Tzaneen, Limpopo — In the heart of a small community surrounded by the lush beauty of Limpopo, a young girl named Reitumetse Mametja learned the values of resilience, kindness, and togetherness. Today, that same girl — now a determined law student and advocate — is a finalist in the Miss South Africa Disability 2025 competition.
By Zenzile Dlamini
Born with Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic condition that also affected her late mother and currently impacts her brother, Reitumetse Mametja (21) has had to navigate a world often unprepared for people with disabilities. The condition gradually weakened her muscles, changing once simple tasks like walking long distances, climbing stairs, or lifting everyday items into exhausting obstacles, and eventually she transitioned from walking to using a motorised wheelchair.
“Muscular Dystrophy has always been part of my life. Growing up, I slowly began to notice the changes in my body, from muscle weakness to needing more support with daily activities. It’s something I’ve had to adapt to over time,” she said.
Despite the horrors that comes with the condition, she continues to defy the odds, choosing to turn her situation into a beacon of courage and authenticity. Her upbringing was humble but rich in love, with her family instilling in her the value of education, respect, and perseverance.
“I had a humble but love-filled upbringing. My family instilled in me respect for others, the value of education, and the belief that no matter where you start, you can achieve great things through perseverance. Life wasn’t without its challenges, but those experiences taught me to be resourceful, grateful, and determined.” She said.
Living with Muscular Dystrophy brings not only physical challenges but also emotional ones, from fatigue and muscle weakness to the social assumptions and accessibility barriers that can feel just as heavy. Still, Reitumetse states that each obstacle has sharpened her problem-solving skills and strengthened her belief that her spirit is stronger than any limitation.
“Muscular Dystrophy may shape my body, but it will never dictate my spirit. Every challenge I face is a reminder that I’m still here, still moving forward, and still capable of turning pain into power. I’m driven by the responsibility to honour the strength of those who came before me, and the hope that my journey will light the way for someone else walking through their own storm.” She said
For Reitumetse, the Miss South Africa Disability competition represents more than a title — it is a victory for every person who has been told their disability defines their limits, and proof that beauty is not about perfection but about courage and resilience. If crowned, the Tzaneen born finalist plans to amplify her advocacy for inclusion and accessibility while advancing her charity drive to provide sanitary towels to girls in need and help end pad poverty.
“Every vote, every share, every donation brings us closer to real change,” she added. Through her journey, Reitumetse hopes to light the way for others facing their own storms, believing that if her story can inspire even one person to see themselves as more than their circumstances, then every struggle becomes worth it. In a world that too often underestimates the strength of those with disabilities, she stands as living proof that courage is beautiful, resilience is powerful, and true queens rise by lifting others.
