
Meet the Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
At Mqhele Yezizwe Foundation we're driven by passion, excellence and commitment. Our team shares a common goal; to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the youth.
Ntombana Mabena

Founder & Executive Director
Driven by the belief that education remains one of the greatest tools for changing lives, Ntombana founded the Mqhele Yezizwe Foundation to create opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Under her leadership, the foundation delivers literacy initiatives, career guidance, mentorship programs and educational support that equips young girls, particularly those in underserved communities. Alongside the foundation, Ntombana brings 14 years of mining industry experience to her current role as commercial projects leader, successfully steering complex capital equipment projects. Her corporate leadership experience has shaped a practical approach to impact - combining strategic thinking, strong partnerships and disciplined execution to create measurable value for the communities the foundation serves.
Lesego Teffo

PR & Marketing Director
Lesego is an I.T. specialist whose career bridges digital innovation and entrepreneurship. A graduate in Public Relations, she expanded her expertise into Information Technology within the construction industry. Inspired by her family’s entrepreneurial roots, Lesego believes everyone deserves the opportunity to turn their talents into self-reliance. As the founder of Tsakganya Boutique, her journey is driven by a passion for creating sustainable opportunities. As PR & Marketing Director at the foundation, Lesego oversees the foundation's brand positioning, communications and public engagement initiatives. She is deeply committed to inspiring young girls to recognize their limitless potential by providing the tools they require to succeed.
Eurica Mokone

Social Media Content Creator
Eurica is a communications professional and entrepreneur with experience in digital engagement, public sector communications and strategic brand development. Holding a BA in Communication Studies, she has spent more than eight years building expertise in lead generation, social media management and creating meaningful digital content that connects organizations with their audiences. Alongside her professional career, Eurica has established her own business demonstrating her passion for creativity. As Social Media Content Creator, she brings the foundation's impact stories to life through thoughtful content. Her work ensures that the foundation's mission reaches wider communities and celebrates the transformative role education plays in changing lives.
Phindile Sigasa

Projects & Events Coordinator
Phindile is a journalist, entrepreneur and community builder whose career reflects her passion for people and service. As a qualified journalist, she uncovers compelling stories for an online publication. She is also the founder of a floral business which allows her to express her creative side. As Projects & Events Coordinator, Phindile oversees the planning and execution of programs and events while serving as the vital link between the organisation, its partners and volunteers. Often described as the glue that holds the Mqhele community together, she coordinates the internal team and nurtures the relationships that enable every initiative to succeed.
Gauta Mashego

Governance & Compliance Assistant
Gauta is a candidate attorney dedicated to advancing justice through public interest law. Her professional journey is centered on advocating for equitable access to education and healthcare, with an aspiration of becoming a public interest lawyer specializing in education and health rights. Beyond her legal career, Gauta actively serves within her church community and participates in student outreach initiatives. As Governance & Compliance Assistant, Gauta supports the foundation's governance, compliance and ethical accountability. Passionate about advocating for the voiceless, Gauta believes that meaningful change begins with impacting the lives of marginalized individuals in society.
Vacant

Community research specialist
TBA
Vacant

Marketing Assistant
TBA