For Mzwanele, known as Zwai, serving communities is his calling. In his role as Community Solutions Coordinator, Zwai loves that he is able to connect with people within and across communities. His ability to communicate with and relate to a wide range of people allows him to strive for the goals he seeks to achieve; seeing positive change in areas of gender-based violence, HIV, literacy and unemployment. These are areas Zwai has experience in given his work as a child and youth care worker.

When he’s not making his colleagues laugh, Zwai enjoys partaking in comedy with his friends.

Nontembeko started working at Amandla as a data mentor before being promoted to Advocacy Officer – something she regards as one of her biggest achievements. Her role allows her to engage with and help communities, which she revels in and derives happiness from. She’s committed to always growing and enjoys learning new things every day from those around her.

Zamalotshwa is from Eshowe, KwaZulu Natal, she has experience in Monitoring and Evaluation and Qualitative Research. She is interested in how race intersects with gender and class to reproduce inequality. Zama’s is most inspired by her role at Amandla because it allows her to learn innovative ways of changing the world, we live in.

Nthabiseng Vala has a degree in Social Work and an Honors in Criminology. Nthabiseng is skilled in conflict resolution and enjoys caring for others. Development work inspires her the most as it allows her to support the youth in finding healthy coping mechanisms in overcoming lives challenges.

Alicia is from Guguletulethu Cape Town, she gets her motivation through her role in facilitating educational and entreprenurial opportunities for the youth. Her passion is seen in her sharp communication skills and her ability to show empathy towards the young people she serves within the community.

Jazelle Kewitz has over 25 years of experience in the development sector and a BCom Degree. She is a passionate problem solver who enjoys scenic drives and listening to music. Jazelle is most inspired about being part of Amandla because she contributes towards the humanitarian effort which changes the lives of communities.

Anathi Mabilwana has in-depth experience working in communities, she has a warm and eager demeanor which she uses in engaging with the youth. She comes from a rural village called Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape; she gets the most inspiration from assisting the youth in Philippi in overcoming gendered discrimination.

Thapelo Moloto has a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree majoring in Economics and Political Studies as well as a Diploma in International Studies. He has an analytic mind which he applies in facilitating dialogue within the community to find consensus on resolving social ills. Thapelo most enjoys being part of shaping the lives of the marginalized youth.

Lonna Maseko is from Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape, she holds a Bachelors Degree in Social Work. Lonna shows high levels of commitment and dedication to both her team and the young people she serves. The role she plays in creating youth friendly services is what keeps her motivated to wake up everyday with a smile.

Zimkhitha holds bachelor’s degree in Social Worker, she has a passion for empowering the youth to overcome the challenges they experience within their homes and at school, her role involves providing psycho-social support. She is most inspired by positively impacting the youth to take advantage of resources to build a better future for themselves.