on the golf course. I love immersing myself in the beauty of nature – it’s great for overall mental health.”
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
