Board of Trustees
The Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees, who ensure good governance and provide oversight in all activities undertaken. By engaging in public benefit activities, the Trust aims to enhance socio-economic development, uplift communities, and benefit society's most vulnerable members.
Meet our Trustees
Meet our dedicated trustees members who work tirelessly to fulfill our mission and make a positive impact.
Independent Trustees
Professor Hellen Myezwa
Chairperson
Professor Hellen Myezwa
Chairperson
Professor Hellen Myezwa is the Head of the School of Therapeutic Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand and a distinguished leader in health sciences. With extensive experience in both clinical practice, academia and leadership she has played a pivotal role in shaping rehabilitation service delivery and advancing research in HIV and disability. A C2 NRF-rated researcher, Professor Myezwa conducted one of the first studies defining HIV related disability in Africa and has since led ground-breaking research on the impact of HIV on disability, ischaemic heart disease, and musculoskeletal function.
Her expertise extends to the epidemiology of disability and healthcare service delivery models, where she has contributed to policy and system development. With over 120 peer-reviewed publications, co-authored books, and significant contributions to health sciences education, she has mentored 30 postgraduate students, including twelve PhD candidates. Her leadership is further strengthened by a Master’s in Leadership, Management, and Executive Coaching from Wits Business School, enhancing her role in mentoring young academics and shaping the next generation of leaders. Beyond academia, Professor Myezwa is committed to community development and has served on and international community trust, advocating for improved livelihoods better health and youth development through education and leadership.
Her expertise extends to the epidemiology of disability and healthcare service delivery models, where she has contributed to policy and system development. With over 120 peer-reviewed publications, co-authored books, and significant contributions to health sciences education, she has mentored 30 postgraduate students, including twelve PhD candidates. Her leadership is further strengthened by a Master’s in Leadership, Management, and Executive Coaching from Wits Business School, enhancing her role in mentoring young academics and shaping the next generation of leaders. Beyond academia, Professor Myezwa is committed to community development and has served on and international community trust, advocating for improved livelihoods better health and youth development through education and leadership.
Michael Mpanza
Independent Trustee
Michael Mpanza
Independent Trustee
Micheal Mpanza brings over 26 years of expertise in audit, finance, and compliance, with a rich background working for reputable organizations like KPMG, Transnet, ABSA, Nedbank, and South African Airways. His contributions extend beyond the corporate realm, having served as a council member of Freedom Park. Additionally, Micheal has held pivotal roles as the chairman of the finance committee and a member of the risk & audit committee, showcasing his multifaceted experience and leadership in the field.
Dr Bhekefini Mthethwa
Independent Trustee
Dr Bhekefini Mthethwa
Independent Trustee
Dr. Mthethwa, an experienced educator, embarked on his teaching journey in 2008 and has remained dedicated to the field ever since. With a Ph.D. in Public Management and Governance, he currently spearheads the KZN Community Education and Training College as its Director.
His extensive expertise extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by his pivotal roles in various educational institutions.
Dr. Mthethwa's leadership acumen is showcased through his positions as an Advisory Board Member at the Durban University of Technology's Adult Education & Training Unit, Chairperson of the Continuing and Worker Education Committee at the KZN Human Resource Development Council, and involvement with the Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct. Furthermore, his commitment to societal welfare is evident through his membership in the Vulnerable Children in Education NGO, highlighting his dedication to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments. Dr. Mthethwa's multifaceted contributions underscore his profound impact on the education sector and beyond.
Dr. Mthethwa's leadership acumen is showcased through his positions as an Advisory Board Member at the Durban University of Technology's Adult Education & Training Unit, Chairperson of the Continuing and Worker Education Committee at the KZN Human Resource Development Council, and involvement with the Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct. Furthermore, his commitment to societal welfare is evident through his membership in the Vulnerable Children in Education NGO, highlighting his dedication to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments. Dr. Mthethwa's multifaceted contributions underscore his profound impact on the education sector and beyond.
Founder Appointed Trustees
Nomfundo Cebekhulu
Founder Appointed Trustee
Nomfundo Cebekhulu
Founder Appointed Trustee
Nomfundo Cebekhulu is currently the Business Optimisation Manager at Thungela and has over 21 years’ experience in Auditing, Financial Reporting, Tax, Treasury, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Strategy and Business Development functions.
She has held various senior Finance positions and has also worked for a Copper commodity business unit on an international secondment assignment. Previously, she was with PriceWaterhouseCoopers Inc where she completed her trainee articles. She has a Bachelor of Commerce Honours (Accounting) degree from the University of Natal and is a qualified Chartered Accountant (SA) registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). She is also a member of various governance structures across various companies and Community Development Trusts.
She has held various senior Finance positions and has also worked for a Copper commodity business unit on an international secondment assignment. Previously, she was with PriceWaterhouseCoopers Inc where she completed her trainee articles. She has a Bachelor of Commerce Honours (Accounting) degree from the University of Natal and is a qualified Chartered Accountant (SA) registered with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). She is also a member of various governance structures across various companies and Community Development Trusts.
Sihle Bongumusa Nkomo
Founder Appointed Trustee
Sihle Bongumusa Nkomo
Founder Appointed Trustee
Sihle is a human resources practitioner and has been in this field over 25 years. Sihle’s background in the mining industry, and his role extends to skills development in the communities and stakeholder engagement as part of implementing social & labour plans.
Sihle, is part of the Thungela human resources leadership team, and his leadership is complimented by studies in human resources management and post graduate studies in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Sihle has a conviction about impacting the future through structured development of the community, especially the youth. Sihle advocates for improved livelihoods of the host communities. Sihle believes in upholding the moral and ethical high ground in the progressive development of our society
Sihle, is part of the Thungela human resources leadership team, and his leadership is complimented by studies in human resources management and post graduate studies in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Sihle has a conviction about impacting the future through structured development of the community, especially the youth. Sihle advocates for improved livelihoods of the host communities. Sihle believes in upholding the moral and ethical high ground in the progressive development of our society
Nompumelelo Sithole
Founder Appointed Trustee
Nompumelelo Sithole
Founder Appointed Trustee
Mpumi Sithole is currently the executive head of corporate affairs at Thungela. Prior to this, she was previously the head of corporate affairs for the South African coal business unit of Anglo American. Within the Anglo American Group, she also spent a number of years as the media and external relations manager for Anglo American Platinum. Before joining Anglo American, Mpumi was head of communications at Sanofi.
Mpumi's career is a tapestry of impactful roles, showcasing her proficiency in communications, brand management, reputation management, media relations, stakeholder engagement, socio-economic development, and ESG initiatives. Her commitment to driving positive change is evident in her diverse roles and impactful contributions. With a BA Hons, Management Development Programme Certificate, and a Board Leadership Programme under her belt, Mpumi is equipped with a robust skill set to navigate the dynamic landscape of corporate affairs and communications. Her dedication to excellence and passion for creating a lasting impact define her career trajectory.
Mpumi's career is a tapestry of impactful roles, showcasing her proficiency in communications, brand management, reputation management, media relations, stakeholder engagement, socio-economic development, and ESG initiatives. Her commitment to driving positive change is evident in her diverse roles and impactful contributions. With a BA Hons, Management Development Programme Certificate, and a Board Leadership Programme under her belt, Mpumi is equipped with a robust skill set to navigate the dynamic landscape of corporate affairs and communications. Her dedication to excellence and passion for creating a lasting impact define her career trajectory.
Community Trustees
Nontobeko Mtshali
Community Trustee
Nontobeko Mtshali
Community Trustee
Nontobeko Mtshali is an accounting graduate and entrepreneur from Ogies with eleven years of diverse work experience. From receptionist to clerk, she has honed her skills across various roles. Her most recent role at Techno Serve involved youth development, contract management, and supporting SMMEs with business registration and administration. Nontobeko is based in Ogies which is within the Emalahleni Local Municipality.
Sthembiso Mthimuye
Community Trustee
Sthembiso Mthimuye
Community Trustee
Sthembiso Mthimunye is a seasoned legal professional and dedicated social entrepreneur, with over five years of experience as a Litigation Paralegal at Gibbs & Associates. In this role, Sthembiso has contributed to high-level legal processes with precision and a commitment to justice.
Beyond the legal field, Sthembiso is a passionate disability advocate with more than 4 years of experience leading and contributing to groundbreaking initiatives that promote disability education and holistic inclusion.
Her project management work has not only empowered individuals but also influenced broader societal perceptions and systems surrounding disability rights. Bridging legal expertise with social impact, Sthembiso brings a unique and transformative approach to advocacy—driven by purpose, guided by empathy, and anchored in a deep understanding of structural inequalities. Whether in the boardroom or the community, her mission remains clear: to drive meaningful, lasting change. She hails from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.
Her project management work has not only empowered individuals but also influenced broader societal perceptions and systems surrounding disability rights. Bridging legal expertise with social impact, Sthembiso brings a unique and transformative approach to advocacy—driven by purpose, guided by empathy, and anchored in a deep understanding of structural inequalities. Whether in the boardroom or the community, her mission remains clear: to drive meaningful, lasting change. She hails from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.
Bongani Thwala
Community Trustee
Bongani Thwala
Community Trustee
Bongani Thwala is a seasoned professional with a background in Cost & Management Accounting, has worked in the petro-chemical industry since 2003. Transitioning to a new phase in 2023, he continues to contribute his expertise in project management as a contractor. Throughout his tenure in the petro-chemical industry, Bongani played a crucial role in overseeing cost and accounting aspects of various projects, showcasing his proficiency in financial management. Based in the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, Bongani's dedication and skills have been pivotal in his successful career journey.