Future Leaders Class of 2026

Ephreeda Banda

Ephreeda Banda, called Amahle by many, is a South African multimedia journalist, researcher, and community-focused leader whose work blends politics, storytelling, and social impact. A graduate in Journalism and Media Studies as well as Political and International Studies from Rhodes University, she brings a strong interdisciplinary foundation to understanding how media, policy, and society intersect. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts degree. Her experience spans journalism, social media management, political communication, and documentary and television production. She has contributed to the Rhodes University Communication & Advancement Division, was an intern at Media24 (Pop24). Beyond media production, Ephreeda is a committed mentor and educator. As a Journalism 1 tutor, PG Writing Group Coordinator, and former peer educator, she has helped shape supportive and dynamic learning environments. Her leadership extends into community development, serving as co-founder of We Touching Lives, Social Impact Manager for RU Enactus, and a long-standing contributor to youth development initiatives. A natural communicator and organiser, Ephreeda has held roles across event coordination, public relations, team management, and student representation. Whether managing the Rhodes University Ladies FC or amplifying campus campaigns, she consistently fosters collaboration, creativity, and positive change. Driven, curious, and community-minded, Ephreeda Banda continues to build a career rooted in storytelling, advocacy, and transformative impact.

Mthunzi Milazi

My name is Mthunzi Milazi and I am a South African youth leader, student activist, thinker, and community developer committed to creating spaces where young people can grow and be heard and empowered. I am driven by a deep desire to uplift others and create opportunities. At the University of KwaZulu Natal Pietermaritzburg, I served in several important leadership roles in the Mkhonto Wesizwe Students Movement and Team Sugar South Africa. Beyond the university, I serve as the President of the Eunice Community Development Organization, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting marginalized communities, working to open community centres. I believe strongly in community development that restores dignity and creates real opportunities for growth. I am the founder of Legacy Builders Academy, an online school designed to help young people transform their mindset, develop discipline, and unlock their full potential. I work across a wide range of fields including environmental studies, political ecology, anthropology, criminology, and biogeography. My academic work reflects my curiosity and my passion for understanding society in a deep and critical way. I am currently working on a book titled The Cry of an Absent Father. As the UKZN BRICS Students Commissioning President, I engage in dialogues on inclusive employment, digital skills, entrepreneurship for African youth, cooperative models, and policy advocacy. My mission is to help build an Africa where young people have not only dreams but real and meaningful opportunities. I am dedicated to empowerment, transformation, and leaving every space I enter better than I found it.

Zwivhuya Mulaudzi

Zwivhuya Mulaudzi is a dedicated individual pursuing his Master’s in Political Science at the University of Venda, building on his academic foundation. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Venda and completed his Honours in Political Science at the University of Fort Hare in 2024. Zwivhuya’s passion for social justice and community development is evident in his volunteer work with notable NPOs, including PHILA Life Hope Centre and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). His academic pursuits and volunteer experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of political systems, governance, and power dynamics. As a Master’s student, Zwivhuya is refining his critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, preparing himself for a career in academia, policy-making, or social activism. His commitment to creating positive change is inspiring, and his academic journey is a testament to his dedication to shaping a more equitable society. Through his studies, Zwivhuya aims to contribute to the development of a more just and equitable world, leveraging his knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact. His academic background and experience have prepared him to make a difference in his community and beyond.

Thandolwethu Shisa

Thandolwethu Shisa is an emerging African policy leader with a deep interest in economic development, the Just Energy Transition, trade relations and infrastructure development. She is driven by the conviction that inclusive growth and strategic policymaking can reshape South Africa’s future, and she aspires to represent the country on the global stage in matters of international trade, development cooperation, and economic diplomacy. Her dedication to public service and youth policy advocacy led to her election as a youth representative in the Y20 and T20 engagements under South Africa’s G20 presidency. In these roles, she contributed to high-level policy discussions on sustainable development, global economic reform, and youth empowerment, ensuring that the views of young South Africans were represented in multilateral spaces. Thandolwethu has developed a strong foundation in research and governance through her work at the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), where she worked on projects focused on governance, multilateral cooperation, climate policy, and continental development. She holds a Bachelor of Political Sciences and a BA Honours in International Relations, and earned a certificate in Cybersecurity (cum laude), strengthening her understanding of the governance, security, and technological dimensions of development. She is currently pursuing a Master of Management (Development and Economics) at the University of the Witwatersrand. She is committed to advancing socio-economic justice, evidence-based policymaking, and institutional reform, and brings a forward-looking, globally informed perspective to her work.

Tankiso Nkosi

Tankiso is a curious, creative and innovative individual with interests in areas such as public service delivery, data driven decision-making and fiscal policy. He holds a BA in Public Management and Governance from the University of Johannesburg and a BAdmin Honours, specialising in Public Administration and Management from the University of Pretoria. Hailing from the South of Johannesburg townships, where service delivery challenges, poverty and inequalities are most prevalent. He believes that his academic background, the values he upholds and professional experiences will help him contribute positively to building thriving communities in South Africa. Over the years, he has mainly been involved in community work focused on providing youth with digital and internet access, employment services and educational support with Golden Youth Journey. He has also had an honour of contributing towards youth entrepreneurs mentorship programs with the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct and NYDA. In addition to that, he has also collaborated with over 100 SMMEs entrepreneurs in providing them with Digital Market Access under the 22 on Sloane and UK-SA Tech Hub project, which he believes helped him polish his stakeholder engagement and research skills. In future, he aims to pursue either a postgraduate diploma in Public Financial Management or a MPA. He also firmly believes that being part of the 2026 FLP cohort will allow him to further hone his research and Advocacy skills, which will come in handy in future as he pursues Public Service roles with the best interests of the South African citizen at heart.

Ziyanda Makhanya

Ziyanda Makhanya is a passionate advocate for mental health, youth empowerment, and community-centred leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Linguistics from the University of the Witwatersrand, where she is currently completing her Honours in Psychology. Her academic work explores culturally grounded understandings of mental health. Ziyanda’s leadership journey reflects a deep commitment to service, collaboration, and social upliftment. She has served in multiple student governance and community roles, including two years on the David Webster Hall House Committee—first as Sports Officer and later as Chairperson. In these positions, she championed inclusive community-building, conflict mediation, and student wellbeing, while engaging closely with diverse student groups and university governance structures. Her dedication to public service extends beyond campus. As a UNICEF Wits Mental Health Outreach volunteer, she supports peers through compassionate listening, mental health education, and trauma-informed engagement. Her experience as a SANBS Blood Bank Representative and her involvement with environmental and youth-focused projects have strengthened her belief in collective action and community resilience. Ziyanda is also a proud Golden Key International Honour Society member, recognised for academic excellence and leadership potential. Rooted in empathy and driven by purpose, Ziyanda hopes to build a career in social impact communications, mental health advocacy, and community development. She is committed to creating accessible, culturally sensitive platforms that uplift young people and broaden public understanding of mental health in South Africa.

Antonette Mofokeng

Antonette Mofokeng is a dynamic leader, social impact advocate, and founder of Adopt a Son, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to liberating and empowering the boy child in South African communities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology and Linguistics from the University of the Witwatersrand, a qualification that deepened her understanding of human behaviour, communication and the complex social factors shaping youth development. She also holds a higher certificate in entrepreneurship and a bachelor of commerce degree from Regent Business School. Guided by a passion for transforming society, Antonette has built a versatile career marked by excellence in project management, data analysis, stakeholder engagement and organisational development. Through Adopt a Son, Antonette addresses the often-overlooked struggles faced by young boys, particularly in underserved communities. The organization provides mentorship, emotional support, behavioural guidance and developmental opportunities that equip boys to grow into confident, responsible and emotionally grounded men. Her commitment extends beyond programme design; she actively engages in community mediation, youth mentorship and socio-economic upliftment. Her leadership is defined by compassion, resilience and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of opportunity. Driven by purpose and grounded in her academic and professional growth, Antonette continues to champion social change, creating spaces where every boy is seen, heard and empowered to thrive. Through the FLP she will further develop her communication skills and foster meaningful working relationships with like minded individuals.

Tintswalo Desiree Bvuma

Tintswalo Desiree Bvuma is a psychology graduate and emerging public service professional with a strong commitment to social justice, child and youth development, and community wellbeing. She holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences and a Bachelor of Psychology Honours from the University of the Free State, as well as a Practical Psychometry qualification from the University of Johannesburg. Her academic work reflects her deep interest in mental health, human behaviour, and how educational and social systems shape life outcomes. As part of her honours degree, she conducted a critical research review examining the relationship between mental health and recidivism among incarcerated offenders. This work highlighted how early psychosocial challenges, when left unsupported, can contribute to long term societal problems. It strengthened her belief in the value of early intervention through schools, families, and community based systems. These insights now guide her aspiration to qualify as an Educational Psychologist, where she hopes to help children and youth build the emotional, cognitive, and social foundations they need to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. Tintswalo has been actively involved in community work for several years. She volunteers at a rehabilitative home, supporting substance affected individuals and their families. She also serves in her church, where she assists with feeding schemes, school holiday programmes, and other outreach initiatives, including helping secure donations for community projects. Her previous experience includes volunteering with Red Frogs SA and mentoring first year students at UFS. She hopes the ASRI Future Leaders Programme will expand her impact in civil society and equip her to contribute to a more inclusive and socially just South Africa.

Thembisile Seabutla

Thembisile is an emerging young leader driven by a passion for community upliftment, ethical leadership, and meaningful political participation. Thembisile’s journey is rooted in hands-on service, listening to people, organising on the ground, and ensuring that ordinary voices shape local democracy. As an active member of the Democratic Alliance, Thembisile has led door-to-door campaigns, voter-engagement initiatives, and community mobilisation efforts that connect policy to real lived experiences. In 2025, Thembisile was elected Chairperson of Ward 28 in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, a role that has strengthened her commitment to responsive and accountable governance. Here, Thembisile works closely with residents, community structures, and local stakeholders to address service delivery challenges and promote active citizenship. Thembisile’s leadership style blends humility with determination, always placing people at the centre of decision-making. At provincial level, Thembisile serves on the Democratic Alliance Youth Provincial Executive Committee of Mpumalanga as Deputy Chairperson for Training and Campaigns. Thembisile leads political education, leadership development, and strategic outreach programmes that empower young activists with the skills and confidence to participate in democracy. A proud alumnus of the Program for Young Politicians in Africa (2025), Thembisile has sharpened her abilities in public leadership, policy engagement, and political strategy. Thembisile’s educational background includes certificates in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Management, and Mobile Digital Literacy, supported by prior studies in Diagnostic Radiography. Across all her roles, Thembisile remains guided by integrity, community service, and a belief that young leaders can drive ethical, people-centred change.

Junior Dala

Junior Dala is an emerging professional with a strong academic foundation and a deep commitment to transforming South African communities. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Governance and Political Transformation and a Bachelor of Spatial Planning Honours with Specialisation in Human Settlements from the University of the Free State, where he developed a multidisciplinary understanding of policy, planning, and community development. Junior’s academic journey has shaped his passion for community service, good governance, and social justice. He is driven by the belief that equitable development and accountable leadership are essential for improving the quality of life in disadvantaged communities. Throughout his studies, he engaged with key issues affecting human settlements, including spatial inequality, sustainable development, and the need for integrated planning approaches that put people at the centre. He is particularly inspired by the role that ethical governance can play in reshaping South Africa’s socio-economic landscape. With his combined background in political transformation and spatial planning, Junior aims to contribute to the design and implementation of development programmes that are inclusive, transparent, and community-focused. Junior sees himself as part of a new generation dedicated to rebuilding trust between communities and institutions. His long-term vision is to continue advocating for fairness, accountability, and development strategies that uplift marginalized groups while fostering resilience and opportunity for all.

Boitumelo Laibah Rakgogo

Boitumelo Laibah Rakgogo is an Accounting Sciences student at the University of South Africa (UNISA) with a strong interest in youth development, economic inclusion, and ethical leadership. She matriculated from an all-girls school where she was exposed to diverse religions, cultures, and perspectives, an experience that played a formative role in shaping her leadership values. As a senior learner, Boitumelo actively inspired her peers and younger students by promoting unity, mutual respect, and understanding across religious differences. She engaged both learners and educators in conversations around inclusion, advocating for the accommodation of different faiths during morning sessions, prayers, and school activities. Through class presentations and everyday interactions, she openly shared her Islamic faith, explaining the principles guiding her hijab, dress, and conduct. Her calm, confident presence helped shift perceptions around the hijab from symbols of oppression to expressions of identity, discipline, and dignity, sparking curiosity and respectful dialogue within her school community. These experiences strengthened her commitment to empowering young people, particularly women, through education and financial literacy. Boitumelo is passionate about teaching youth e-commerce, digital entrepreneurship, and alternative economic pathways that improve livelihoods and strengthen local economies. Guided by Islamic values of justice, accountability, and service, she views leadership as a responsibility to uplift others. Through the ASRI Future Leaders Programme, Boitumelo hopes to deepen her engagement with policy, governance, and youth-focused economic development, while contributing to a more inclusive and equitable South Africa.

Sihle Nzuza

Sihle is a Political Science graduate from the University of Pretoria with a strong interest in policy analysis, economic development, and public engagement. His passion for social change was shaped by early exposure to the NGO sector through his mother’s work, which highlighted the importance of civic participation and people-centred development. Throughout his university career, he held various leadership roles within student organisations and volunteered in initiatives aimed at supporting and empowering students and communities. He currently serves as a Youth Advisor at the Embassy of Sweden in Pretoria, where he contributes to civic education, youth participation, and democratic engagement initiatives. Driven by a commitment to social justice and inclusive development, Sihle aspires to contribute to policy advocacy and community development. He hopes that joining the ASRI Future Leaders Programme will deepen his understanding of socio-political challenges, strengthen his leadership capacity, and enable him to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Senowe Senowe

Senowe Senowe is an Honours student in International Politics with research interests that focus on governance and public policy and socio-economic development throughout South Africa and the entire African continent. He wants to research how institutional frameworks and leadership systems and accountability mechanisms control the daily existence of individuals because he believes good governance functions as the essential solution for both social inequality and sustainable development progress. Through his academic studies, Senowe has developed a solid foundation in international relations, political economy, and global governance, with particular attention to the role of organisations such as the African Union, BRICS, and other multilateral institutions in supporting development and cooperation. He prefers to study practical applications of policy development through their execution and subsequent refinement process to obtain benefits for local communities. Senowe has acquired both leadership abilities and organisational skills through his work in different management and team roles, which have improved his ability to communicate with others and coordinate activities and handle unexpected challenges. His experience working with diverse groups of people has strengthened his dedication to ethical leadership practices and teamwork and community service. He plans to develop his professional career through governance and public service work which will help organisations that support transparent operations and fair economic development and data-driven decision-making processes. The ASRI Future Leaders Programme presents Senowe with an opportunity to develop his leadership abilities while learning from experienced professionals who will help him in making a positive impact on South Africa’s economic growth initiatives.

Mahdiyyah Mayet

Mahdiyyah Mayet is a university graduate interested in social impact, world affairs, climate justice and education. She is passionate about using her knowledge and efforts towards meaningful social change and transformation. Holding a Joint Honours Degree in International Relations and Development Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand, Mahdiyyah brings a decolonial perspective to political and social systems championing global south solutions. She has been involved in NGO efforts with Africa Muslims Agency and UNICEF while also assisting local communities address service delivery issues. Through this she has witnessed the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities which has motivated her to be a force of change with humanitarian work. Mahdiyyah believes that education is the key to development and change and has tutored for the International Relations Department at Wits University. Guiding students in understanding the political and social systems that affect their lives has highlighted the importance of education to her. Mahdiyyah hopes that through the ASRI Future Leaders Programme she will gain the skills and knowledge necessary to further her humanitarian work and become a person committed to positive social change and impact.

Khadijah Klassen

Khadijah Klassen is a Communication Studies graduate, Islamic scholar-in-training, and emerging community leader who is passionate about social justice, women’s empowerment, and meaningful, faith-based education. She is entering her third year of Aalimah studies while simultaneously pursuing Hifdh. Her personal experiences have fuelled her compassion for vulnerable women, especially those facing emotional, spiritual, or psychological harm. Khadijah has taught Quran, Hifdh, Tajweed, and English to learners of all ages. Through this work, she has seen first hand how women often struggle to access consistent Islamic education, especially reverts, working mothers, and older learners. This inspired her vision to build an online Hifdh madrassah that is flexible, supportive, and designed around real-life challenges women face. Her background also includes corporate experience in marketing, where she developed strong communication, branding, and digital engagement skills. This experience strengthened her belief in the power of media and technology to educate, uplift, and create social impact. Khadijah holds a certificate in Software Engineering and plans to pursue postgraduate studies in Development Communication, aiming to combine her communication skills, Islamic knowledge, and policy awareness to address broader societal issues. Deeply shaped by her lived experiences, she is committed to supporting women navigating divorce, trauma, and recovery. Her long-term goal is to work at the intersection of community education, Islamic guidance, and policy – especially in areas that affect women and family well-being. Through the ASRI Future Leaders Programme, she hopes to grow as a leader, deepen her policy understanding, and contribute to building a more compassionate and equitable society.

Tadiwa Tine

Tadiwa Tine is a Community Development practitioner, social media strategist, and content creator passionate about youth and women empowerment. She holds a BA and BA Honours in Community Development and Leadership from the University of Johannesburg. She has led community projects such as the iMbali Zokudla Garden at MES Impilo Shelter, focusing on sustainable food production and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Tadiwa has volunteered and worked with several NGOs, including UNDP, Red Frogs, Scripture Union, and EmpowHer. She is a member of the Youth Policy Committee (YPC) at SAIIA, experiences that motivate her to pursue youth-related issues and spark a deeper interest in research, social policy, and evidence-based interventions. Her participation as a mentee in Girls4Girls inspired her to become a mentor at university, guiding young people to navigate education and professional spaces confidently. As a skilled content creator and social media strategist, Tadiwa leverages digital platforms to amplify impactful narratives around social change, empowerment, and community development. Her expertise spans content planning, strategy, video production, and campaign analytics, linking storytelling with advocacy. Driven by the principles of service, sustainability, and inclusive growth, Tadiwa strives to create opportunities for youth and marginalized communities. She aspires to combine her knowledge of community development, research, and digital strategy to lead initiatives that address unemployment, gender inequities, and youth inclusion in South Africa. Her long-term goal is to catalyze social and economic change through innovative, community-focused interventions and to mentor the next generation of leaders who will build equitable and sustainable futures.

Salahudin Abdi

I am Salahudin Ahmed Abdi, a recent BCom Logistics and Supply Chain Management graduate from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), currently pursuing an Honours degree. Passionate about youth development, community engagement, and empowerment, I am driven to use efficient systems to address South Africa’s socio-economic challenges like poverty and inequality, in line with UN SDGs. Growing up in Mayfair, I witnessed poor resource distribution firsthand, fueling my commitment to equitable solutions and sustainable development. My academic projects sharpened my analytical skills using simulation modeling, exponential smoothing for demand forecasting, mean average demand, and regression analysis. Through UNICEF volunteering at UJ on climate change, I taught kids sustainability via waste reduction, recycling and resource planning, leading in activities, our team coordinated games of how long different materials take to biodegrade, and adapting to issues like weather disruptions. I also participated in various community outreach initiatives, including mosque volunteer programs during Ramadan—particularly Taraweeh and (late-night prayers)—as well as food parcel drives, packaging and distribution to deserving communities. I assisted in supporting elders, women, orphans and vulnerable members in equitable aid delivery. I aim to become a leader driving accountable governance, nation-building, and youth empowerment, contributing to ASRI’s social justice mission.

Aisha Khumalo

Aisha is a passionate chemist and emerging leader in scientific research and education. Born in Zimbabwe, she has built a strong academic foundation in South Africa, where she pursues innovative solutions at the intersection of chemistry, biochemistry, and technology. She matriculated in 2017 before enrolling at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). There, she earned a BSc in Physical Sciences majoring in Biochemistry and Chemistry in 2021, followed by a BSc Honours in Chemistry in 2022. She completed her MSc in Chemistry in 2025 and is now in her second year of a PhD in Chemistry, focusing on advancing renewable energy production and storage. Her professional experience reflects a commitment to mentorship and hands-on innovation. In 2021, as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in UJ’s Department of Chemical Sciences, Aisha supported projects under the Metacatalysis research group’s guidance. She further honed her teaching skills as a Demonstrator and Tutor in the same department, from 2022 to 2024, facilitating student learning in chemistry concepts. Aisha’s community engagement underscores her dedication to empowerment and global collaboration. She volunteered at UJ in 2018, contributing to campus initiatives under Volunteering Champions. Her involvement with AIESEC in South Africa since 2023 has enabled her to participate in youth development programs, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and leadership skills. In 2021 she started developing digital manufacturing skills, including 3D printing (both FDM and SLA), laser cutting and CNC (as of 2023) and this pushed her to learn Computer-Aided Design as well. Her participation in the FLP by ASRI aligns perfectly with her goal of becoming a transformative leader in STEM, advocating for inclusive education and research that benefits underserved communities in Africa.