Mamelani Projects Community Development Organisation

” We hear you. We see you. You matter. “

Our background

From humble beginnings in 2003, Mamelani is a vibrant and well-established community development organisation. Our name is inspired by the isiXhosa phrase ‘masimamelaneni’ which means ‘we must listen to each other’ as we believe it is through listening deeply to each other that real transformation is possible.

Our Approach

We believe that building resilience, well-being, and a sense of community, are key factors in achieving transformation at both individual and community levels. We have therefore developed a set of practice principles to ensure that we achieve these objectives. Everything we do is informed by our practice principles; we work in ways that are:

MEET THE TEAM

DIRECTOR

I was born and bred on the Cape Flats with lots of bredies and breyanies. The struggles of my community enhanced my resilience as I constantly searched for knowledge and skills. Youth development in South Africa needs all the positive influences it can get and I am passionate about being part of the Mamelani team who are trying to do just that. I live by the saying that “all things happen together for the good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose”.

DIRECTOR

YOUTH RESILIENCE FACILITATOR

I always had a keen interest in working with the youth of South Africa. Throughout my studies, my voluntary work involved supporting young people in various ways. I enjoy working at Mamelani because the organisation provides the platform to engage with the youth and hear them speak out about their struggles and changes they would like to see. Working at Mamelani has allowed me to realise my dream of walking alongside the youth and help them achieve their dreams and aspirations.

YOUTH RESILIENCE FACILITATOR

I grow up in a childcare center with the vision that one day I will be the change I wish to see in the world. I am an experienced Capoeirista (Brazilian Martial Arts), and throughout my training days I always had a positive effect on people around me and that is what I wish to continue doing at Mamelani. I’m also the co-founder of Ibali Coffee Shop which will be launched soon. Working at Mamelani means I have the privilege of being surrounded by a community/ family of mentors who have always helped me grow into the person I am today.

ADHERENCE CLUB FACILITATOR

I believe that change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. Therefore, after completing my training with Mamelani as a Community Champion, I started working with various NGOs, advocating for better TB and HIV care in the marginalised communities. I enjoy my role at Kuyasa clinic, where I am working closely with the clinic staff to motivate people to join Mamelani’s ARV club and share essential health information with the community.

OFFICE AND MANAGER

I regard it as a privilege to be part of a team that not only plays an enormous role in the lives of so many women and young people in our communities but one that is also relationally-oriented and supportive of one another. My belief that the meaning of life ultimately lies in relationship is a value which Mamelani strongly upholds. I am also a registered counsellor with a passion for people’s healing and personal development.

YOUTH RESILIENCE FACILITATOR

ADHERENCE CLUB FACILITATOR

OFFICE AND MANAGER

YOUTH RESILIENCE FACILITATOR

ADHERENCE CLUB FACILITATOR

OFFICE AND MANAGER

SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH (UWC)

Thandi is a Professor at the School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape. Her areas of specialisation are public health nutrition, chronic non-communicable diseases, child health and monitoring and evaluation of programmes. She works with Community Health Workers in increasing awareness about non-communicable diseas and also has expertise, using motivation interviews for behaviour modification and in using participatory research methods.

SENIOR INVESMENT SPECIALIST AT NEDBANK CIB PROPERTY PARTNERS, CHAIRPERSON

Lisa’s professional background is in investment banking, finance and tax. She is a Senior Investment Specialist at Nedbank CIB Property Partners. She previously served on the Board of the Investec Community Fund, was a mentor on the Investec panel for Young Students and Entrepreneurs, and volunteered at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital. Lisa is our current Chairperson and longest standing Trustee, having served on the board since 2006