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Mpilonhle is a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the health and social development of youth

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Who We Are & What We Do

Mpilonhle is a community-based non-profit organisation located in northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We are dedicated to finding practical solutions to the health and social challenges facing young people, particularly those living in poverty.

Our focus is on bringing essential services and support directly to the communities that need them most.
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Our Donors

Reflections from a Donor

One of our donors, Rob Stewart, shares his reflections on the progress made through his contributions and praises the transformative work Mpilonhle is doing to uplift youth through digital education and opportunity.

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Programmes

The smallest effort can lead to the greatest change

Mpilonhle Timeline

2006
2007
2007
2009
2009
2009
2010
2011
2012
2012
2016
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2019
2020
2020-2022
2023
2023

Mpilonhle founded

Mpilonhle was established by three individuals with diverse backgrounds: Dr JP Sevilla, a Harvard-trained economist; Ms Marie-Christine Ryckaert, a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Director of Executive Education at the Kennedy School; and Dr Michael Bennish, a paediatrician with sub-speciality training in infectious diseases.

Innovative mobile health units constructed

Mpilonhle works with award-winning East Coast Architects to design innovative, attractive, and welcoming self-contained mobile units. These units include examination rooms that offer auditory and visual privacy, as well as separate classroom spaces. The ruggedised units are still functioning well 18 years later.

Mpilonhle officially launched

Charlize Theron officially launched the Mpilonhle programme alongside the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Eric Bost at Nhliziyo High School, a site where Mpilonhle remains actively engaged to this day.

Mpilonhle publishes research on “Condom Access in South African Schools: Law, Policy, and Practice”

This important study reinforced the ability to provide sexual and reproductive health services to students in schools, as well as their right to consent to such services under the far-sighted Children’s Act of 2007, enacted by the South African Government.

OneSight vision clinics

In collaboration with the OneSight Programme of the EssilorLuxottica Foundation, Mpilonhle organised clinics that, to date, have brought eye health screening to over 100,000 community members, along with the provision of corrective lenses and referrals for those who required them.

TOMS shoes distribution

Mpilonhle partnered with the charitable arm of TOMS Shoes to distribute school shoes to over 175,000 young people in the rural communities we serve. Many children struggle to attend school simply because they can’t afford shoes or uniforms. This programme helped remove that barrier and made it easier for them to access education.

FIFA world cup comes to South Africa

In 2010, the FIFA world cup came to Africa for the first time. Schools were placed on an extended holiday during the tournament. At Mpilonhle, we used this opportunity productively by partnering with Grassroot Soccer to run health-focused sports camps while students were out of school. We also took more than 1,000 primary and secondary school learners to watch World Cup matches in Durban — for many, it was their first time leaving the rural communities they live in.

Mpilonhle recognised for work in testing for HIV amongst youth

In recognition of Mpilonhle screening more than 20,000 youth for HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and general health issues, it became the first organisation to receive explicit approval to conduct HIV testing in schools.

Mpilonhle builds four soccer fields at high schools

With support from the Entertainment Industry Foundation and the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, Mpilonhle constructed sports fields at four high schools. In this water-scarce area, we also provided a source of clean water from boreholes, which is used not only for watering the fields but also for supplying safe drinking water for the schools, developing food gardens, and providing a community laundry

Mpilonhle recognised as one of 12 model public health programmes in South Africa

A nationwide survey of best practices, conducted by the Health Systems Trust for Atlantic Philanthropies and the South African National Department of Health, identified Mpilonhle’s school health programme as one of the 12 best public and community health programmes in the country, as documented in “Documenting Good Practices in the Public Health Sector of South Africa: From Policy to Practice.”

Focus on women’s empowerment and gender-based violence.

With support from the Global Fund, Mpilonhle developed a comprehensive Adolescent Girls and Young Women’s (AGYW) programme, offering a range of services to 50,000 young women, both in and out of school. These services included programmes for economic empowerment, education on healthy relationships and how to navigate unhealthy ones, support for young women who have been abused, programmes for at-risk young men, and parenting skills development.

Launch of computer learning programme at schools

Mpilonhle launched four mobile computer labs in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology to support 29 schools in uMkhanyakude, KZN, an area where schools often lack the infrastructure for permanent computer facilities. Working with our architectural and IT teams, we designed mobile computer consoles to bring digital learning directly to learners. The project kicked off at Madwaleni High School, aiming to boost maths and science skills through technology and teacher training.

Environmental Education Programme (EEP)

With support from the founders of TOMS Shoes and in collaboration with local nature reserves, Mpilonhle developed a programme to provide environmental education in schools. The programme took children from local schools surrounding the private nature reserves, into the reserves, helping them better appreciate the importance of environmental diversity and preservation. Mpilonhle commissioned a special, age-appropriate curriculum for the Environmental Education Programme (EEP).

Mpilonhle builds container computer labs

Mpilonhle expanded its digital learning initiative by introducing mobile computer classrooms built from shipping containers to address the ongoing lack of space and infrastructure in many rural schools.

These container labs, designed in collaboration with our architectural and IT teams, offer a faster, cost-effective alternative to permanent buildings. Fully functional and movable, they feature insulation, air circulation, and optional solar power, providing a comfortable, tech-enabled learning environment that can be assembled on site and relocated as needed

Mpilonhle receives patent for innovative computer console design

Mpilonhle’s unique computer console design became patented. The units include theft-resistant consoles, minimal energy usage, and the ability to run on solar power, while being easily networked and is used in all of the school computer classrooms that Mpilonhle supports.

COVID-19 support for the community

With the country largely shut down for a year, Mpilonhle worked closely with the Department of Health to engage in COVID-19 prevention activities, including promoting testing and immunisation. Additionally, Mpilonhle collaborated with the government to ensure that essential health services remained available in rural areas.

Mpilonhle opens satellite office in Richards Bay

As Mpilonhle expands its activities, it established an office in Richards Bay to provide better access for clients and offer a base for staff working in the area.

Mpilonhle develops programmes for the LGBTQ+ community.

With support from the Global Fund, Mpilonhle implemented programmes specifically designed to serve the LGBTQ+ community, offering outreach services that include HIV and health screenings, counselling, and linkage to care.

Support Mpilonhle to Improve the Lives of Youth and Their Communities

Even the smallest donation can make a big difference.

R400 will fund 25 HIV tests, helping young people know their HIV status and connect those who are HIV-positive to treatment.

R2,000 will cover one month of university tuition for a top-performing learner at a target school.

R4,000 will fund a social worker for one month to support young women affected by gender-based violence, and help prevent future violence through work with young men.

Donations in South Africa or the United States are fully tax-deductible. Click below to donate to Mpilonhle.

BECOME A DONOR

Join Us in Improving the Lives of Those in Need

Mpilonhle welcomes passionate volunteers of all ages who want to make an impact. Whether you’re skilled in teaching, technology, health, or simply eager to help, we’ll match your strengths with meaningful work in our communities.

By volunteering, you’ll gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and gain a first-hand understanding of the lives of young people in under-resourced areas — all while being part of something bigger.

 

Ready to make a difference? Click below to share your details and begin your volunteer journey with us!

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

MEDIA GALLERY

Testimonials

Transforming lives, one story at a time

“It’s like you were preparing me for what is to come, because I am at university, working with Computing Skills and a lot of logic too. Sitting down amongst a group of students, helping and sharing what I know made me realise just how much I was privileged to have access to the computer lab at school."
Simemukele Amahle DlaminiStudent
“Mpilonhle were a pioneer in their provision of health services – including Sexual and Reproductive Health Services – in schools. They demonstrated how such services can and should be provided without disrupting teaching and learning, as well as maintaining privacy and confidentiality.”
Faith KhumaloChief Director, Care and Support in Schools, National Department of Basic Education
"Your service was outstanding and deserves recognition. Thank you for cheering right alongside us as we in the LGBT community celebrate a new-found, long-overdue measure of equality. Your swift response and attention to detail ensured that our needs were met with professionalism and courteousness.Your team's dedication to the LGBT I community satisfaction is truly commendable, and I am exceedingly satisfied with the outcome of your work."
Melz WosthakathiMSM Gay Pride Walk
"You were very kind and patient with us, and made sure that no one was left behind. You sacrificed your time and hard work, and made sure that in whatever you do, everybody is accommodated. Learning the computing skills and studying Mathematics at the same time was not easy, but with your guidance we were able to manage and leave with knowledge that will help us in the future."
Simemukele Amahle DlaminiNhliziyo High School Alumni
"This programme (The Enivonmental Education Programme) has provided important opportunities for our learners, inluding the opportunity to visit nearby nature conservation areas to learn about the environment, and the importance of protecting the environment."
Khulani Special SchoolKhulani Special School Principal
" Nhliziyo High School can not stop thanking Mpilonhle for all the support we get from you." "One cannot count your supportive initiatives, thank you."
Ndwandwe PoppyNhliziyo High School Principal
"On behalf of the Kwambo Dirt Trackers I would like to take this avenue to thank you most sincerely for you’re wonderful contribution to one of our local primary schools Embabe."
Kwambo Dirt TrackersKwambo Dirt Trackers
"We would like to express our deepest thanks for assisting us with the Zazi Camp held by Bethesda Hospital on 17th–18th July 2015 at Sinethezekile High School. The Mpilonhle Team was exceptional and brought new meaning to the ward edu-tainment. " "This camp would have not been a success without the input and efforts of the Mpilonhle Team. "
Dr N.G. MfekaBethesda Hospital
"The Nkombose High School iwshes to thank the Mpilonhle team who came to assist and teach our learners about health issues. They have been of great help and we wish and hope they will come back again. We strongly believe that all you discovered will bring new hope to our learners and make a difference. The manner in which you conducted the entire process was wonderful and we appreciated every minute with you."
Ngubane P.NNkombose High School Principal
"With these mobile units I have achieved wonderful knowledge and as well as physical support. I wish Mpilonhle that spread the program to more schools to help learners achieve their goal in a happy way. My life will never be the same again."
Thandeka Susan DlaminiNkosana High School Student
Sometimes learners underperform because they do not have motivation to go forward in life due to lack of programmes that develops within them hope to go beyond their current circumstances. As the school we’re delighted and happy that Mpilonhle came with such a project at the right time where these kids need a more of drive to do well in their exams.”
Mr XuluNkosana High School Principal
"What impressed me most was that one of the kids that I had counselled came back to me when the Mpilonhle unit went back to the school. The child previously tested positive but was in denial, but after receiving counselling from me she accepted the situation and was very happy and reported that she will go to the clinic every after six months for the CD4 test and she also mentioned that without Mpilonhle on her side she wouldn’t have known what to do. It is also impressive that community members and Izinduna’s are always requesting Mpilonhle services to come to their areas. "
Nomathemba Gumede
"We were overwhelmed with joy when we saw our community people serviced by Mpilonhle. As a community, we can assure you that words are inadequate to express our gratitude to you for the service will done and professionally executed."
M.W KhumaloWard Councillor, Umkhanyakude District Council
" Through these wonderful services, your organisation has unleashed the school's potential to reach new frontiers and to serve the community with pride as a centre of active learning which Mpilonhle helped us to become."
T.E NtombelaMbongeni High School Principal
"The service conductors have been incredible, they are knowledgable, skillful, kind, sympathetic and they have always been supportive at all times, and this has been noticed even by community leaders who have been part of the project, Mr Mhcwango M.B. and Mr Mnomiya G.M. Who have been left speechless. We would therefore love to wrok with Mpilonhle in future."
J.T Gcwensa Principal of Mgangatho Primary School
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Sanele Bukhosini
HRV Ambassador - Programme Staff

Sanele Bukhosini is a warm and compassionate individual, serving as a Human Rights Ambassador and HIV Testing Counsellor. She is deeply committed to supporting others in navigating their health and life challenges, offering guidance and care to those on their journey toward healing and growth.

Outside of her professional work, Sanele enjoys spending quality time with her family. As a passionate fashion designer, she can often be found sewing and designing, expressing her creativity through her craft.

Philile Jabulisiwe Sibiya
Social Auxiliary Worker- Programme Staff

Philile Jabulisiwe Sibiya is employed as a Social Auxiliary Worker under the MSM program, while also working with cases related to human rights violations and gender-based violence (GBV).

She provides psychosocial support to clients and their families, offering information and assistance with reporting cases that require legal attention. Philile also prepares clients for court appearances.

In addition to direct support, Philile equips her clients with various skills to help them sustain themselves in the long term. She organizes support groups, adherence clubs, and community dialogues to spread awareness about human rights violations and GBV.

When cases are beyond her capacity, Philile refers clients to relevant stakeholders, maintaining strong working relationships with organisations in the King Cetshwayo area.

Nothando Ndabandaba
Peer Educator- Programme Staff

Nothando Ndabandaba, born at Hlabisa Hospital and residing in the Shikishela area. Nothando completed her foundation and higher education at Shikishela and Nkosana High Schools. She holds a Diploma in Teaching Grade R from SANTS University and is currently pursuing her degree.

Nothando began her professional journey in 2013, working at the Mpilonhle Organisation as a Science and Maths Coach Skills Mentor, a role she held until 2017. During this period, she was responsible for guiding and mentoring maths coaches, as well as working in a computer lab. Her duties also involved training learners in basic computer skills and the rules of the program, and she was based in the Umkhanyakude district.

From late 2017 to March 2019, Nothando worked as a Health and Technology Services (HTS) Counsellor for the Interacted Mobile Unit, where she provided health education to youth aged 10 to 24. Her responsibilities included screening clients for TB and STIs, offering pre- and post-test counselling, and capturing client data in the King Cetshwayo District. In July 2020, Nothando transitioned to a role as a Data Capturer, involved in pre-screening for COVID-19 tests, where she worked until January 2021. Since 2023, Nothando has been serving as a Peer Educator under the MSM (Men who have Sex with Men) project. In this capacity, she offers face-to-face counselling, mobilizes MSM and other men to access healthcare services, and provides information on sexual and reproductive health issues, as well as HIV and AIDS. Her work includes mobile clinic outreach and collaboration with health facilities to disseminate crucial health information.  Nothando’s career reflects her commitment to education, health, and empowering others within her community.

Zandile Sithole
Peer Educator- Programme Staff

Born and raised  in Mtubatuba, Zandile Sithole is a passionate, outspoken, gregarious and driven individual who loves jogging, soccer and cooking. She is a mother of two handsome boys, one of whom is  in his second year at Durban University of Technology and other one is in Grade 12. She is a highly experienced HIV/AIDS Lay Counsellor with over 10 years of experience in pre-counselling and post counselling in HIV testing. Zandile recently took a refresher course because she likes to stay up to date, especially with her career as a Lay Counsellor. Serving her religion and community as a volunteer has always captivated her. She firmly thinks that helping others is a virtue.

Avile Vundla
HRV Ambassador- Programme Staff

Avile Vundla serves as an HRV Ambassador at Mpilonhle Organization, where her role involves documenting cases referred to Social Workers. She is 33 years old and resides in the Ndlangubo area. Avile is a proud mother of two boys and has sadly lost both of her parents.

Avile joined Mpilonhle in 2024. She completed her matric in 2012 and later pursued an ABET certificate through UNISA. She also obtained a certificate in HIV and AIDS and ART treatment from Indlela Yempilo Academy.

Avile enjoys traditional food and Maskandi music. She has a strong passion for gaining new knowledge from others and is known for her respectful nature.

Thobisile (Manu) Mthethwa
Linkage-to-Care Officer - Programme Staff

Thobisile Mthethwa is a 32-year-old who was born in Oshwashweni but raised in Cinci Reserve.  She describes herself as a young vibrant energetic and loving individual. She is well known amongst her peers as “Manu” which is a nickname given to her by her mother meaning little one.

Thobisile Mthethwa started working for Mpilonhle in 2017 as a Teen Parenting Facilitator she is now a Linkage Officer, where she is responsible for supporting the HIV and TB by linking and navigating patient through referral processes and ensuring linkage to care. Daily activities also include conducting tracing of clients who have missed their appointments or defaulted from care, ensuring adherence to DOH policies, guidelines and SOPs.

Manu enjoys spending time with her two daughters. She is currently enrolled at the University of South Africa for Bachelor of Accounting and Science.

Zama Mpanza
Peer Educator - Programme Staff

Zama Sarah Mpanza, born in Johannesburg and raised Ehlalankosi kwaNongoma, who studied a Bachelor of Commerce with specialities of (Economics and Banking Management) at the University of Zululand kwaDlangezwa located near Empangeni. A very outspoken individual who thrives given any tasks.

Given an opportunity by the Mpilonhle Organization she was very much pleased for her first time employment after completing her studies. In her role as Peer Educator, Zama help prevent HIV/AIDS by sharing information, about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) services at the University of Zululand and at the local clinic kwaDlangezwa and encouraging healthy behaviours.

She also help people understand how to reduce their risk of HIV/AIDS. Some of the challenges she faces on her day to day are maintaining focus as she needs to keep a rapo with every patient she’s proving help, addressing knowledge gaps, and ensuring equal participation can arise. Despite these hurdles, harnessing the potential of peer-to-peer learning can significantly enrich training dynamics and foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Thabile Linda
HRV Ambassador - Programme Staff

Thabile Linda is from Esikhawini (Port-Darnford). She comes from a loving and supportive family of seven, where they have always made lasting memories together.

Before pursuing her current path, Thabile studied Beauty Therapy. Initially, it wasn’t something she felt passionate about, but as she continued to learn, she found herself enjoying it more and more.

In her free time, Thabile enjoys cooking and shopping. Her favourite music genre is Gospel.

Thabile Linda is from Esikhawini (Port-Darnford). She comes from a loving and supportive family of seven, where they have always made lasting memories together.

Before pursuing her current path, Thabile studied Beauty Therapy. Initially, it wasn’t something she felt passionate about, but as she continued to learn, she found herself enjoying it more and more.

In her free time, Thabile enjoys cooking and shopping. Her favourite music genre is Gospel.

Nomfundo Majola
Enrolled Nurse - Programme Staff

Nomfundo Majola is a registered Enrolled Nurse and has been in the healthcare industry for 4 years. Her job includes monitoring  patient’s treatment , devising care plans  and providing medical care during emergencies.  She believes that every single life matters , so she ensures that every day she handles her job with great careful attention.

She had her Bachelor of nursing from Indumiso college.

When she’s not taking care of parents she goes rappelling and tries extreme sports. She uses her passion in sport in making her body healthy-like hitting two birds with one stone. She has also volunteered in many medical missions ever since she was a nursing student until now.

Lwandile Ngema
Peer Educator - Programme Staff

Lwandille works at Mpilonhle Organization as a passionate Peer Educator, HIV Counsellor and Tester, and Ambassador for the LGBTQI+ community, specifically advocating for the rights and health of Men Having Sex with Men (MSM), She dedicate her work to empowering individuals and communities to live their truths boldly and healthily.

With expertise in HIV/AIDS education, counselling, and testing, She provide inclusive, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive support to marginalized populations. Her mission is to bridge the gap in healthcare access, reduce stigma, and promote awareness about the importance of HIV testing, treatment, and prevention. As an ambassador, she amplifies the voices and experiences of MSM and LGBTQI+ individuals, advocating for their rights, dignity, and well-being.  She strives to create safe spaces for open dialogue, foster inclusivity, and promote healthy behaviours.

Lwandile joined Mpilonhle in 2024 as a Peer Educator. She completed her matric in 2017. She pursued Road Traffic Management studies in Mangaung Traffic Training College and graduated in 2019 as a Traffic Officer.  She intensified excitement in studying about HIV/AIDS and TB and obtained HIV/AIDS and TB Counselling certificates. 

She is now working together with MPILONHLE to build more informed, supportive and compassionate community that values diversity, equity and inclusivity.

Nomathemba Myeni
HTS Counsellor - Programme Staff

Nomathemba Myeni was born in KwaMsane Township, where she completed both her foundation and higher education. She later attended SANTS University to pursue a teaching degree. Nomathemba also completed a 10-day HIV/AIDS Counselling and Adherence Support Program at Unkulunkulu Unathi AIDS Project.

Since 2010, Nomathemba has been working at Mpilonhle Organization as an HTS Counsellor. In her role, she educates people about various health issues such as HIV, TB, and STIs. She provides services including pre- and post-counselling, HIV testing, and referrals to different clinics. She also screens for TB and STIs. Nomathemba takes great pride in the work being done in the uMkhanyakude and King Cetshwayo districts by Mpilonhle Organisation.

Sihle Malinga
Peer Educator - Programme Staff

Sihle Malinga is a dedicated Peer Educator at the Mpilonhle Organization. Trained to provide health and wellness education, Sihle offers support to peers on a variety of topics, including sexual health, STI check-ups, administering PrEP to MSM (Men who have Sex with Men), and distributing condoms and lubricants. Additionally, Sihle addresses the stigma surrounding sexual health within the community.

Sihle strongly believes that encouraging MSM individuals to get tested for HIV and providing them with PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Through this program, Sihle has gained valuable work experience and developed a deep understanding of how to treat MSM individuals with respect and dignity, all while fostering strong partnerships with colleagues to further the program’s goals.

Zinhle Radebe
Peer Educator - Programme Staff

Zinhle Philisiwe Radebe, born on July 14, 1987, in KwesakaMthethwa Ward 15, completed her foundational education at Oshwashweni Primary School and her secondary education at Welabasha High School, where she completed her grade 12 in 2006. In 2018, Zinhle pursued further studies in counselling at the KwaZulu-Natal Experimental College and also completed a First Aid course at Indlela Yempilo.

Zinhle began her career as a Lay Counsellor at the Gays and Lesbian Community and Health Centre, where she worked for approximately five years. She is currently employed at the Mpilonhle Organization as a Peer Educator, where she provides health education to her clients, with a specific focus on the MSM (Men who have Sex with Men) community.

In her role, Zinhle ensures that clients receive comprehensive support, including quality health education. Her duties include:

  • Screening for TB  – Conducting HIV testing – Referring clients to appropriate services – Offering face-to-face counselling – Ensuring clients return to care as needed – Mobilizing and encouraging more individuals from the MSM community to engage with health services

Zinhle is currently based in Empangeni, at No. 12 Panorama Bardenhorst Street, and works at Empangeni Clinic.

Nomkhosi Mkhize
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Nomkhosi Mkhize is an enthusiastic goal-driven and dedicated young lady. She is dedicated to her work. She is the most devoted, diligent young woman who come from a rural background.

She completed her National Senior Certificate (NSC) at Masibonisane High School in Mfekayi has obtained her Diploma in Marketing at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) in the year 2019. 

In 2023 she then started working for Mpilonhle Organization within the Computer Based program in collaboration with Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) which is a grant focused on assisting in Mathematics and helping the learners in rural schools. Where she is working passionate and the learners love attending classes in her lab which is in Nhliziyo High School.

She secures experience through practical exposure to a task. This role encourage help sharpen their technical skills and developed their understanding of how technology. This position groomed Nomkhosi Mkhize.

Fikile Mbatha
Social Worker - Programme Staff

Fikile Mbatha born and raised in Ulundi.  I can describe myself as an introvert. I prefer spending time alone or with a small group of people. I am reserved and thoughtful. Sometimes I feel drained after social interactions.

Her role as a social worker is to provide psychosocial care and support to individuals, couples and families who are experiencing Gender Based Violence. Conduct training, dialogues and awareness campaigns to the community.

Challenges that she comes across in her line of work is working with vulnerable people, high workload and burnout.
For her, it is important to listen and support people, empowering them to improve their lives and also protect people from harm when it is necessary.

Celimpilo Ntombela
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Celimpilo Samkelisiwe Ntombela is an over enthusiastic, goal-driven and pro-active young lady. She is dedicated to her work and always meets and exceeds the targets set for her. She works well within a team and always uplifts the team spirit.

She has qualifications in different variety of fields, she initially obtained an Adult Basic Education (ABET 2015) at UNISA, then an Introduction to SAMTRAC (2014), SAMTRAC (2017) and Incident Investigation (2018) at NOSA Richards Bay. She thereafter obtained her Advanced Computer Literacy Certificate at Avuxeni Computer Academy.

She has previously worked at Standard Bank for 6 years where she has elevated her computer skills and knowledge of software programs, and technical system within the bank. She then started working for Mpilonhle Organization within the Computer Based program in collaboration with Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) which is a grant focused on assisting in Mathematics and helping the learners in rural schools. Where she is working passionate and the learners love attending classes in her lab which is based in Nhliziyo High School.

She will continue to balance her interests in teaching and her love of technology with her variety of skill-sets and commitment to continuous learning to upskill herself. 

Nothando Msweli
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Nothando Minenhle Msweli, born in 1989 in Richards Bay, is a dedicated DSI Coach at Mpilonhle. She earned a Diploma in Public Management from the University of Mangosuthu. Raised in a creative and supportive family, she relocated to Mtubatuba due to work and marriage.

Over the years, Nothando has been driven by a strong desire to make a meaningful impact and share her knowledge with her community. Her passion for working with children, particularly in the areas of computer literacy, mathematics, and science, led her to start her career as an Education Assistant (EA). In this role, she assisted children with typing, printing, and various educational tasks. She later advanced to become a coach at Mpilonhle, where she helped children practice math, develop typing skills, and explore the internet to research school-related topics and enhance their learning through reading.

Today, Nothando is making a significant difference by addressing global issues through the program she is involved in. She believes this initiative is a life-changing experience for the children, especially in rural areas. As the world continues to evolve, she is committed to helping these communities adapt and gain knowledge in technology, recognizing that everything in the modern world relies on electronic devices. Nothando is confident that the impact of this program can extend far beyond local areas, with the potential to grow into something much larger.

Ntombifuthi Mkhize
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Ntombifuthi is a dedicated and passionate professional with a strong background in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and education. After completing her studies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), where she obtained a Diploma in ICT, Ntombifuthi embarked on a career that blends both technology and teaching.

At DUT, Ntombifuthi developed a comprehensive understanding of ICT systems, and software, This academic foundation led to an internship in IT Support at Mpilonhle Organisation, where gained hands-on experience in troubleshooting, system maintenance, and customer service within the IT field. This role helped sharpen her technical skills and deepened their understanding of how technology can optimize business operations and improve user experience.

In addition to their technical expertise, Ntombifuthi has also demonstrated a strong commitment to education. She took on a 2-year contract as a Math Assistant Coach at Uphaphazi Primary School in collaboration with Mpilonhle Organisation where she worked closely with Leaners to reinforce her understanding of mathematical concepts and provided personalized support in both individual and group settings. This position allowed Ntombifuthi to develop her coaching and mentorship skills, while also fostering a passion for helping others achieve academic success.

Today, Ntombifuthi continues to balance their interests in both technology and education, With a diverse skill set and a dedication to continuous learning.

Ntombiyenkosi Mkhwanazi
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Ntombiyenkosi Mkhwanazi serves as DSI Lab Coach at Mpilonhle Organisation in Department of science and innovation, the computer based learning programme which provides access to computer-assisted learning in rural schools of disadvantaged communities. Where she facilitates lab usage and maintenance, fostering good relationship with educators and school management, provides offline Educational content to the program, ensure that the programme runs smoothly in schools and ensuring the security of access

Ntombiyenkosi was born in 13 July 1996, South Africa, Kwazulu-Natal (Empangeni). Her family is originated from Mtubatuba where she relocated to in 2021. She was raised by her mother, and has a well cultivated character. Completed her matric in 2015 At Masakhane High School, and holds an Information Technology and computer science from Umfolozi TVET College.

She’s a writer and poem reciter, goes by the stage name “Noxie Umvini Wabezizwe ”.  In 2020, she was granted the opportunity of a life time to write poem in honour of legendary Prof Otty Nxumalo during a broadcast hosted by the late Ukhozi FM presenter and award winning poet, Bongani Mavuso. In early 2021 she volunteered in an online radio as Radio Technician and presenter which was located in Pinetown.

From November 2021 she served as Educator Assistant at Masibonisane High School, continued this role until 2022 and joined Mpilonhle in 2023. She believes that Action is the foundation of success, you better run slowly than keep standing.  

Njabulo Thabede
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Thabede Njabulo is a young and adventurous individual who was raised in the rural area of Mtubatuba, specifically in the Mfekayi reserve under ward 21 of the Mtubatuba Municipality, alongside his cherished family.

He enjoys reading books independently and is employed by a company named Mpilohnhle. He holds a teaching degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and possesses four years of experience as a Lab Coach. His upbringing and family background have imparted valuable lessons to him. He considers himself primarily an introvert, though he can exhibit extroverted traits on occasion. A passionate football/soccer enthusiast, he also engages in volleyball as a hobby, excelling in it as well. He has a fondness for South African house music and classic South African tunes. He is characterized by his respectfulness, humility, self-motivation, traditional beliefs, ambition, career focus, creativity, innovation, and a strong willingness to embrace responsibilities. His open-mindedness and friendly demeanour facilitate effective communication with others.

Lindi Mkhwanazi
DSI Coach - Programme Staff

Lindi Mkwanazi, born in 1994, is deeply passionate about education and community development. She resides in the rural area of Gunjaneni (Nsolweni), where she dedicates her time to uplifting young people and their communities. Lindi is happily married and a proud parent to three beautiful children, who serve as her greatest motivation and source of joy.

Currently in her final year of pursuing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree at the University of South Africa (Unisa), Lindi’s academic journey reflects her commitment to both personal and professional growth.

From 2016 , Lindi has been working at Mpilonhle, an organisation focused on improving the well-being of communities. This experience enriched her skills in community engagement and strengthened her dedication to helping others. Additionally, she works as a coach in three schools—Khulubone Primary School, Nhliziyo High School, and UPhaphazi Primary School—where her role often requires relocation, further enhancing her adaptability and resilience.

As she continues on this path, Lindi strives to use her knowledge and experience to inspire learners and contribute to the development of vibrant and empowered communities.