CAPE TOWN, South Africa
JESSICA MOTAUNG is a true blessing to her homeland of South Africa, to the continent of Africa, and to the world at large.
A woman of exceptional resilience, grace, and drive, Jessica Motaung stands as a beacon of perseverance and inspiration. Her journey reflects not only personal triumph but also an unwavering dedication to elevating her community, her country, and the global sports arena.
Born on August 23, 1973, in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, Jessica is a multifaceted powerhouse: a television personality, sports executive, and beauty pageant titleholder. Since the early 2000s, she has served as the Marketing & Commercial Director of Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, Africa’s most recognized sports brand with over 100 million supporters globally and more than 500 branches across Africa and beyond.
Popularly known as Amakhosi (a Nguni word meaning “Chiefs”), Kaizer Chiefs’ headquarters—the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena, Johannesburg—has become an international tourist attraction, drawing hundreds of visitors each year. Founded in 1970, the club has since become the most decorated football club in Southern Africa, boasting nearly 100 trophies and an expanding network of merchandise stores both locally and internationally.
Beauty with Purpose
In 1997, Jessica earned international acclaim when she was named Second Runner-Up at the Miss World pageant, representing South Africa. That same year, she was crowned Miss South Africa First Princess and Africa’s Queen of Beauty.
In 1998, she transitioned into broadcasting, becoming the host of ‘Speak Out’, an investigative news program on SABC 1. “I loved hosting the TV show,” she recalls. “It allowed me to connect with ordinary people and introduced me to the world of production and business.”
A Legacy in Sports
The daughter of South African football legend and Kaizer Chiefs founder Kaizer Motaung, Jessica was immersed in sports from a young age. In high school, she excelled in hockey, netball, tennis, athletics, and even swimming, often captaining her teams. These formative experiences were the foundation of her leadership style—decisive, passionate, and visionary.
Today, she still enjoys playing golf, and thanks to one of her sons’ interest, she’s added basketball to her repertoire: “It means that I now play basketball as well,” she says with a smile.
Jessica also grew up admiring icons like Oprah Winfrey. “I love her,” she says. “She reminds us to stay true to ourselves and live with intention, purpose, and a commitment to give back.”
A Life of Recognition and Service
Jessica’s contributions have been widely recognized. Her accolades include:
Women’s Day Award – One of the 7 Most Influential Women in South Africa (2014)
Top Ten Most Influential Women in South Africa (2015)
Nominee, Spar GSport Woman of the Year (2015)
Honoured by Protea Glen Secondary School as one of South Africa’s Most Influential Women (2020)
Commitment to Growth and Global Exchange
In 2022, Jessica graduated from the SuperSport Industry Leaders Programme, conducted with the Gordon Institute of Business Science. She was among 18 top candidates identified as the future of sports administration in South Africa. As part of the program, she traveled to San Francisco, engaging with top U.S. sports franchises like the San Francisco Giants and Golden State Warriors.
“The fan experience was a major takeaway,” she said. “We aim to replicate and enhance it here at home to strengthen the bond with our fans.”
A Bridge Between Nations
Recently, Jessica joined an Atlanta investment delegation to South Africa as part of the Atlanta Phambili initiative, promoting closer ties between South Africa and the U.S. She toured a Kaizer Chiefs merchandise partner, Veldskoen, whose CEO praised her vital role in their expansion—including their new office in Atlanta.
For Jessica, the mission was also deeply personal. Her father played in Atlanta during the 1960s and ’70s, forming a special bond with the city. “It’s more than business,” she explained. “Atlanta is part of our family history, and I’m proud to continue that legacy.”
Clad in Kaizer Chiefs regalia, Jessica visited Martin Luther King Jr.’s home and her father’s former residence. “It was powerful to walk those streets, to feel that connection,” she said.
Jessica Motaung’s story is not just one of individual excellence, but of using every platform—be it sport, media, or leadership—to inspire transformation. A true daughter of Africa, she continues to shape the future while honoring the legacy of the past.
Photo by Kaizer Chiefs.
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