The Team

Columba Team
Board of Trustees

EXCO

Tracy Hackland CEO Tracy has extensive experience in development work with a particular focus on children and youth made vulnerable as a result of social circumstances. She has a Master’s in Development Studies and a Post-Graduate Degree in Psychology. Tracy joined Columba Leadership on February 01, 2012.

Donna McCartney Human Resources Manager Donna holds a Diploma in Human Resources Management. She specialized in people development and has extensive corporate experience. She entered the Non-Profit Sector in 2008 to focus on the development of youth in South Africa. Donna joined Columba Leadership on April 18, 2018

Melissa Chetty M&E and Special Projects Manager Melissa is a detail orientated and solutions driven individual who values integrity. She has 15 years’ experience in the NGO sector, with a special focus on Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting. Previously Melissa worked for 6 years in the health and research environment at McCord Hospital. She spent 9 years in the orphaned and vulnerable children sector at Starfish Great Hearts Foundation. Melissa holds a BSc in Biomedical Science (UKZN) and a Post Graduate Diploma in M&E (Stellenbosch). She joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of January 2021.

Monique Blignaut National Programmes Manager Monique obtained her postgraduate degree in Psychology at the University of the Western Cape. Her experience includes working at a youth substance abuse centre as well as a police trauma centre. She is passionate about people reaching their full potential while thriving in line with their natural strengths. She is committed to youth work and young people living their best lives. She believes in the power of human connection and sees relationship building, with all stakeholders in the education and employment sectors, as a vital part of developing the youth. Monique joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of February 2015.

Surprise Mngomezulu National Operations Manager Surprise has more than 10 years’ experience in management in different sectors, including the male-dominated construction industry where she started her own company. The job demands in the industry assisted her in developing interpersonal skills and challenged her to excel beyond expectations. Surprise joined the training and development sector in 2012, to align with her purpose and desire to change people’s lives. She continues to empower and impact the lives of women and young people within and outside of Columba Leadership. Her areas of experience include business management, operations and marketing management and business development.

Central Team

Innocent Muyanga DBE Partnership & Programme Implementation Support Manager Innocent has over ten years’ experience working with communities and young people in South Africa. He has studied HIV/AIDS Intervention Strategies as well as Monitoring and Evaluation Methods at the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health in the United States. Innocent joined Columba Leadership on July 12, 2010.

Kelebogile Ngati Junior Finance Administrator Kelebogile Ngati is a Business Accounting Graduate from Rosebank College. She is driven by her interest in numbers and business. Equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the world of finance she aspires to make her mark in the field of audit. Kelebogile joined Columba Leadership on March 4, 2024.

Laura Carvalho Fund Development Officer Laura holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science and Humanities from the University of Cape Town. She has 15 years’ experience working in the NPO Sector and has been involved in a variety of programmes and projects that focus on gender-based violence, urban settlement issues and the youth. Laura joined the Columba Leadership Fund Development Team at the beginning of June 2022.

Lebo Moloi IT Administrator Lebo is a graduate of the Columba Leadership Programme. He has studied as a Service Technician and a Network Administrator at PC Training and Business College. Lebo is currently studying Security Analytics Specialist at Boston City Campus. During his spare time he performs at theatres. Lebo joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of May 2017.

Natalie Daniels Special Projects Lead Natalie has a drive to engage with young people. She has a passion for empowering young people mainly through personal life encounters. She has more than 15 years’ youth development experience. Natalie joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of January 2016.

Nhlanhla Nkgapele Data Capturer Nhlanhla holds a BA in Public Management & Governance from the University of Johannesburg as well as Certificates in Outcomes-based Monitoring and Evaluation and Project Management from the University of Pretoria. During 2022 he completed a Certificate in Data Analysis at the University of Cape Town. Nhlanhla joined the Monitoring & Evaluation Team at the beginning of March.

Nomathemba Mnguni Human Resources Officer Nomathemba has a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources and Economics from the University of the Free State. She has extensive human resources experience in the Hospitality, Gaming and Entertainment Sector. She is passionate about youth and people development. Nomathemba joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of October 2022.

Sibongile Sibiya Alumni Bridging & Programme Support Sibongile is a first-year Law Student and aspiring Youth Life Coach. She is a Graduate of Columba Leadership having joined from Grade 9. She matriculated at the end of 2021. She completed a 12-month Internship Programme in High School as a Social Action Facilitator and this is where she found her passion for youth development. Sibongile joined the Alumni Bridging Department in September 2023. Here she helps the Columba Leadership Alumni with opportunities to upskill and prepare themselves for the world of work.

Sylvia Gabriel Bookkeeper Sylvia obtained her Technical Financial Accounting Diploma through the ICB in 2013. She has extensive Bookkeeping and Payroll experience which she has gained working in different sectors from the architectural space to manufacturing and recruitment. She has been wanting to use her skills to impact the lives of others in a meaningful way and has discovered her passion for the NGO / NPO sector. Sylvia joined Columba at the end of August 2024 and is excited to embark on this amazing journey with Columba Leadership.

Themba Nkutha National Academy & Programme Development Manager Themba was exposed to youth work in 1999 through life skills programmes. He has a heart and passion for young people especially for those who are from disadvantaged backgrounds. He strongly believes in developing youth potential and is a competent facilitator. Themba joined Columba Leadership on March 03, 2014.

Thembelihle Ndlovu M&E Assistant Thembelihle graduated from Rosebank College in 2012 with a Diploma in Programming. She has experience in data capturing and administrative work. She is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the data at Columba, which is the backbone of M&E. Thembelihle joined Columba Leadership on March 01, 2015.

Werner De Witt Residency Manager Werner completed his studies in Conference, Exhibition and Events Management in 2011. In 2013 he joined the Red Cap Ranch as the Events Manager. In 2014 he was promoted to General Manager. Werner has a passion for the hospitality industry and all that it entails. In January 2023 he commenced his studies towards an N4 Qualification in Catering and Hospitality Management through Oxbridge Academy. He is a strong individual with a great sense of humour who believes that there is good in everyone. Werner joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of June 2023.

Gauteng Team

Noluthando Khaile Provincial Manager Noluthando holds qualifications in Social Work, Psychology and Project Management. She has been working in the children and youth sector, for local and international organisations, for more than 20 years. She started her career as a Social Worker and has held various programme management positions. Noluthando is passionate about seeing young people thrive, gain confidence and resilience in order to pursue and achieve their goals. She joined Columba Leadership in January 2023.

Lungiswa Mtiywa School Engagement Officer Lungiswa is a Social Worker by profession, having obtained her Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Johannesburg. She is passionate about working with children and young people and particularly those with disabilities. She believes that all children and young people should equally have opportunities to participate in the country’s economy. Lungiswa joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of October 2022.

Mankae Lesenyeho School Engagement Officer Mankae holds a BA Degree in Behavioural Sciences as well as a BA Honours in Medical Sociology. She has 9 years’ experience working with young people in various high schools as a Mentor, a Coach and a Counsellor. She is passionate about helping young people to reach their dreams in order to bring change to different communities. Mankae joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of January 2022.

Mpho Mahlaba PAL Gauteng Mpho has more than seven years experience in the NGO sector, primarily in Enterprise Development. Her skills lie in Office Administration, Operations and Business Development. She is a strong believer in the power of a positive attitude and building sustainable relationships. She enjoys working with talented and passionate young people. Mpho joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of March 2024.

Nkosinathi Manana School Engagement Officer Nkosinathi has over seven years’ experience as a Facilitator and a Schools Progress Manager. His passion is youth development, through skills development. Nkosinathi joined Columba Leadership on July 01, 2016.

Sibusiso Msibi Faculty Sibusiso is an ordained Pastor who has 13 years’ experience in Facilitation. He is passionate about developing young people into future leaders. Some of his other skills and interests include: teaching, public speaking and music. Sibusiso was a Faculty Freelancer for Columba Leadership for approximately two years before joining the Gauteng Province Team at the beginning of March 2023.

Eastern Cape Team

Asanda Njobe Provincial Manager Asanda has been involved in community work since 2012 working for the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University within their Community Development Unit, where she did a B-tech in Public Relations. She is passionate about interacting, at all levels, within the school environment, this includes principals, educators and learners. Asanda joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of May 2015.

Hlonelikhaya Klaas School Engagement Officer Hlonelikhaya is a Columba Graduate having graduated in 2011. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing his Honours. He has extensive experience in coordinating outreach programmes through volunteering at different organisations and working with Youth Groups. He has a passion for Leadership and Personal Development which has led to him doing speaking and training facilitation within that space. Some of Hlonelikhaya’s strengths include facilitation of strategic planning and community development programmes using a people-centred approach. Hlonelikhaya joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of October 2023.

Jenni-Lee Flannery Admin & Logistics Team Leader Jenni-Lee is part of the logistics team assisting with admin and logistics and facilitation. She has gained extensive facilitation and administrative experience. She is passionate about working with young people, by mentoring and supporting them. Jenni-Lee joined Columba Leadership on March 02, 2015.

Siphe Mntonintshi Faculty Siphe holds a Postgraduate Degree in Psychology from the Nelson Mandela University. She has 5 years’ experience in the NGO sector where she has facilitated and coordinated programmes specifically working with unemployed youth. Siphe has also worked on gender-based violence prevention programmes. She is passionate about community and youth work and believes in inspiring others to realise their full potential. Siphe joined Columba Leadership on May 03, 2022.

Free State Team

Lineo Moso Faculty Lineo Moso holds a Postgraduate Degree in Education from the University of South Africa. She has 10 years’ experience in the NGO sector having started as a Youth Worker mentoring young people. Lineo has also worked as an Assistant Teacher in the private sector. She is passionate about serving the community and helping young people succeed. Lineo has been associated with Columba Leadership for many years having re-joined during May 2022.

Moses Kanengoni School Engagement Officer Moses holds a Bachelor of Education Degree as well as an Advanced Diploma in Education. He has extensive experience in the Education Sector. His passion is to inspire learners to unleash their potential, thus impacting those around them. Moses joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of January 2017.

Mpiki Tsoaeli School Engagement Officer Mpiki obtained her Bachelor of Psychology at Eduvos in 2014 and has been working in the non-profit sector for approximately 7 years. She has extensive experience working with young people in education and health, where her key roles involved empowering and equipping vulnerable groups with skills that enable them to thrive despite their circumstances, ultimately reaching a level of self-actualisation. She is currently completing her Masters in Research-based Psychology at the University of the Free State and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at Varsity College. Mpiki joined Columba Leadership in July 2024.

KZN Team

Lucky Mchunu Provincial Manager Lucky completed a Business Management Certificate with the University of KZN. He spent time serving the youth as a care worker and has been involved in psychosocial support, as well as stress and trauma training. Lucky joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of April 2014.

Siboniso Ntombela Faculty Siboniso is a passionate Youth Development Practitioner with over ten years’ experience in working with young people. He is passionate about making a positive impact on young people’s lives. Siboniso is driven by a set of values and ethics derived from his upbringing and experience as a young person. He is a great believer in human potential and the power of meaningful person-to-person development. His values are: People, Purpose and Courage. Siboniso was previously employed by Columba Leadership and re-joined in April 2022.

Wanda Mhlongo School Engagement Officer Wanda obtained a National Diploma in Child and Youth Development from the Durban University of Technology. She has extensive experience and expertise in youth development. Her passion is the facilitation of youth leadership programmes. Wanda joined Columba Leadership on April 01, 2019.

Zuri Mkhwanazi School Engagement Officer Zuri has a passion to mentor, coach, teach and grow youth. He has worked in facilitation for many years and understands the need to create environments and platforms to actively engage young people. Zuri joined Columba Leadership in November 2016.

Western Cape Team

Zandile Siwali Provincial Manager Zandi holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial Psychology and Information Systems. She has a great passion for development and empowering young people. She believes that communities can be best served through ethical leadership and strong organisational structures where the shared vision is clear. She has over 20 years’ experience working in the non-profit sector that is rooted in a commitment to transformative change. Zandi joined Columba Leadership at the beginning of June 2024.

Chloe Jonkers Admin & Logistics Chloe Jonkers is a Columba Leadership graduate who matriculated at the end of 2020. She has taken part in numerous social action activities at both her school and her church group. She loves spending time with young people and is passionate about making a difference in their lives. Chloe says: "When I see the impact I have on young people, it assists with my personal growth and development as an adolescent myself." Chloe participated in the 12-month Work Readiness Programme and worked as an Alumni Tracker for Columba Leadership. She was appointed Admin and Logistics on May 01, 2022.

Claire Daniels School Engagement Officer Claire obtained her BA Honours Degree in Social Development Studies from the University of the Western Cape. She also obtained an NPO Certificate from the University of Stellenbosch - Business School, as well as a Principals of Programmes Evaluation Certificate. Claire’s passion is engaging Principals, Educators and learners focussing on youth development. She joined Columba Leadership during January 2019.

Duduzile Jula School Engagement Officer Duduzile holds an Honours Degree in Psychology and has significant experience working in the educational and psychological services space. She is passionate about community development and positively impacting the youth. Duduzile joined Columba Leadership during July 2022.

Tracy Hackland (CEO) Tracy has extensive experience in development work with a particular focus on children and youth made vulnerable as a result of social circumstances. She has a Master’s in Development Studies and a Post-Graduate Degree in Psychology.

Jennisha Gappoo Jennisha has extensive private and social sector experience, and is currently leading operations at the Solidarity Fund. Her private sector experience spans over 20 years and was largely focused on complex programme management, target operating model design and strategy in financial services. Jennisha’s last corporate role was to lead the platform build of Discovery Bank, with previous work at RMB, Nedbank and Unilever. Jennisha has also actively participated in the social sector and was a founding trustee of the non-profit SALICT, and spent recent years volunteering her services at schools in Alexandra and assisting with fundraising activities. Jennisha holds a BSC Chemical Engineering Degree from UKZN and an MBA from Wits Business School.

Sarah Rennie Sarah is an expert in philanthropy and corporate social investment with a special interest in education. She is the Chair of the Independent Philanthropy Association South Africa(IPASA), Chair of the Grindrod Family Centenary Trust, non-executive director of theStandard Bank Tutuwa Community Foundation, trustee of Liberty Community Trust and theAnglo American Namibia Foundation. Having practiced law in London for many years, on her return to South Africa, Sarah worked at Tshikululu Social Investments as COO. She now lives in Johannesburg with her husband and young twins.

Ntombizamasala Hlophe Ntombizamasala is the Strategy Director for Yellowwood Future Architects with extensive brand management experience. She has 12 years’ experience in marketing and has worked across Africa in some of the most formidable FMCG companies; Unilever, SAB and Yum Restaurants. Zama is a graduate from Rhodes University and the University of Cape Town; with qualifications in B.A Journalism and English; and PGDip Project Management respectively.Prior to joining Yellowwood, her focus was on driving KFC’s business development and, more recently, managing Castle Lager’s marketing and communication across Africa. Zama enjoys working within developing markets, industries and categories and is an ardent believer in the power of purposeful action in bringing to life growth strategies for brands and businesses.

Chris van Melle Kamp Chris van Melle Kamp is the founder and CEO of Future Purpose, a company which he established after having worked in the leadership and talent space for more than 20 years. His focus today is on working with CEOs and their top teams, in developing deep insights into strategic talent alignment, strategic capability, career development and succession planning, collaboration and culture alignment. His experience covers a wide range of industries and functional leadership roles having placed hundreds of executives in multiple markets. His interest in all aspects of leadership, strategic negotiations and executive decision making was developed during his diplomatic career which lasted 18 years (1980 – 1998) and during which time he represented South Africa in numerous capacities which included five years in New York at the SA Mission to the United Nations, four years working on developing relations with Central Europe and Russia and five years in Paris where he was Counsellor and then Deputy Ambassador to France. He is Chairman of the Natures Valley Trust which is an NGO dedicated to conservation and conservation education for local communities, marine science, and biodiversity research in the Tsitsikamma National Park and the adjacent coastal region of the Western Cape.

Graham Lurie(Acting Chairman) Graham is a financial generalist and analyst with extensive experience at board level and financial management, risk management, management accounting, and in leading and directing IT and MIS functions. He has experience in the manufacturing, distribution and financial services sectors, having had full responsibility for their entire financial functions. He has lived and worked in the UK, and sub-Sahara countries

Tinyiko Bvuma Tinyiko Bvuma is a deputy Principal at Ahmed Timol Secondary School in Gauteng. Ms Bvuma is a passionate educator who specializes in Life Science and has earned the title of Chief Marker for Life Sciences paper 1 in the Gauteng Province. Through this position she is able to influence the young educators in the Province by nurturing, supporting and grooming them to become even better professionals in the near future. She is passionate about helping people in need and thus often runs fund raising events to help the less fortunate in her community. Ms Bvuma is able to identify true leaders at their tender professional stage and creates a strategic plan to execute growth and maturity. She is currently working on the I Africa School project which exposes learners to the 4th Industrial Revolution and brings solutions and opportunities to the school. She is also, successfully, spearheading the Columba Leadership programme at her school.

Dr Bongi Matiwaza Bongi is a Biological Scientist turned Financial Services/Corporate Executive turned Entrepreneur. She’s a published author of science papers and book chapters, having worked in the field of immunology, both locally (University of Cape Town- UCT) and in the UK (Astra Zeneca Pharmaceuticals and University of Oxford). She has extensive experience in Banking, working in roles such as Programme Management (implementing Business Turnaround Programmes, New Product Launches, and IT projects/programmes) and Executive Management (Private Banking and Business Banking Client Value Management). Her passion is in seeing SA Inc., and the greater African continent succeed, and to this end, has founded Zinnate Consulting, which assists public, health, and non-profit sector organisations to achieve their strategic goals, and uses the proprietary SDQAT (Service Delivery Quality Assessment Tool) to guide local government municipalities on management best practices required to ensure comprehensive and quality service delivery. She is the founder of Zinnate Biomedicals which utilises innate/inborn mechanisms to develop biomedical solutions - one of which is the AquaLoc4cee product range. Bongi holds a PhD in Microbial Genetics from UCT and an MBA from Henley Business School (University of Reading).