Municipal Oversight & Accountability Programme: Potchefstroom

Immanuel Brian Miller

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Public Governance with a focus on Public Administration and Politics from North-West University (2023), and I am currently pursuing an Honours degree in Politics. My research focuses on democratic decay and consolidation in South Africa, exploring the complex factors influencing these processes. My professional background spans roles in administration, entrepreneurship, and activism. I have served as an administrative assistant for the Humanities Faculty at North-West University, where I supported academic staff, managed administrative tasks, and coordinated faculty events. In 2021, a dear compatriot and I launched our own mobile coffee business, which allowed me to develop my entrepreneurial skills and resilience. In addition to my business ventures, I am passionate about student empowerment and social justice. I’ve provided life coaching and career advice to students, particularly those facing socio-economic challenges. I also founded a network that helps students access funding opportunities like NSFAS, ensuring they have the resources to succeed. Through my diverse experiences, I’ve developed strong analytical thinking and interpersonal skills, shaped by my involvement in athletics, youth activism, and community engagement. I’m committed to making a meaningful impact both in my academic work and professional pursuits.

Tshegofatso Tshehla

I am a problem solver, activist and senior engineering student. My passion for solving problems has propelled me into various sectors spanning energy, consulting and digital services. My experiences have helped shaped my perspective of the socio-economic complexities facing South Africans, equipping me with a framework that I utilise in my advocacy work, in the education sector. I am involved in student organisations and faculty programs aimed at improving STEM education outcomes in secondary schools. Recent accolades include the NWU student advocacy award (2023) for my work. In recent times communities have increasingly played a larger role in preserving their infrastructure. It is my belief that the mobilisation of stakeholders, collaboration with community members and the agency of people produce sustainable change. I am determined to apply this thinking to advocate for more investment in skills development and economic empowerment of youth.

Belinda Mnotoza

I am Belinda Mnotoza, a law student at North West University. I am fuelled by a passion for justice and a desire to effect social change. Growing up in small town in Gauteng, I have developed a keen awareness of social issues and the critical role of law in advocating for marginalized communities. I am committed to academic success at the university, and I actively look for chances to interact with pressing legal topics to expand my knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals. I am dedicated to education and personal development. In the future, I hope to utilize my legal expertise to motivate people and advocate for a fairer world.

Oratile Tshwaana

I’m a final year B.Com. Financial Accountancy student, therefore my love for accounting comes as long as my grandmother taught me how to do all her monthly purchases and settle all her accounts from the age of 12 so she could raise my other siblings. After a few years when I started doing accounting at school, I realised I’ve been doing it all along and just wasn’t aware of what it was. Then I was introduced to SEF at the age of 16 where I helped my grandmother and some of her friends fill in the loan forms to get funds for their small businesses and deposit all their monthly contributions to pay off the loans. After spending almost all my high school years helping those elderly women, I realised how many of those women all they ever wanted was someone younger and with all the necessary knowledge and skills to help them fulfil their dreams of owning business and providing for their families. Therefore, I am pursuing a career in accounting to be able to provide for all the elderly people all over the country of the world to provide for their families and improve their living conditions through providing them with free and adequate financial planning and advisory however needed.

Mathlatsi Dambuza

I am Mathlatsi Dambuza (21), an executive director of Polaeco, an activist and a student leader at North-West University, currently completing my final year in Bachelor of Philosophy with Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). I am deeply passionate about political campaigns and youth empowerment, particularly focusing on equipping young women to passionately enter leadership roles. In 2024, I founded an NPO dedicated to empowering young women and fostering leadership development. We have expanded the organisation to NWU’s Potchefstroom campus as a society to equip young women with leadership skills and promote mentorship and gender equality as a lived reality. My passion for political campaigns extends to political engagement with voters, where I focus on educating communities about the importance of voting. I believe in empowering individuals through voter education to make informed decisions that shape our society. Since 2021, I have been actively volunteering and continue to pursue ways to make a meaningful impact through political engagements and youth empowerment.

Hassan Mkhize

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree in Public Administration at North-West University. I have a deep passion for community development and upliftment, with a keen concern for the hardships faced by startup businesses as the founder of Zano Industries. In 2019 I volunteered at the annual ABH Chatsworth Fair, a community fundraising initiative that has been running since 1989. I was part of the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) leadership camp of 2023. I was a member of the 2024 North-West University stakeholder forum meeting. I was part of the 2024 Young African Entrepreneurs Institution’s (YAEI) Youth Innovation Challenge. I believe more can be done for our communities with thorough scrutiny and accountability of public spending to improve service delivery and living conditions. I am keen to learn from all in attendance. It is only by acting upon our knowledge that we truly impact our society and communities.

Kgomotso Mphela

I am a dedicated student, doing my second year of a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration in the School of Government, at the North West University, Potchefstroom Campus. My areas of study include public finances, processes and functions of policymaking, planning and organisational development, human resource management and development in the public sector. I am an active affiliate member of the South Africa Association of Public Administration and Management, with a passion for community issues and entrepreneurship. I have extensive experience in both professional and university positions. In 2022, I started with my voluntary engagement with ARISE South Africa as a researcher for the strategy and research committee. Our primary responsibilities as a committee entailed developing the party organisation’s strategic plan, which was accomplished by conducting in-depth research to ensure that well-informed decisions were made for the party. I was then nominated and appointed to the provincial executive committee of ARISE South Africa North West Province, where I actively engaged with a variety of issues that were directly affecting the province. This experience allowed me to gain first-hand knowledge and understanding of the challenges faced by the region, which fuelled my desire to make a positive impact.

Ofentse Leping

I am a 23 years old and a visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community champion from Potchefstroom, South Africa. Born with a passion for entertainment and community development, I have dedicated my life to creating unforgettable experiences and positive change. Am a founder and owner of Private Entertainment Co. and MK Exclusive Pro and my innovative ventures specialise in exclusive events, parties, and experiences showcasing luxury, sophistication, and world-class entertainment. My companies cater to diverse clientele, fostering social cohesion, economic growth, and community unity. Through charity events, fundraisers, and community development projects, I have empowered local youth through mentorship and skills development programs. My commitment to community well-being has earned me a recognition as a respected business leader and philanthropist. My dedication inspires positive change, fostering a brighter future for my community.

Daniella Sepotokele

I am an engineering student and a verified forex trader. I am a tutor and would also like to start helping out academically in my community. I’d like to learn more about leadership and accountability. As I want to change my study field and go into the public governance and policing path. I want to broaden my knowledge and learn more from other people’s experiences. While sharing opinions and opportunities with likeminded people.

Cradwin Tafita

I am 31 years of age, currently residing in Potchefstroom. I am a dedicated ward committee member, actively participating in the well-being of my ward, my city, and the broader province. We need leaders who prioritize the well-being of our people over themselves. Driven by this belief, I grew tired of merely complaining and decided to get involved directly. I am committed to making a tangible difference in my community by offering support, facilitating programs, and leading initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those around me. My hands-on approach ensures that I am in the field, addressing issues firsthand and working alongside fellow community members to create a better future for all.

Aphiwe Madlala

As a student at North West University, pursuing a degree in public governance and public administration, I have developed a strong interest in governance. My goal is to become a policy analyst and contribute to effective governance in Africa. Having grown up in a disadvantaged community, I am passionate about addressing corruption and maladministration which hinder social and economic development. As a woman, I am eager to learn and explore new ideas, particularly in African politics. My favourite topic is African cooperation and development, specifically when African countries unite to address poverty and drive progress. I am excited to learn more about initiatives like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, I am excited to learn about municipal oversight and accountability, as I believe that effective local governance is crucial for building stronger, more resilient communities.

Nthabiseng Dipale

I am a 30 year old woman employed by the JB Marks Local Municipality as a land administrative officer under the Land Development and Property Rights division of the Human Settlement planning directorate. Our office focuses on new developments within JB Marks such as township establishment, special consent, subdivision of land, rezoning and upgrading of property rights. I hold an Honours degree in Development Studies from the North West University which focused on policy analysis and formulation, rural and urban development, RDP and NDP policies, as well as land reform. My goal as a government employee is to become a valued asset and not only to the institution but to the members of the community too and seeking opportunities for professional challenges that will help me grow.

Kegomoditswe Bonolo Tong

My name is Kegomoditswe Bonolo Tong. I am a liaison officer at Sibone Holdings. I am also a paralegal student with some knowledge of property law and conveyance practice, debt collecting processes, criminal law and legal procedure, wills and estate management, and civil litigation processes. I am currently completing a Diploma in Public Relations at the University Of South Africa as well as a Diploma in Paralegal studies at Damelin Correspondence College.

Lethabo Angel Maseko

I am a 22-year-old student at Northwest University’s Potchefstroom campus pursuing a degree in Public Governance, Public Administration, and Labour Relations Management. With a strong academic background in artificial intelligence, data analysis, and project management I have excelled in combining technical proficiency with a deep understanding of governance and administrative systems my passion for leadership and public service has been demonstrated through active participation in various student governance roles. I previously served as the secretary of the Humanities Student Academic Chapter, where my exceptional organisational and communication skills ensured the smooth execution of academic initiatives. I am currently the community and stakeholder engagement officer on the NWU Student Campus Council, in which role I collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance the student experience and foster positive community relations. The combination of academic knowledge and leadership experience has equipped me with a well-rounded skill set. Being a student leader has strengthened problem-solving capabilities, project management expertise, and the ability to engage with stakeholders, critical skills for a future career in governance and public administration.

Mbali Hadebe

My name is Mbali Hadebe and I am from Johannesburg, I am currently doing my second year at the North West University. I am a dedicated person who is passionate about community service and public sector development. Given my experience in a non-profit organisation as well as other community outreach programmes that I have participated in, I have learned and gained skills which have helped me to make a positive impact in our communities. I am eager to deepen my understanding of the functioning of government institutions and entities, and my aim is to enhance collaboration between the public and non-profit sectors for more effective community outcomes.