Malebogo Molefhe

Malebogo Molefhe is a former National Basketball player who narrowly escaped death after being brutally attacked and shot eight times in 2009 by a deranged ex-boyfriend. She survived the attack but is confined to a wheelchair due to extensive spinal cord injuries. Since her attack, Malebogo Molefhe has felt led to advocate for her herself and other women and girls who are victims of gender-based violence (GBV). She began speaking out against domestic abuse and GBV on national radio, facilitating workshops and training on organizational wellness with leading state organizations and non-governmental organizations in Botswana, and volunteering in communities across the country to bring awareness to these issues and shine light on cultural norms that promote the continuation of GBV in Botswana. Malebogo has dedicated her life to teaching young girls about self-esteem and self-respect to fight against gender oppression and domestic abuse. She currently is working with the Ministry of Education to develop a program for school-age children to teach and help them to understand the implications of violence in the home. Malebogo also advocates for the advancement of women in sports with a particular focus on women with disabilities. Having played professional basketball from age 18 until the incident in 2009 at 29 years old, she is passionate about promoting active rehabilitation for women who are disabled, especially those whose disability comes as the result of domestic violence.