Balancing executive leadership, doctoral studies, community service and family life might seem impossible to many, but for Pertunia Nkomo-Mofokeng, it is simply an expression of living with purpose.
As Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning at Rosebank International and a Mrs South Africa finalist 2026, she represents a new generation of South African women redefining leadership through authenticity, resilience and service.
For Nkomo-Mofokeng, entering Mrs South Africa was never about wearing a crown. “I wanted to amplify my impact beyond the classroom,” she says. “The platform allows me to advocate for education, vulnerable children and community development while showing that leadership is ultimately about serving others.”
The competition has become one of the most transformative experiences of her life. Often described as an “MBA of life”, Mrs South Africa has challenged contestants to grow as leaders, communicators and changemakers.
“The journey has stretched me in ways I never imagined,” she explains. “It has challenged me to become more intentional about how I lead, how I inspire others and how I use my voice to create meaningful change.”
One of her greatest takeaways has been discovering the strength found in authentic leadership. “Without authenticity, leadership becomes performance,” she says. “People connect with honesty, humility and leaders who are willing to acknowledge challenges while remaining focused on solutions.”
That philosophy has shaped both her academic career and her personal life. At Rosebank International, she works closely with students and lecturers to improve teaching excellence, curriculum innovation and student success across multiple campuses. Her experience has taught her that leadership is built through relationships rather than authority.
Participating in Mrs South Africa has also changed the way she interacts with students. “It has reminded me that every interaction is an opportunity to inspire someone,” she says. “I encourage students to pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zones because personal growth extends beyond academic achievement.”
She hopes her own journey encourages women who believe their dreams have passed them by. “Your dreams do not have an expiry date,” she says. “There will never be a perfect time, but there is always the right decision to begin. You can be a professional, a wife, a mother and a leader with purpose, perseverance and faith.”
Throughout the competition, there have been moments of uncertainty, but her faith, family and purpose have kept her grounded. “I remind myself that comparison steals joy. My focus has always been on becoming the best version of myself rather than competing with anyone else.”
Looking ahead, Nkomo-Mofokeng is excited to use the Mrs South Africa platform to expand her advocacy for education, literacy and women empowerment while connecting with communities across the country.
Regardless of the final outcome, she believes the experience has already shaped the legacy she hopes to leave behind. “I want my family to remember that dreams are worth pursuing, my institution to remember that education changes lives, and my community to remember that service creates lasting impact,” she says. “Ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when they lead with integrity, compassion and faith.”
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