Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII, the 18-year-old Rain Queen of the Balobedu Nation in Limpopo, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by passing her matriculation exams with a Bachelor’s pass. This achievement makes her the first Queen of the Balobedu to graduate from high school, marking a significant moment in the history of her royal lineage.
In December 2024, Queen Masalanabo was officially recognised by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the rightful heir to the Balobedu Queenship, a role that she is set to assume in 2025. Her academic success has not only brought immense pride to her royal family but has also become a beacon of inspiration for young people across the nation. The Queen’s dedication to her studies reflects her commitment to personal growth and her belief in the transformative power of education.
Dr. Mathole Motshekga, the chief royal councillor of the Balobedu Royal Nation, shared that Queen Masalanabo’s journey to this achievement was far from easy. “She faced many challenges in her early life, moving from school to school and initially struggling to qualify for Grade 1. When we finally found a school for her, she started in Grade 5,” said Dr. Motshekga. Despite these setbacks, the Queen worked tirelessly, with extra lessons and tutoring, to achieve this historic academic success.
Now, with her matric behind her, Queen Masalanabo is determined to break another record by pursuing tertiary education. Her academic interests include law and social development, areas she believes will benefit not only her personal growth but also the progress of the Balobedu Nation. “She wants to be a well-qualified queen who can lead her people with the knowledge and skills they deserve,” Dr. Motshekga explained. Queen Masalanabo’s coronation is set for March 2025 in Bolobedu, and her future, both as a leader and scholar, looks incredibly promising.
