Mission
Our mission is to develop future leaders by equipping young individuals with the skills, confidence, and support they need to create positive change. Through mentorship, self-development, and community initiatives, we strive to empower young people to reach their potential and give back to the Imizamo Yethu community and beyond.
Cultivating
Future Leaders
Thatha Ithuba was founded to empower its members to eventually lead the organization. Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, we’ve built a strong foundation. Now, we’re excited to take a bold step by entrusting our alumni with greater responsibility, enabling them to assume leadership roles within Thatha Ithuba South Africa (TISA). This transition marks our commitment to creating a self-sustaining, community-led organization where former mentees can lead future generations.
History
Thatha Ithuba was founded in 2016 with the shared vision of empowering young individuals from the Imizamo Yethu (IY) community in Hout Bay. Developed through the dedication of a committed team and community members eager to make a difference, it began as a mentorship program aimed at fostering self-development, leadership, and community impact. What started as a small initiative has grown into a foundation transforming the lives of hundreds of young people and strengthening the communities they call home.
Our Team
Dedicated team overseeing and
supporting our mission.
-
![]()
«I dream of a world where young people are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed and become positive change-makers in their communities.»
Yamkela Nomnganga
-
![]()
«I dream of a future where every young person has the support they need to pursue higher education and use that knowledge to uplift their families and society.»
Debra Mkhaphuza
-
![]()
«I dream of a society where every young person, no matter their race, gender, or socioeconomic status, has equal access to education, opportunities, and the support they need to succeed.»
Chris Bagalwa
-
![]()
«I dream of a community where collaboration between organizations, individuals, and families creates a strong foundation for growth, progress, and collective success.»
Stephano Nkosi
-
![]()
«I dream of a community where every young person is empowered to pursue their dreams, break barriers, and build a future full of possibilities.»
Phumelela Tomtala
-
![]()
«I dream of a community where young people are given the tools to develop into strong leaders who take ownership of their futures and inspire others to do the same.»
Melikhaya Mdubeki
-
![]()
«I dream of a community where every young person is given the opportunity to lead and make decisions that shape a better, brighter future for their neighborhoods.»
Azola Nyoka
-
![]()
«I dream of a future where every young person has access to the resources, guidance, and mentorship they need to succeed and contribute positively to society.»
Elie Mabunda
-
![]()
«I dream of Thatha Ithuba becoming a lifelong family for everyone, where love, mentorship, and opportunity pave the way for lasting transformation across generations.»
Gina Hilzinger, Director
-
![]()
«I dream of a generation of young people in South Africa who are able to shape a positive and hopeful future for themselves and their community. Let's lead not follow.»
Martin Hilzinger, President of the Board
-
![]()
«I dream of creating meaningful connections between Switzerland and South Africa, fostering partnerships that bring hope and opportunity to communities in need.»
Klaus Rütschi, Vize-President
-
![]()
«I dream of seeing Thatha Ithuba alumni rise as leaders, shaping a self-sustaining organization that continues to empower future generations with strength and vision.»
Hansueli Baier, Trustee
-
![]()
«I dream of witnessing the joy and confidence in mentees and mentors as they turn challenges into triumphs, knowing that we’ve helped dreams come true.»
Livia Koller, Trustee
