Future Leaders Class of 2025

Aa’ishah Begg

Aa’ishah is a Senior Architectural Technologist who acquired her Bachelors of Architecture Honours at the university of Pretoria in 2022. She is driven by the principles of justice and charity in Islam. Her involvement in volunteering for NPO’s, involvement with the MSA and ANCYL and architectural research and practice in heritage, education and public works formed part of what paved the way to her passion for activist design and co-design. She is a former architectural archivist who found that through cartographic research, one can develop a good understanding of South African narratives and unequal spaces. She enjoys exploring such narratives through various mapping analysis and drawing methods. She strongly believes one should design with an honest and fluid hand that strives to preserve narratives, encourage transparency, advocate for those who can’t for themselves and be the voice for social and spatial healing. She strives to become a professional architect and urban designer who leads small scale and large scale projects that creates solutions towards a free South Africa through decolonisation and decarbonisation. One of her goals is to break the apartheid city model through conducting impactful research and prototyping of sustainable innovative technologies and building methods to create spaces of equality, hope, community and belonging in South African cities.

Aqeelah Bray

Aqeelah Bray is a dedicated and passionate researcher and aspiring educator with an academic background in Gender Studies, Anthropology, and English. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Cape Town (UCT), where she triple-majored in these fields, followed by an Honours degree in Gender and Transformation. Currently, she is pursuing an MPhil in Islam, Gender, and Sexuality at UCT. Her research interests centre on the intersections of gender, religion, and sexuality and morality. Throughout her academic journey, Aqeelah has gained experience in research, writing, and teaching. She was previously a research assistant in the Legal Experience Project and the Muslim Personal Law Network, which strives to develop a feminist perspective in Muslim family law reform in South Africa. She has also tutored at the African Gender Studies Institute and Department of Sociology at UCT, where she facilitated student engagement on various topics. Her editorial expertise was demonstrated in her role as Senior Editor for Her Campus UCT and as part of the editorial team at Varsity Newspaper. These roles have sharpened her skills in content creation, editing, and mentoring aspiring writers. Aqeelah is driven to explore social justice issues, particularly those affecting marginalized communities in the global south, and aims to continue making a meaningful impact through her research and advocacy. This perfectly aligns with ASRI’s pluralistic approach to altruistic endeavours which she hopes will deepen her understanding of social issues to further develop practical that contribute to meaningful change and the advancement of social justice in South Africa.

Chloë Brink

Chloë Brink is a final-year Bachelor of Arts student at the University of South Africa, specialising in Government Administration and Development, with a focus on politics and public administration. Her academic journey is complemented by practical experience in community engagement and youth empowerment. As a Lead Volunteer and Facilitator, Chloë has developed strong advocacy skills, particularly in supporting vulnerable populations. Her work in youth programs has refined her emotional management abilities and deepened her commitment to creating safe and supportive spaces for young people. Her diverse experiences have given her a deep understanding of community dynamics and the role of advocacy in addressing critical social issues, particularly gender-based violence. As she nears graduation, Chloë is eager to apply her knowledge and experience to create meaningful change, focusing on policies that empower individuals and strengthen communities. Chloë looks forward to joining the 2025 ASRI Future Leaders Fellowship, where she will continue to build her capacity to serve and empower others. This opportunity aligns with her passion for social justice, providing her with the tools to drive tangible solutions that contribute to a more equitable and just society.

Siyasanga Nyangiwe

Siyasanga Nyangiwe is a 25 year-old female born in Lusikisiki and raised in East London, Eastern Cape, South South Africa. She completed her matric in East London Secondary School, East London. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (in Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences) and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand. She describes herself as innovative, open-minded and multi-facetted. She is passionate about human rights advocacy, leadership and active citizenship. She took an initiative to develop her leadership skills by completing the Wits Emerging Leaders Program 2022 hosted by the Wits Development and Leadership Unit. She also participated in the WCCO-ASRI Civic Leadership Program 2022 which entailed discussions on politics, governance, law, social justice issues, economics, history, etc. She served as the Treasurer 2022/23 of the Wits Moot Court Society, an organization that assists law students with crucial legal skills. She also served as the Project Manager 2022/23 of the Wits History Makers Society, an organisation that assists students with developing digital and entrepreneurial skills. As a result of her extensive community involvement, she got an opportunity to participate in the Open Society University Network (OSUN) Get Engaged Conference for Student Action and Youth Leadership 2023 which took place in the Central European University, Budapest, Hungary. She also got selected to participate in the UNFCCC COP29 under the PUSH Sverige (a youth climate activism organisation) delegation taking place on 11-22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. She hopes the FLP will be a perfect platform for her to develop her advocacy and communication skills and network with other leaders and organizations. Her goal is to become a public servant who drives change through policy-making and development.

Saalihah Kamaar

Saalihah Kamaar is a passionate advocate for the well-being of nature, children, and women, hailing from a small community where she was raised by a determined single mother. Growing up in a close-knit environment, Saalihah developed a profound connection to her surroundings, often exploring nature around her, which nurtured her love for the natural world. Her mother instilled in her the values of resilience and compassion, encouraging Saalihah to dream big despite their modest circumstances. With a strong desire to create positive change, Saalihah pursued a BA Degree in International Relations at the University of South Africa. There, she focused on economics, politics, environmental policy, and civil rights and liberties, determined to address the pressing issues facing both the planet and vulnerable populations. During her studies, she became deeply invested in initiatives supporting women’s empowerment and children’s rights, recognizing that these causes are vital for sustainable progress. She joined the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Youth Club and dedicated herself to non-profit work, collaborating with organizations that advocate for environmental conservation and social justice. Her experiences working with marginalized communities have further fuelled her commitment to amplifying their voices and ensuring access to resources and opportunities. Saalihah’s vision is rooted in her upbringing, and she aspires to inspire future generations to take action for a healthier planet and a more equitable society. With her unwavering dedication and the lessons learned from her mother, she is determined to make a lasting impact, championing a world where nature flourishes, and every child and woman can thrive.

Reneilwe Bambo

I am Reneilwe Bambo, a writer and artist and an aspiring clinical psychologist and academic. I hold an honours degree in Psychology and I am interested in using decolonial theory and community psychology to bring about social change in institutions for black communities to prosper. I volunteer at a non-profit organisation that bring awareness to social issues in our communities and have been part of campaigns in local primary schools and high schools, providing education on substance abuse and supporting community members in accessing mental health resources. I also write newsletter essays on the experiences of being black in South Africa to amplify underrepresented voices, stories and identities and sparking conversations around systemic inequality. Growing up in the townships ignited my passion for social justice, and I continue in my commitment to speaking out against injustice. I am looking forward to joining the ASRI Future Leaders Programme to gain the relevent skills to become a competent person, academic and leader.

Khanyisile Ngqalela’s

Khanyisile Ngqalela’s activism as a volunteer facilitator at Equal Education is closely connected to their academic background in Anthropology and Psychology. With a BA and Honours degree from Nelson Mandela University, she has developed strong skills in qualitative research and a deep understanding of social dynamics. This academic foundation enables them to approach activism with a focus on the lived experiences of those facing socio economic inequality. In their role at EE, Khanyisile uses ethnographic methods like participant observation and interviews to better understand the challenges learners and students encounter. This practical approach ensures that the organisation’s interventions are relevant and impactful. They have applied these skills in initiatives such as mobilizing the University of Fort Hare Equal Education Student Society and helping in planning events focused on health education, emphasising the importance of understanding community needs and measuring the impact of their work. Her research background keeps their advocacy strategies grounded in thorough analysis, while also ensuring cultural sensitivity. This allows them to contribute meaningfully not just at the grassroots level but also in broader policy discussions. For Khanyisile, its about bridging the gap between academic research and practical activism to drive meaningful change for marginalised groups.

Taskeen Noorbhai

I matriculated from an Islamic school in Johannesburg and went on to pursue Multimedia Design. My experience as a creative designer has deepened my understanding of the critical role communication plays in shaping human experiences. Design, for me, is a powerful tool for visual storytelling, where the ability to “read the room,” understand objectives, and solve problems through innovative approaches becomes essential. I view design as more than just functionality—it’s about also crafting meaningful experiences that evoke emotion and foster connection. I am deeply passionate about human psychology, particularly how design influences perception and interaction. My journey has been one of learning through keen observation and active listening, which has cultivated my desire to serve others. I believe that creativity has the transformative power to drive cultural change, and I want to use my skillset to be in service. In addition to my professional background, I am actively involved in the “Ansari Youth Club,” where we engage in various community projects that promote the Sufi principles of Love, Peace, and Togetherness for the greater good. This spirit of service, combined with my passion for storytelling and design, drives me to want continuously grow and contribute meaningfully to society.

Hlengiwe Xulu

Hlengiwe Xulu is a black rights, social justice and education advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Arts, Undergraduate and Honors Degree, in Public Management and Governance from the University of Johannesburg. She also holds a second Honors Degree in Politics and International, still from the University of Johannesburg. Hlengiwe has served in the student space from 2019. She led in UJ’s Student Representative Council in both 2022/23 and 2023/24. Growing up in the hustle and bustle of the City of Johannesburg, Hlengiwe gained exposure to the various living conditions black, marginalised communities live under in contrast to the suburban elitists. This then triggered an interest in activism and becoming a catalyst for positive change in the black community. In 2016, Hlengiwe was selected to form part of the Johannesburg Junor Council under the Advocacy wing, allowing her to further grow as a young leader and critically interrogate challenges faced in the community, especially by young people. Additionally, Hlengiwe shares a passion of supporting women and children who are victims of gender-based violence and is eager to form part of a generation that can establish a safe haven for such victims but, also capacitate them to defend themselves. As a dedicated and goal-driven young woman, Hlengiwe believes that ASRI will sharpen her even more as a young leader, further equip her with the necessary skills to bring about change and best position her to make a difference, one life at a time.

Zahra Omar

I’m Zahra Omar, a 22-year-old Engineering student with a strong passion for leadership and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Originally from South Africa, I moved to Mauritania at the age of 10 to pursue my Hifz studies. Although leaving my home and family at such a young age was difficult, it instilled in me the patience, discipline, and determination that continue to guide me through life’s challenges. One of the most rewarding experiences in my journey has been teaching English to children in Mauritania. This opportunity allowed me to not only develop my own communication skills but also bridge cultural and language gaps while helping young learners grow. It reinforced my belief in the power of education to empower individuals and communities. Beyond English, I’ve had the privilege of teaching Hifz to children, where I’ve been able to pass on the lessons of focus, patience, and dedication that I’ve learned throughout my own studies. These teaching experiences have been incredibly fulfilling, reminding me of the transformative role that education plays in shaping minds and futures. In addition to my academic and teaching experiences, I’ve taken on leadership roles within my college, most notably as a class representative. In this role, I’ve been responsible for representing my peers, addressing their concerns, and serving as the link between the students and faculty. This experience has given me a firsthand understanding of the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, while also developing my leadership skills in a practical, real-world context. As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue growing both personally and professionally. My experiences so far have fueled my desire to contribute meaningfully to society, whether through engineering, education, or leadership. I believe that with a clear vision, persistence, and a heart for change, it’s possible to make a lasting difference, and I’m committed to being part of that change.

Lethabo Rapudi

Lethabo Rapudi, aged 24, is passionate about human rights law, research, and community development activities. With expertise in facilitating outreach programs to communities in need, she has successfully implemented initiatives such as mediation, school programs against bullying, and “Know Your Rights” campaigns. Lethabo holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Limpopo and is currently pursuing a Master of Laws in Human Rights Law. Her leadership experience includes serving as Chairperson and National Deputy President of the South African Women Lawyers Association Student Chapter. She has also formed part of impactful community engagement projects, including the “100 Days Challenge to End GBV” initiative by Limpopo Courts. Driven by a passion for social justice, Lethabo is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others through her work in human rights law.

Fahimah Ssemanda

Fahimah Ssemanda is a dedicated public health professional and humanitarian with a passion for sustainable development and socio-economic empowerment. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and has spearheaded projects across Africa, focusing on water access, health advocacy, and community development. Through her organization, AquaCare Initiative, she leads efforts to provide clean water through innovative solar-powered Water ATMs, which serve as a lifeline for underserved rural communities. As a YALI alumna in Civic Leadership, Fahimah gained valuable experience in governance, policy, and community building. Her leadership extends to The Council for Young Africans, where she led a breast cancer awareness campaign for migrant women in Sudan and worked on peacebuilding initiatives in conflict zones. Fahimah’s passion for research is evident in her ongoing study of conflict resolution in Africa, assessing the socio-economic impact of African Union peacekeeping efforts. Looking forward, Fahimah aims to leverage her expertise to contribute to policy change and leadership in sustainable development. She is committed to bridging gaps in healthcare and basic services, particularly for marginalized populations, and believes the ASRI Future Leaders Programme will help her refine the skills necessary to drive impactful policy solutions across Africa.

Maimoona Mabena

Maimoona Mabena is an enthusiastic individual dedicated to exploring the world and positively impacting her community, whose life journey has taken her from Pretoria to Johannesburg and across borders for her education and career pursuits. After matriculating in 2014, she embarked on an exciting journey to Cyprus, where she pursued a year of Business Administration at Cyprus International University(CIU). Determined to study in Türkiye, she made her way and decided to change her academic focus to International Trade at Istanbul Aydin University (IAU). This change allowed her to work in the university’s International Student Relations office and participate in a student exchange program in Poland, where she co-authored an academic book on marketing management. After returning to South Africa, Maimoona started her career as an administrator, later becoming a junior account clerk and hosting on the INX channel. She remains committed to community service as an administrative volunteer with ANNET, supporting causes she is passionate about. With each step, she continues to embrace new challenges, make a positive impact on those around her, strive for excellence in all her endeavors, and continually seek growth in all she does. Maimoona looks forward to contributing to and most importantly learning from this esteemed Auwal Socio-economic Research Institute Future Leaders program, as she aspires to further her studies in media studies and ultimately obtain a master’s degree. Maimoona’s goal is to become a renowned strategist within the nonprofit sector, assisting organizations that uplift the lives of individuals from townships and other overlooked areas.

Hawaa Ruweida Khoele

My name is Hawaa Ruweida Khoele, and I am a 26-year-old professional with a strong passion for entrepreneurship and business administration. I completed my high school education at Benoni Muslim School and later graduated from Tshwane University of Technology with a National Diploma in Entrepreneurship and an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration. During my time at university, I worked as a student assistant, which sharpened my communication skills, time management, and administrative abilities. In 2023, I participated in a risk assessment project where I interviewed representatives from NGOs and NPCs about potential risks related to corruption, fraud, and terrorist financing. This experience broadened my research skills and deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by non-profit organisations. Currently, I work from home as an administrator for an engineering company, where I continue to develop my administrative and organisational skills. I enjoy supporting my team and contributing to the company’s goals. Outside of my professional life, I am passionate about community work and making a positive impact. I believe in the power of giving back and actively seek opportunities to help others. As a dedicated, friendly, and hardworking individual, I am committed to continuous learning and personal growth. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to the chance to contribute meaningfully through the ASRI Future Leaders Programme 2025.

Kouthar Hussain

My name is Kouthar, and I am a proud Nelson Mandela University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Physiology. I have also completed two honours degrees—one in Human Physiology and the other in Virology. Currently, I am pursuing my MSc dissertation by research in Medical Virology at the University of Witwatersrand, focusing on crucial public health issues. My academic journey has given me a fresh perspective on the intersection between science, health, and societal well-being. Through my studies, I have come to appreciate how scientific research can inform and transform civil society. My focus on virology and public health has deepened my understanding of the health disparities faced by marginalized communities and the systemic barriers that hinder access to healthcare. I am actively involved in advocating for social justice. I believe that by combining what I’ve learned in science with my passion for activism, I can help bring attention to the health disparities that many people face and push for policies that lead to better, more equitable healthcare for all. My goal is to use my voice and my knowledge to fight for a healthier, fairer future.

Sinazo Sijovu

Sinazo Sijovu is an enthusiastic advocate for social justice, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development. She holds an MA (Diplomatic Studies) degree from the University of Pretoria as well as a triple major Politics, Philosophy, and Economics Honours qualification from the University of Cape Town. She has honed a deep understanding of global governance, and the intersection between peace, gender as well as climate, and economic justice. With a particular interest in Just Transition issues, she has a deep commitment to advancing sustainable and inclusive policies regionally and continentally. Sinazo is socially conscious, and this is reflected both in her work and interests. She served on the Advocacy Committee of the Johannesburg Juniour Council in 2017 before she went on to be an active student leader during her university years. She played a pivotal role in driving conversations and student-led policies around inclusive education, gender equality, and youth empowerment in South Africa’s leading institutions of higher learning. Sinazo has dedicated four years in the nonprofit sector as part of Marang Charity Drive, supporting the facilitation of various projects that promote education, healthcare, and social welfare among vulnerable communities in Gauteng. Driven by a desire to create meaningful change, Sinazo’ s activism and participation in grassroots-level projects have been consistent with her commitment to feminist economics and inclusive development. She hopes to make impactful contributions in the public service by addressing systemic inequalities and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups in the current ever-changing global landscape.