Mrs Groenewald received one of five Ministerial Awards at the annual event for her outstanding contribution to women’s sport, and particularly for her leadership role in rugby. The awards ceremony was hosted at the Wanderers Sports Club in Johannesburg on Saturday night.

Mrs Groenewald was appointed SA Rugby’s first female Executive Council member in 2016 – a role she still serves in – and she also holds key positions in a number of other organisations, serving as Chief Director at Maties Sport, President of University Sport South Africa, and a Varsity Cup and University Sports Company Board member.

“I would like to congratulate Ilhaam for this notable achievement,” said Mr Alexander.

“She is a pioneer in her field, and this award is a fitting recognition and well deserved for the role she plays in women’s sport, and also in sport in the broader South African community. It requires a strong personality and presence to lead in sport, and Ilhaam’s commitment to provide opportunities for talented sportspeople to flourish is nothing short of admirable.”