Artscape chief executive Marlene le Roux ‘humbled’ recipient of accolade
ARTSCAPE chief executive Marlene le Roux said she was extremely humbled to be a recipient of the fourth annual Bring Her Up: Women Of Firsts Awards, which honour women in various spheres who have demonstrated determination, leadership and creativity in their work and contribution towards society.
The Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute (CMMI), in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, is hosting the awards at a brunch ceremony in Gauteng today.
The women receiving recognition have played their part in innovative solutions to move the county forward towards a progressive democracy.
Vice-chancellor of Wits University Dr Judy Dlamini will be recognised for establishing the Female Academic
Leaders Fellowship fund.
Also in the room will be Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba for her work in streamlining the Covid-19 response and vaccination drive in the province.
Le Roux said: “I am extremely humbled to receive this honour in the name of an iconic figure, Charlotte Maxeke, who is synonymous with equal quality education and economic empowerment, and active social justice for women. As a country, we don't do enough on the ground level to change the mindset of our society for a more humane society.
“My plea, in accepting this honour, is that I urge politicians to stand together and start with implementing policies actively, to change lives and start to address cultural and religious practices, which perpetuate women, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTQIA+ community.”
The CMMI said Le Roux was acknowledged for her steadfast and resolute leadership, as well as her tireless advocacy for the rights of persons with disabilities, youth and women.
“The arts play a critical role in the upliftment of our country and the representation of who we are as a society. She has made this institution, which is now 50 years old, a home and world stage for the artists of this country,” said the CMMI.