Marlene le Roux: An Advocate for Unity, Reconciliation, and Justice

Marlene le Roux, the Chief Executive of Artscape, has been recognized with the Jaap du Rand-Denise Ackerman Award as part of the Andrew Murray Prize Fund awards. Her passion for unity, reconciliation, and justice extends beyond South Africa, where she has had a successful career in youth development, disability advocacy, and community work.

Empowering Young People and Those with Disabilities

Throughout her career, le Roux has made a significant impact on the lives of young people and individuals with disabilities. She co-founded the Women’s Achievement Network for Disability in 2014, offering invaluable support to countless individuals. Her expertise in the arts also led her to serve on the London Olympic Committee and Arts Council, where she selected art projects for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Recognition for Her Efforts

Le Roux’s tireless efforts have garnered recognition from various prestigious institutions. In 2018, Queen Elizabeth II awarded her the Commonwealth Point of Light Award for her work in the disability sector. The German government also commended her contributions to disadvantaged communities with the German-Africa Prize, and she received honorary doctorates from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Stellenbosch University.

Artscape: A Center for Unity, Reconciliation, and Justice

Under le Roux’s leadership, Artscape has become a center for all communities and art forms, championing unity, reconciliation, and justice. She is one of six distinguished Andrew Murray Prize Fund award recipients, sharing the stage with accomplished authors, musicians, and academics.

Rediscovering Our Humanity through Empathetic Repair

Le Roux’s personal experiences have shaped her belief in the importance of sharing painful stories. She emphasizes the concept of “empathetic repair,” a process that encourages society to unite under one vision. Learning from each other and believing in one another, according to le Roux, are crucial steps towards rediscovering our humanity, healing, and fostering hope.

Transformation Begins with Us

Le Roux shared a quote from Archbishop Desmond Tutu during her acceptance speech in memory of him: “Transformation begins in you, wherever you are, whatever has happened, however, you are suffering. Transformation is always possible. We do not heal in isolation.” Le Roux exemplifies this sentiment through her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and social justice, transforming countless lives.

Marlene le Roux serves as an inspiration for individuals worldwide as a trailblazer in the fields of art, disability advocacy, and community development. Her dedication to creating a more inclusive and just society demonstrates the power of empathy and collaboration in overcoming adversity and fostering positive change.