It is with deep sorrow that we reflect on the life and passing of Dr Maria Mabetoa, a stalwart of South Africa’s social development sector and a cherished member of the DG Murray Trust family. Dr Mabetoa has been a DGMT Trustee since November 2016, stepped down from her role in June 2024 due to ill health, and passed away on 19 November 2024.
Dr Mabetoa’s life was defined by her unwavering dedication to the most vulnerable in society. With a career spanning decades, she shaped transformative policies and programmes that have left an indelible mark on South Africa’s social landscape. During her tenure at the Department of Social Development, she rose to Deputy Director-General for Welfare Services, where colleagues described her as embodying the essence of servant leadership through her quiet yet resilient demeanour and determination to champion the rights of orphans, vulnerable children, and families.
Her commitment to child welfare and vulnerable communities resonated strongly during her time as a DGMT Trustee. In Board meetings, Dr Mabetoa spoke with quiet determination, always representing the interests of the marginalised with integrity and compassion. David Harrison, DGMT’s CEO, remembers her as someone whose voice in discussions was deeply thoughtful and anchored in her dedication to making a difference. He fondly recalls her sense of humour and how her passion for social justice infused every decision she made.
Beyond her professional accolades, Dr Mabetoa was a mentor and educator. She trained countless leaders in the social sector during her time as Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of North West and later at the University of South Africa (UNISA), where she developed a new Bachelor of Social Work curriculum. Her presidency of the South African Council of Social Service Professions (SACSSP) from 2016 to 2022 further highlighted her role as a trailblazer in advancing the professionalisation of social services in South Africa.
Dr Mabetoa’s contributions extended to the broader social work community through her establishment of the National Social Work Veterans’ Forum and her advocacy for mentoring newly qualified practitioners. Her work continues to inspire those committed to building a more equitable and caring society.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we honour her legacy and the profound impact she has made. Dr Mabetoa’s life reminds us that true leadership is rooted in compassion, and her work will remain a beacon of hope and guidance for years to come.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
