Puleng Kwele Tribute

Puleng Dorothy Victoria Kwele (nee Sejanamane) was born in Kagiso on 6 July 1968 to James Tsung and Martha Lebogang Sejanamane. She completed her primary schooling at Tsholetsega Primary School and matriculated at Kagiso High School. Puleng enrolled at Wits University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science Honors in Genetics. She later completed post-graduate qualifications in Marketing and attained the designation of Chartered Marketer (SA).

In 1990 Puleng was blessed with a son, Khothatso Thozamile Sejanamane, who was one of the most precious facets of her life. They remained inseparable throughout their loving relationship.

Armed with qualifications in science, Puleng joined SAB as a brewing trainee and later switched to SAB’s much-vaunted marketing department. Puleng held specialist Marketing positions for several years before leaping into the entrepreneurial environment with Mahlasedi Management Consultants. On the back of the success of her venture, Puleng was recruited to take on a permanent executive position in the private sector. She later moved into the public sector, assuming the position of Chief Executive Officer at state-owned connectivity infrastructure provider, Broadband Infraco.

The employed phase of her career journey concluded at the multinational data and records management provider, Iron Mountain, where she held the position of Country Managing Director.

Most recently, Puleng rekindled her entrepreneurial flair founding an investment company and formalising her vocation as a professional coach and mentor.

Puleng married her husband, Kelebogile “Lucky” Kwele in 2012. They were to enjoy a devoted relationship rooted in a deep affection for one another.

Puleng was a compassionate wife and mother. Led by God in all that she did, Puleng was a devout Christian and spiritual leader who gave of herself and the lord to family, friends, the church and the community at large.

Her pioneering professional journey was recognised with nominations for multiple business leadership awards. She was officially awarded decorations from CEO Global and the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa. But the greatest recognition remains the countless testimonials from everyone whose lives she positively impacted.

Puleng is survived by her husband Lucky; her son Khothatso; three step-children, Kamogelo, Kgomotso and Tshegofatso; five siblings; four nieces; two nephews; and three grandchildren. Her legacy will live on through footprints in the sands of time by those whose lives she added value to.