Onicca Moloi, a woman of many talents
Onicca Moloi is not just a the Head of Portfolio for the Department of Sport, Art and Culture; she is also a qualified chef.
POLOKWANE – The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Provincial Head of Portfolio, Onicca Moloi, is a social entrepreneur, success coach, motivational speaker, philanthropist, chef, and food writer all while studying toward a degree in political science through Unisa and Wits University.
She is married with three children, two boys and one girl.
She is also the founder of Thalita Khoum Girl’s Network which aims to create a platform for young people, especially from rural areas, to access opportunities in the fields of education and business.
Onicca grew up in a big family where sharing was the norm and she says that is probably why she enjoys helping others. She had her first child at 17 and says although motherhood changed her life and took up a lot of her time, she did not let it keep her from chasing her dreams. Onicca says she was lucky to have the support of her mother who supported and encouraged her to focus on her studies.
“I disappointed many people when I became pregnant and I felt I had to work even harder to excel in my studies to prove I was capable of making something of my life,” Onicca explains.
She says she enjoys seeing people, especially women, succeed and enjoying the benefits of their hard work without depending on anyone.
“It is my belief that if you empower a woman, you empower a nation. My main focus is on young girls because they need guidance in order to turn into great leaders. Despite all the advancements women have made, we still live in a man’s world. Women need to stand together and uplift one another,” she continues.
When asked how she juggles work and family life, she says everyone has 24 hours a day to do as many things as possible and she tries to make every minute count.
She adds that cooking is not a job but a hobby for her because she does not see cooking as a chore; she finds it fun and relaxing.
Onicca fondly remembers that she once cooked for Jacob Zuma before he became president.
“I have launched my brand ‘Cooking with TP1’ and this is my biggest achievement as a chef so far. I want to have my own show on television to share special recipes with viewers.”
She adds that every girl deserves a chance to prove herself and women must take it upon themselves to help young girls succeed in life.
