Faith is an experienced and versatile Human Capital Professional, passionate about driving sustained organisational performance through building efficiencies and managing talent effectively. Her Master’s research focused on assessing performance management in one of the largest State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). Faith is also a founding member of YLED, where she has served as Deputy Chairperson for nine years before being appointed Chairperson on February 1, 2024. Having grown through YLED’s ranks—as a participant, volunteer, facilitator, and executive—she has a deep commitment to its mission.
Faith holds four degrees from Wits University, including a Master’s, and is a certified Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) with the ETDP.
Thabo Serame is an award-winning leader in both the digital and the youth development landscape. He is a massive advocate of digital transformation and has spent over a decade working as a specialist and coach in this field. Thabo has dedicated his career to inspiring, mentoring, and equipping the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs alike to succeed in the ever-evolving business landscape.
YLED 2008 Graduate, BA in Organisational Psychology, Honours in Social Anthropology (Wits, 2011 & 2012), PDM (Wits Business School, 2013), Brand SA Play Your Part Ambassador, Social Entrepreneur.
Experienced marketing professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management and certifications in Digital Brand Strategy and Digital Marketing. Extensive experience in the FMCG industry, including a highly coveted commercial trainee position, providing a deep understanding of business operations and a strategic mindset. Proven ability to adapt to new challenges, deliver results, and work collaboratively with industry experts and senior management. Freelance digital marketing experience with diverse clients and a strong commitment to staying at the forefront of digital marketing trends and technologies.
Actively involved in the non-profit sector, driving events, marketing, and communication initiatives. Strong teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills, with a passion for making a positive impact.
Khanyisile Desiree Hlongwane holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from Wits University and a Higher Diploma in Accounting from Milpark Business School. Currently, she is embarking on her journey as a CA Trainee at Barloworld, where she is honing her skills and knowledge in the realm of finance and accounting. Prior to her role at Barloworld, Khanyisile served as a Financial Accountant at VAT IT, where she gained invaluable experience in financial management and reporting. With a solid educational background and professional experience, Khanyisile is poised to make significant contributions in the field of accounting and finance.
Leigh-Ann is a UJ LLB Law Graduate and currently works as a Junior Attorney at Vermeulen Attorneys. She works mostly in the Family Law Department with Domestic Violence, Children’s Court, Divorce, Acquisition and Termination of Parental Responsibilities and Rights, as well as Maintenance matters. Leigh-Ann has also recently completed a 64H Family Law Mediation Course through Mediation Academy.
Steven Zwane is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and dedicated educator, renowned for his influential role in shaping youth leadership and entrepreneurship in South Africa. As the visionary founder of Youth Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development, Steven has empowered over 20,000 young minds, particularly focusing on Grade 11 students, imparting crucial entrepreneurship skills. With a wealth of experience spanning two decades, Steven holds a prominent position as an entrepreneurship, operations, and strategy lecturer at the Gordon Institute of Business Science. Recently earning his Doctor of Business Administration from Durham University Business School (UK), he solidifies his commitment to entrepreneurship education.
Beyond academia, Steven is a devoted volunteer facilitator at YLED for over 20 years, actively contributing to program design and execution. His hands-on involvement adds authenticity to his advocacy for embedding entrepreneurship education in the South African curriculum from an early age.
Through his impactful Entrepreneurship Workbook series, Steven demonstrates practical methods to extend entrepreneurship lessons to the youth. The workbook features entrepreneurs who generously shared their real-world experiences, reinforcing Steven’s commitment to making entrepreneurship education an integral part of South Africa’s educational framework. His vision is clear: to empower the next generation with the knowledge and mindset for economic independence and job creation.
Dr. Steven Zwane, holding a BSc in Computer Science from the University of Zululand, South Africa, is a distinguished Entrepreneurship Advocate and Educator. With an illustrious academic journey, Steven has earned both a Master of Business Administration and a Doctor of Business Administration from Durham University, UK.