Netshithothole Rialivhuwa Tertia, from South Africa, dreams of becoming a gender expert, fighting for marginalized and subordinate groups, and educating others on how to acknowledge their human rights and use them responsibly. She gained more insight in social science research in 2023 when employed by the Limpopo Department of Social Development as a researcher on a research project titled: “Factors influencing the rising incidence of gender-based violence and Femicides in Limpopo Province.’’ Rialivhuwa is passionate about inspiring and empowering other women in her community and beyond to fight for gender equality in all spheres of life.
Growing up in poverty, Rialivhuwa always saw education as a way out. She is currently enrolled in a master's in gender studies at the University of Venda. Her current research project is exploring factors limiting women’s participation in Indigenous cattle farming practices. She is also a GreenMatter Fellow, mentor, motivational speaker, and career advisor, to name a few. Rialivhuwa uses her own resources to assist students with university/college, leadership, and bursary applications.
Upon realizing how women and girls are neglecting education, discriminated against, and abused in her community, Rialivhuwa decided to establish an empowerment center for women and girls to tackle issues related to gender inequalities, empowerment, and self-development. The center will provide educational, health, psychological, and computer literacy services to women and girls in the surrounding areas.
