OUR FOUNDERS
ADRI SMIT
KAROO & KIE | BEAUFORT WEST, SOUTH AFRICA
A jack of all trades but master of none, that is true of Adri, who is always learning new skills. Eph 4:15-16 put a strong vision in her heart. The Lord has made every person with love and has a vital role to play in His plan. However, people do not live to their full potential because we all focus on survival and forget the Lord’s instruction to love one another and function as one body so that we can flourish. So Adri started Karoo & Kie to build a support network that would find practical ways for the rural communities of the Karoo to thrive as a loving body.
ANDISIWE PHAKATHI
FABULEUX HOUSE | PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA
Andisiwe Phakathi is a passionate entrepreneur with a background in culinary arts and pastry. Born in the beautiful Eastern Cape, Mthatha, she pursued her diploma in Centurion, where she honed her skills as a cake designer. Although retrenchment in 2020 presented a challenge, it also sparked a new opportunity. Andisiwe began selling bespoke furniture pieces on Facebook Market, and that’s when the journey as a furniture entrepreneur took off. The business is now thriving in Pretoria West, where the warehouse is based. Fabuleux House specialises in customising luxury furniture, including headboards, pedestals, TV stands, and kitchen units. But that’s not all, they also offer interior decor services and training in furniture making. She is proud to be creating unique pieces that bring joy to her clients, and is grateful for the journey that’s brought her where she is today.
ANDRE PRETORIUS
AZANIA DRIVING INSTITUTE | STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA
Raised in a missional Christian home in Carletonville, André gave his life to Jesus at age 16 while at boarding school. After matric, he joined Global Challenge, serving in 14 countries in one year and later joined further outreaches in the Middle East and Asia. His passion for discipleship led him to Stellenbosch, where he gravitated to Kayamandi township, eventually moving there to live among and disciple the community. He started a drug rehabilitation initiative before helping launch a driving school. Today, André is the Managing Director of Azania Driving Institute, stewarding a business that empowers youth while advancing God’s Kingdom.
AYANDA MNGOMEZULU
AESTHETIC DOSAGE | JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Ayanda Bonga Mngomezulu is a very ambitious law student at the University of Witwatersrand and the founder of Aesthetic Dosage, a sustainable brand based in Johannesburg. Ayanda was part of the 2024 cohort of the Anzisha Prize. Her business is known for its unique, handmade crochet pieces crafted from cotton and upcycled materials to produce ethical products. In addition, the business hosts crochet workshops that focus on empowering young people to learn more creative ways of dealing with mental health issues. Ayanda is passionate about youth entrepreneurship and believes in building businesses that create impact and empower others.
CECILE MURRAY-LOUW
IT STARTS WITH ME | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Cecile Murray-Louw is an educator, artist, and public speaker with a passion for restoring dignity in underprivileged communities. Grounded in faith as a minister of religion, she uses storytelling, drama and creative expression to challenge colonial legacies, open up conversations between privilege and marginalisation, and empower those whose voices are often overlooked. Cecile is a certified trainer of “It Starts With Me”, a programme aimed at building awareness, economic empowerment and community transformation. She is deeply interested in justice, reconciliation and the reshaping of social structures so that every person has agency, opportunity and belonging. Cecile lives in the Western Cape, and she believes small acts can spark wide ripple effects.
CHRIS VAN DER MEULEN
NAUTICAL TRADING & RESEARCH | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Chris van der Meulen is the founder of Nautical Trading and Research, a crypto-native market-making firm. His passion for finance and investments was first sparked in primary school when he became the proud holder of his first shares. Chris is a qualified CA(SA) with professional trading floor experience, having worked as a trader on Investec’s Electronic Trading desk. Chris seeks to use this knowledge and expertise to enable Nautical Trading and Research to contribute to fair and efficient markets in crypto while also serving as a faithful steward of capital.
DÉLAN KRUGER
PULSE REALTY| BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa
Delan is a purpose-driven real estate entrepreneur whose mission is to advance the Kingdom of God through bold, innovative business ventures. He leads BondSmith Home Loans, Pulse Realty, and Flipco—three companies transforming South Africa’s property sector through tech-powered strategies and market disruption. Striving for out-of-the-box thinking and collaborative leadership, Delan builds ventures that meet real needs rather than conform to industry norms. His firms have achieved top rankings in the Free State, driven by lean teams and high-impact systems. He deeply values the unique strengths and contributions of his team, believing—like the Body of Christ—that each person plays a vital role. A husband, father of two, and sports enthusiast, Delan thrives on creating what hasn’t been done—with faith, wisdom, and fearless execution.
HAMEER VANMALI
ATLAS | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Hameer Vanmali is a multidisciplinary health scientist with three science degrees in three scientific disciplines: BSc Sports Science, BSc Honours Medical Physiology, and MSc Medical Virology from Stellenbosch University. His love for various aspects of health science has led him to serve as Research & Training Coordinator for Medical Virology at Stellenbosch University, as well as to develop health science-focused smartphone and smartwatch applications. Hameer believes that with relevant and accurate data, individuals can achieve a higher quality of life. In parallel to this, Hameer aims to collaborate with local NGOs to disseminate his health science knowledge and assist existing projects.
HILLEL TLADI
ELEKTROPLUG | STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA
Hillel is Co-Founder and CEO of ElektroPlug, a consumer electronics subscription platform that democratises access to essential tech. He holds an MSc in Management and Digital Technologies from Ludwig Maximilians University and a double degree in Industrial Engineering and Global Economics from Jacobs University Bremen. Before ElektroPlug, Hillel used his Performance Marketing and Data Engineering expertise to help leading e-commerce platforms grow.
JACOMIEN MINNAAR
MIINELLA JEWELLERY DESIGN | CAPE TOWN, South Africa
Jacomien Minnaar is the founder and creative director of Miinella Jewellery Design, a South African brand shaping legacy through bespoke fine jewellery. With an MA in Visual Arts (Jewellery Design) and GIA certification, she has lectured in Gemmology and Jewellery Design while growing Miinella into a recognised brand with international reach. At the heart of Miinella is the belief that “we design your story”—capturing personal testimonies and God’s faithfulness through creativity. Passionate about entrepreneurship, collaboration, and equipping others, Jacomien leads with vision and purpose, transforming jewellery into a vehicle for impact, legacy, and Kingdom influence.
JARROD MORKEL
THE COGNATIVE DESIGN SOLUTION| CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Since becoming aware of the world of Art, Design and Architecture, perhaps even before that, Jarrod has wanted to be considered among the very best. Years later, that dream still rings true. For this reason, Jarrod has continuously worked at refining his discipline and skillset, not only in the realm of design but also in the realm of human behaviour. The notion that design and branding can be successfully carried out in isolation is untrue. As a Strategic Designer who designs for people, Jarrod thinks that it is necessary to understand the human condition. Not your typical creative mind, Jarrod thinks deeply, dreams effortlessly, and problem-solves furiously.
JOHN DEVRIES
TH FILMS | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
John DeVries is an internationally award-winning director/writer/producer based in Cape Town, South Africa. He believes in the transformative and culture-shaping power of film and, as such, has spent much of his early career as a documentary filmmaker in conflict zones. He strives to use his experiences to tell engaging, character-driven, action-based narrative stories that inspire change in the world around him. John has worked in over 12 different countries, collaborating on feature films, commercials, music videos, lifestyle TV shows, game shows, and documentaries. He is also the co-owner of Cape Town-based production company, TH Films.
JOSHUA FARRER
ZYLEN | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Joshua Farrer is a 23-year-old filmmaker from South Africa. Being both a visionary and an entrepreneur, he has a zeal for watching his ideas come alive. Joshua already has over 14 years of video-making experience under his belt, having filmed his first video at the age of 8. Over the years since then, Joshua has catapulted himself into the realm of filmmakers, connecting with many content creators across the globe. Joshua has a great love for people and eagerly sparks new connections wherever he goes. Through his videos, he sets out to tell stories that have a lasting impact on anyone who encounters them. Travelling around the world in search of inspiration, he has an eye for detail and colour, an ear for music, and an ability to find beauty in the seemingly insignificant. With the merging of both his creative and entrepreneurial skills, Joshua seeks to help others from all places realise their potential in bringing their own creative dreams to life.
KELLY MORKEL
GOD IS KODESH | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
God is Kodesh Consultancy is a specialised catalyst for meaningful change, built on the principle of “Unlocking Hearts Impact.” At its core is Kelly Morkel, an accomplished Impact Strategist and dedicated problem solver who designs and implements strategies to address pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges globally. Kelly’s unique value is her grassroots-to-management perspective, drawn from an extensive background spanning all government spheres, the private sector, and tertiary education in compliance and community development. This rare, multi-sector experience ensures that GK Consultancy develops solutions that are both visionary and practically implementable, connecting people and organisations for powerful, data-driven collaboration and lasting impact.
KERRY HAGEMANN
JOY SPRINGS | RICHARDS BAY, SOUTH AFRICA
Kerry Hagemann is the founding steward of Joy Springs, a business established to give people water and, through evidence-based findings, show others how investing in water creates a positive impact. With a love for Jesus, people, and business, she is passionate about creating solutions that bring dignity and deliver social change. A strong advocate for work-life harmony, Kerry seeks to blend faith, impact, and entrepreneurship to create well-being, justice, and joy. Kerry is dedicated to showing, through water interventions coupled with evidence-based Social Impact Assessments and sustainability, how Corporate Social Investment (CSI) and access to water can change the world, one life at a time.
LEBOGANG MASHABA
REAL PPE MARKETPLACE | JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Lebogang Mashaba is the Founder & CEO of RealPPE Marketplace and a seasoned entrepreneur with over 2 decades in human capital development, governance, and ecosystem building. A certified Professional Director, MBA graduate, and board member across corporate, education, and non-profit sectors, she is passionate about building redemptive business models that merge impact with sustainability. Her leadership has been recognised through awards such as SAFT Women in Business (Finalist), Grindstone X (Naspers), and Burning Heroes International. Lebogang actively contributes to global platforms, including the G20 Empowered Women Alliance and G100 Advisory Council, while mentoring the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
LUBABALO SINYILILI
ALUHLATA CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS | PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA
Lubabalo is a qualified chartered accountant (CA (SA)) with more than 12 years’ external audit experience in a range of clients, from aviation, financial services and trade and industry. He has extensive experience in both public and private sector audits, having occupied roles of audit manager at the Auditor-General of South Africa and audit partner at PKF (a mid-tier audit firm). His experience, combined with the overall understanding of business environments, sets him apart to be able to add value to his clients.
LUYANDA JAFTA
FLEETLY | Johannesburg, South Africa
Luyanda Jafta is the co-founder of Fleetly, a faith-driven e-hailing employment and fleet management platform in South Africa. Together with his wife, Nozipho, he is pioneering a model that employs drivers full-time, provides benefits and payslips, and opens pathways to vehicle ownership. Guided by his Christian faith, Luyanda sees entrepreneurship as a calling to create dignified work, empower communities, and steward business for Kingdom impact.
MICHELLE DE WET
THE SAFE SPACE | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Michelle is a compassionate and creative professional with a deep-seated passion for connecting people and ideas. She is a teacher and play therapist. Drawing on her two decades of experience leading community projects, church groups, and working with children and families, she has refined her skills in organising, teaching, and effecting positive change. With a heart of mercy and a gift for exhortation, she is driven to create a lasting impact on communities. In her free time, she enjoys photography, hiking, and exploring new places, and loves creating beautiful spaces that foster connection and ambience.
NOKU KATOM
PAUSE PLAN | PAARL, South Africa
Noku Katom is a community developer, author, and founder of Pause Plan Retreat—a social enterprise rooted in faith and Ubuntu values that promotes intentional rest and wellness, inspiring a culture of balance, wellbeing, and human dignity. She is currently completing her Master’s in Practical Theology with a focus on Community Development at Stellenbosch University. Passionate about helping individuals and communities thrive through reflection, renewal, and purpose-driven living, Noku also curates meaningful conversations on her YouTube platform, Pause with Noku.
NOZIPHO RANTEMANE
SHACHAH | SOWETO, South Africa
Nozipho Rantemane is the Founder and Director of Shachah Digital Solutions and a co-founder of No Name Media. As a pastor with a passion for purpose-driven leadership, she runs a digital transformation and marketing company dedicated to empowering businesses and communities through technology. Her work spans digital storytelling, branding, and youth training, as well as pioneering the Salonverse, a metaverse-based solution for township salons. As a mentor, strategist, and preacher, Nozipho equips entrepreneurs and leaders to harness digital tools for growth while staying rooted in faith, purpose, and community impact.
OFENTSE MAKONYA
CONVERSATIONS WITH MY BROTHER | JOHANNESBURG, South Africa
Ofentse Makonya is a qualified Chartered Accountant and the founder of Conversations with My Brother. Conversations with My Brother is a social disruptor and a change agent with a clear mandate: To transform the narrative of the South African man through embodying authentic brotherhood and giving expression to the challenges facing modern men. Conversations has curated a safe and supportive space where men can explore their experience in an environment that encourages emotional openness and vulnerability. Conversations with My Brother is a spark that will ignite the flame to redefine what it means to be a man in today’s world.
PHUMZILE MAJOLA
KIPEPEO | DURBAN, South Africa
Phumzile Patience Majola, affectionately known as uVemvane (the Butterfly), is a devoted minister of the Gospel and visionary leader. She is the founder and Managing Director of Kipepeo—kiSwahili for Butterfly—a life-changing movement that draws inspiration from the Butterfly’s cycle of transformation. She is a passionate community developer who believes in creating innovative and sustainable solutions that bring lasting impact. Her heart for empowerment is evident in her ability to merge faith, social impact, and development to uplift communities. A loving mother of two beautiful daughters, she fully embraces her greater calling as a mother of nations – nurturing others into their God-given destiny.
SHANE JOHANSEN
ID3 | CAPE TOWN, South Africa
Shane is a husband, father, friend, professional leadership coach, and co-founder/director of iD3 (Intelligent Design Synergy). Above all, he is a disciple of Christ. As a futures architect, he has a vision for developing and walking with leaders, a vision which has grown out of his love for life, his personal leadership journey and seeing leaders live lives that are authentic, ethical, passionate, significant and fulfilling. In his spare time, he loves to get out into nature: hiking, trail running, fly fishing and has just started playing golf.
THABANI MTSI
SABELA STUDIOS | CAPE TOWN, South Africa
Thabani Mtsi, founder of Sabela Studios, is dedicated to helping individuals speak with confidence and clarity. Once socially anxious, he struggled with conversation, self-advocacy, and public speaking. Today, he coaches professionals, equipping them with practical tools and frameworks to communicate effectively. He treats his work with reverence because he recognises the effort required to help people reconnect with their authentic voice.
WENDY NGCOBO
ENZAKAHLE CONSULTING | DURBAN, South Africa
Wendy Ngcobo is a passionate and purpose-driven professional with a strong background in project coordination, management, and Corporate Social Investment (CSI). Over the years, she has gained valuable experience working with leading organisations, where she discovered her love for creating meaningful social impact. Recognising the gap between corporate resources and effective community implementation, Wendy founded Enzakahle Consulting to deliver sustainable, people-focused solutions. Her work focuses on empowering businesses to achieve their social investment goals while uplifting communities through development, capacity building, and measurable impact. Wendy is committed to driving transformation, fostering collaboration, and building lasting change.
ZOLISWA KING
WATER TO WINE MEDIA | JOHANNESBURG, South Africa
Zoliswa King is an award-winning creative and content specialist from Ekurhuleni. She has worked across television, music, and digital media, with credits including The Masked Singer South Africa, Unpacked with Relebogile, Miss South Africa, and the Netball World Cup. As the founder of Water to Wine Media — a digital storytelling agency that drives business and social impact through content, creativity, and entertainment — she combines strategy, innovation, and purpose. Fueled by her passion for people, Zoliswa is dedicated to building safe spaces, telling meaningful stories, and creating platforms where others can thrive.
TRIGA VENTURES IS A NON-PROFIT AND PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO) IN SOUTH AFRICA AND ALSO HAS A 501(C)(3) AFFILIATION IN THE USA.