
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
With over 13 years of experience in the mining industry, Ntombana has established herself as a seasoned business development professional. Her extensive career has afforded her a unique understanding of the challenges women face in male-dominated sectors, fueling her passion for advancing and empowering the African girl child.
As a social entrepreneur and corporate leader, Ntombana is driven to empower young girls and women to reach their full potential. She is committed to helping them thrive in leadership positions, creating a supportive community that accelerates their personal and professional transformation and inspiring the next generation of female leaders.
Phuti Manamela

Governance & Compliance Director
An admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa, Phuti is the Managing Director of Kasha Consulting (Pty) Ltd which specialises in labour law matters. In the world of law where practitioners can branch out into a multitude of specialities, she elected to focus on labour law as she is passionate about the empowerment and upliftment of employees and the sustainability of businesses. A focus which marries well with the mission and vision of the foundation. It is through teaching that we are able to feed girl children the information that they require to be able to recognise and fight for their Constitutional rights.
Lesego Teffo

PR & Marketing Director
Lesego is a Public Relations graduate who expanded her expertise by venturing into Information Technology following her studies. She is currently an IT specialist within the construction industry. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs inspired her to pursue her own entrepreneurial journey, leading to the establishment of Tsakganya Boutique. As a mother to a daughter and the eldest sister to her siblings, she is deeply motivated to empower young girls by instilling in them the knowledge of their inherent potential. Lesego is dedicated to nurturing their growth, fostering a generation that spreads love and strengthens our nation. Through this commitment, she aims to break the cycle of oppression faced by girl children.
Phindile Sigasa

Executive Assistant
Phindi is a multifaceted professional who seamlessly integrates journalism, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy into her diverse career. As a qualified journalist, she uncovers compelling stories for an online publication. In addition, she is the founder of her own flower business, where she combines creativity with her passion for nature. Phindile also hosts "The Journey with Phindile Sigasa," a podcast that delves into the complexities of life. Her deep love for children inspires her to organize annual outings for her family’s children, which brings her great joy. Committed to empowering young women, she emphasizes the values of hard work, determination, and kindness. Through her varied endeavors, Phindile aims to create a positive impact within her community, fostering personal growth and development
Gauta Mashego

Governance & Compliance Assistant
Gauta is a final-year law student and aspiring public interest lawyer with a strong commitment to service. In her spare time, she actively volunteers within her church community and participates in various student outreach programs. Passionate about advocating for the voiceless, Gauta believes that meaningful change begins with impacting the lives of marginalized individuals in society.
Vacant

Counselling Lead
TBA
Vacant

Marketing Assistant
TBA