University of Johannesburg (UJ) alumna Tshego Gaelae and newly crowned Mrs World is on a mission to create lasting change—from the courtroom to the community. Tshego made history last week by becoming the first black woman to be crowned Mrs World, a prestigious achievement that has given her an even greater platform to drive change.
As a practising attorney, advocate for education, and founder of a non-profit organisation, she is determined to uplift the next generation. While the title is a milestone, she remains focused on her core purpose—advocating for education, social impact, and breaking barriers for women and young people.
Using her platform for change
Through her non-profit organisation, We Are Our Children’s Keeper, Tshego is dedicated to providing school shoes and uniforms to underprivileged children. She believes that education should not be a privilege but a right, and no child should have to struggle to access learning opportunities.
“Children shouldn’t have to cross rivers just to get to school. I want to work with government, private entities, and individuals to ensure that education is not only accessible but also safe.”Her dedication to uplifting communities is a reflection of UJ’s values—impact, transformation, and leadership.
A message to UJ students: “Honour Your Opportunity”
As students prepare to embark on a new academic year, Tshego urges them to stay focused on their studies.
“As an advocate for education, I encourage first-year students to make the most of their opportunity. The student centre and parties can wait—your focus should be on your future. Many potential students don’t have this chance, so honour it by showing up for your education.”
She also highlights the importance of building relationships with lecturers and taking advantage of UJ’s resources.
“UJ was my first choice because of the access to lecturers and the university’s strong reputation. UJ graduates were highly regarded in my industry, which is why I returned for my postgraduate diploma in Labour Law. The academic programmes here prepare you for the real world.”
Breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation
The Mrs World pageant took place in the city of lights, Las Vegas, last week and she describes the experience as a once in a lifetime opportunity. This experience reaffirmed her plight to continue to change the narrative of what pageants represent. The 2024 Mrs South Africa is elated at the win, a first in the 40 years of the pageant’s existence. The LLB graduate says her goal was to always be authentically herself. “I presented myself in the best way I know how to, and my aim was to showcase South Africa and its natural artistry.
“Pageants are said to have catty, unsupportive women. My experience with Mrs South Africa was the complete opposite of that. I received a sisterhood from that journey and my Mrs World journey.
“I found women who were so keen to celebrate each other and empower one another and stand in the gap for one another wherever necessary. This reaffirms my view on pageants and how I want other people to view pageants. I really want to celebrate the sisterhood aspect that I have experienced.”
While she has achieved success on multiple platforms, Tshego remains rooted in her purpose—uplifting others and reshaping narratives about leadership and empowerment.
“I want to be remembered for my authenticity, impact, and commitment to sustainable change. If a girl from Soweto can achieve her dreams, then so can you.”
Her journey is a testament to resilience, purpose-driven leadership, and the power of education—a true reflection of the UJ spirit.
