In 2005, Zanele completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree at the University of Cape Town with a double major in Psychology and Social Anthropology. She then obtained an Honours degree in Diversity Studies from the same institution in 2008 and is currently enrolled in a Masters degree in the same programme. As a researcher and consultant for Mthente, Zanele brings over three years of work experience in the development sector and strong qualitative research skills, which she has applied in a range of research projects for various NGOs and government departments.

William Masemola obtained his diploma in Jazz Studies at the University of Cape Town in 2006 and is currently in the second year of his Masters degree in Arts, Culture and Heritage at the University of Witwatersrand. The experience he acquired during his academic arts training has furnished him with a diversity of skills which cut across industries. The ability to think creatively and to find innovative solutions to problems are also attributes which he has honed through his academic studies and through training and working as a musician and researcher.

Having worked in many parts of the world, Khilona has gained wide-ranging experience working with leading multi-nationals, amongst them Microsoft, HP, Fujitsu Siemens and Dell. Khilona is currently an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Management in the UK; the Director of Pierhead Lock Management Association and a Mentor of the Prince’s Trust.

Pearl has worked extensively in the field of Human Resources Management and Change Management. She worked for South African Airways for a number of years before starting her own Human Resources and Management Consultancy, which she ran for approximately 5 years. She frequently assists Mthente with workshop facilitation and fieldwork.

Maria is passionate about enterprise development, and brings a diverse background and experience to her work. After qualifying as a medical doctor in 1999 she worked in primary health care centres in under resourced communities in the Cape Town area. This exposure gave her insight into the economic hardships experienced by people in these communities, and influenced her decision to move into the field of economic development.

Lindiwe is a research librarian at the UNISA School of Business Leadership. Prior to this, she was employed as a teacher by the then Department of Education and Training. Later, she worked for the South African Committee for Higher Education as a student and tutor coordinator.