Our Directors
Our directors bring together purpose, expertise, and leadership to drive meaningful change. They are committed to empowering individuals, building resilient communities, and ensuring every initiative creates sustainable impact.
Our Directors
Our directors bring together purpose, expertise, and leadership to drive meaningful change. They are committed to empowering individuals, building resilient communities, and ensuring every initiative creates sustainable impact.
Richard Wainwright
Chairman
Richard joined Investec Bank in 1995 and went on to serve as CEO of both Investec Bank PLC and Investec Bank Limited. Over the years, he played an instrumental role in driving growth, innovation, and leadership within the organization. Beyond his corporate career, Richard dedicated much of his time to community upliftment through his involvement in Round Table, where he actively participated in numerous community projects and charity fundraising events across Gauteng. In 2003, he was invited back as an honorary member, a testament to his lasting impact and commitment. Now retired, Richard remains deeply passionate about social development and continues to champion initiatives that empower communities across South Africa.
Richard Wainwright
Chairman
Richard joined Investec Bank in 1995 and went on to serve as CEO of both Investec Bank PLC and Investec Bank Limited. Over the years, he played an instrumental role in driving growth, innovation, and leadership within the organization. Beyond his corporate career, Richard dedicated much of his time to community upliftment through his involvement in Round Table, where he actively participated in numerous community projects and charity fundraising events across Gauteng. In 2003, he was invited back as an honorary member, a testament to his lasting impact and commitment. Now retired, Richard remains deeply passionate about social development and continues to champion initiatives that empower communities across South Africa.
Jane Chapman
Founder and Strategic Director
I’ve always believed in the extraordinary potential within South African people. At Seeds of Africa, our purpose is to unlock that potential by equipping people with the personal and business development tools, skills and confidence to shape their own futures. Seeing individuals awaken to their own potential and discover what they’re truly capable of, build sustainable livelihoods and become social and economic catalysts creating opportunities that strengthen families and transform communities, is what continues to inspire me every day.
Jane Chapman
Founder and Strategic Director
I’ve always believed in the extraordinary potential within South African people. At Seeds of Africa, our purpose is to unlock that potential by equipping people with the personal and business development tools, skills and confidence to shape their own futures. Seeing individuals awaken to their own potential and discover what they’re truly capable of, build sustainable livelihoods and become social and economic catalysts creating opportunities that strengthen families and transform communities, is what continues to inspire me every day.
Jennifer Sennett
Strategic & Marketing Director
The opportunity to work with an organization such as SoA is – for her – a true privilege, assisting people to create a better life for themselves based on the real foundation of sustainable entrepreneurship
Matthew Martino
Financial Director
The enterprise and skills development initiative has benefited from Mathew’s experience in small business development. He strongly believes in the key aims of the initiative, which are to empower people and give them the opportunity to be independent.
Shawn Theunissen
Director
Shawn Theunissen brings over 15 years of visionary leadership in corporate social responsibility, transformation, and enterprise development to the Seeds of Africa Board. As Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Transformation at Growthpoint Properties, one of South Africa’s leading real estate investment trusts, Shawn has been instrumental in developing strategies that deliver meaningful social and economic impact. He is the founder of Property Point, Growthpoint’s award-winning enterprise and supplier development initiative, which has empowered hundreds of small and growing businesses in the property sector—creating jobs and driving measurable contributions to South Africa’s GDP. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, Shawn also founded Entrepreneurship To The Point, a platform that connects and equips business leaders and emerging entrepreneurs to collaborate, innovate, and grow. Beyond his corporate achievements, Shawn has served as Vice President of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and received global recognition from the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) for his contribution to entrepreneurship and inclusive growth. Known for his strategic insight and collaborative leadership, Shawn embodies Seeds of Africa’s mission to empower local enterprises and drive sustainable transformation across South Africa.
Shawn Theunissen
Director
Shawn Theunissen brings over 15 years of visionary leadership in corporate social responsibility, transformation, and enterprise development to the Seeds of Africa Board. As Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Transformation at Growthpoint Properties, one of South Africa’s leading real estate investment trusts, Shawn has been instrumental in developing strategies that deliver meaningful social and economic impact. He is the founder of Property Point, Growthpoint’s award-winning enterprise and supplier development initiative, which has empowered hundreds of small and growing businesses in the property sector—creating jobs and driving measurable contributions to South Africa’s GDP. A passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, Shawn also founded Entrepreneurship To The Point, a platform that connects and equips business leaders and emerging entrepreneurs to collaborate, innovate, and grow. Beyond his corporate achievements, Shawn has served as Vice President of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and received global recognition from the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE) for his contribution to entrepreneurship and inclusive growth. Known for his strategic insight and collaborative leadership, Shawn embodies Seeds of Africa’s mission to empower local enterprises and drive sustainable transformation across South Africa.
Monica Molise
Director
Monica Molise brings a wealth of expertise in transformation, empowerment, and sustainable growth to the Seeds of Africa Board. Holding an LLB from UNISA and a Management Development Programme in B-BBEE from WITS, she is the CEO and founder of Thriving Dirang (Pty) Ltd, a consulting firm specialising in strategic advisory, ownership structuring, and legislative compliance for South African enterprises. A former Deputy Chairperson of the Association of B-BBEE Professionals (ABP), Monica previously oversaw the Public Relations and Legal, Regulatory, and Technical portfolios—cementing her as a respected authority in transformation and governance. As a thought leader and lecturer, she contributes to the UNISA School of Business Leadership and leads the Executive Development Programme for Women in Tourism, empowering future leaders in business and transformation. Her legal acumen, strategic insight, and commitment to inclusive growth align powerfully with Seeds of Africa’s mission, making her a vital force in driving sustainable impact and community development.
Monica Molise
Director
Monica Molise brings a wealth of expertise in transformation, empowerment, and sustainable growth to the Seeds of Africa Board. Holding an LLB from UNISA and a Management Development Programme in B-BBEE from WITS, she is the CEO and founder of Thriving Dirang (Pty) Ltd, a consulting firm specialising in strategic advisory, ownership structuring, and legislative compliance for South African enterprises. A former Deputy Chairperson of the Association of B-BBEE Professionals (ABP), Monica previously oversaw the Public Relations and Legal, Regulatory, and Technical portfolios—cementing her as a respected authority in transformation and governance. As a thought leader and lecturer, she contributes to the UNISA School of Business Leadership and leads the Executive Development Programme for Women in Tourism, empowering future leaders in business and transformation. Her legal acumen, strategic insight, and commitment to inclusive growth align powerfully with Seeds of Africa’s mission, making her a vital force in driving sustainable impact and community development.
Nomsa Mazwai
Director
Nomsa Mazwai, affectionately known as Nomisupasta, brings a powerful mix of intellect, creativity, and leadership to the Seeds of Africa Board. A Fulbright Scholar with a Master’s in International Political Economy and Development from Fordham University (New York), she blends academic excellence with artistic passion—earning a SAMA Award for her contribution to South African music. As the first female SRC President at the University of Fort Hare in 90 years, Nomsa has consistently broken barriers and championed social justice. Her work as a development economist, artist, and activist continues to inspire inclusive growth and empowerment, aligning deeply with Seeds of Africa’s mission to create opportunity and transform lives.
Nomsa Mazwai
Director
Nomsa Mazwai, affectionately known as Nomisupasta, brings a powerful mix of intellect, creativity, and leadership to the Seeds of Africa Board. A Fulbright Scholar with a Master’s in International Political Economy and Development from Fordham University (New York), she blends academic excellence with artistic passion—earning a SAMA Award for her contribution to South African music. As the first female SRC President at the University of Fort Hare in 90 years, Nomsa has consistently broken barriers and championed social justice. Her work as a development economist, artist, and activist continues to inspire inclusive growth and empowerment, aligning deeply with Seeds of Africa’s mission to create opportunity and transform lives.
Sijadu Mzozoyana
Director
Sijadu Mzozoyana is a visionary leader and Chief Executive Officer of Relativ Group, one of South Africa’s leading outdoor and digital media companies. A qualified Advocate of the High Court with an LLB from the University of Cape Town and a Postgraduate Diploma in Investigative and Forensic Accounting from the University of Pretoria, Sijadu combines legal acumen with strategic leadership to drive transformation and inclusive growth in the media sector. Born and raised in the rural village of Maluti, his journey from humble beginnings to corporate leadership embodies resilience, education, and purpose. Beyond business, he champions youth entrepreneurship and community feeding initiatives, empowering the next generation through opportunity and example. Guided by integrity, inclusion, and accountability, Sijadu’s leadership and passion for empowerment align deeply with Seeds of Africa’s mission to uplift communities and foster sustainable livelihoods.
Sijadu Mzozoyana
Director
Sijadu Mzozoyana is a visionary leader and Chief Executive Officer of Relativ Group, one of South Africa’s leading outdoor and digital media companies. A qualified Advocate of the High Court with an LLB from the University of Cape Town and a Postgraduate Diploma in Investigative and Forensic Accounting from the University of Pretoria, Sijadu combines legal acumen with strategic leadership to drive transformation and inclusive growth in the media sector. Born and raised in the rural village of Maluti, his journey from humble beginnings to corporate leadership embodies resilience, education, and purpose. Beyond business, he champions youth entrepreneurship and community feeding initiatives, empowering the next generation through opportunity and example. Guided by integrity, inclusion, and accountability, Sijadu’s leadership and passion for empowerment align deeply with Seeds of Africa’s mission to uplift communities and foster sustainable livelihoods.
Nomathemba Malinga
Director
Nomathemba Malinga, Group Chief Executive of Zindela Advisory Services, brings visionary leadership and a deep commitment to social and environmental impact to the Seeds of Africa Board. With over a decade of experience in sustainable communication and reputation management, she has been at the forefront of promoting responsible commerce and purposeful business practice. Through her work at Zindela Communications, Nomathemba has championed sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship—encouraging businesses to balance profit with purpose. Her expertise in brand strategy, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, combined with her empathetic leadership, enables her to navigate complex challenges with clarity and vision. Passionate about using communication as a force for good, she continues to inspire change and inclusive growth, aligning seamlessly with Seeds of Africa’s mission to empower communities and drive meaningful transformation across South Africa.
Nomathemba Malinga
Director
Nomathemba Malinga, Group Chief Executive of Zindela Advisory Services, brings visionary leadership and a deep commitment to social and environmental impact to the Seeds of Africa Board. With over a decade of experience in sustainable communication and reputation management, she has been at the forefront of promoting responsible commerce and purposeful business practice. Through her work at Zindela Communications, Nomathemba has championed sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship—encouraging businesses to balance profit with purpose. Her expertise in brand strategy, marketing, and stakeholder engagement, combined with her empathetic leadership, enables her to navigate complex challenges with clarity and vision. Passionate about using communication as a force for good, she continues to inspire change and inclusive growth, aligning seamlessly with Seeds of Africa’s mission to empower communities and drive meaningful transformation across South Africa.
Sally Viljoen
Chief Operations Officer & Director
Sally Ann Viljoen has been an integral part of Seeds of Africa since 2010, bringing to life the organisation’s vision of empowering people. Guided by a lifelong sense of community and a passion for making a difference, she has helped shape Seeds of Africa into a beacon of hope for early childhood practitioners and emerging entrepreneurs. With many years of dedicated service, Sally leads the organisation’s operations with compassion, integrity, and excellence. In addition to her operational leadership as Chief Operations Officer, Sally also serves as Financial Manager, where she oversees programme budgets and ensures accountability across all projects. Her unwavering commitment to empowerment—particularly within the early childhood development space—reflects her belief that every person deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. From a young age, Sally’s sense of community and care for others has driven her purpose, making her a cornerstone of Seeds of Africa’s mission to cultivate sustainable change and nurture the seeds of a better future.
Sharlini Lingiah
Director
Sharlini Lingiah brings over a decade of strategic human resources leadership and a deep commitment to building inclusive, empowered organisations. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce in Law, she has established herself as a trusted people strategist, specialising in organisational development, employee engagement, and conflict resolution. As Group HR Manager at NJR Steel, Sharlini oversees 29 businesses across South Africa, guiding diverse teams with empathy and insight. A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, she fosters workplace cultures where people thrive and contribute meaningfully. Her calm, data-driven leadership and conflict management expertise make her a respected voice in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. Through her contribution to Seeds of Africa, she continues to champion human connection and positive social change—values that perfectly align with the organisation’s mission of empowering communities and fostering growth.
Sharlini Lingiah
Director
Sharlini Lingiah brings over a decade of strategic human resources leadership and a deep commitment to building inclusive, empowered organisations. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce in Law, she has established herself as a trusted people strategist, specialising in organisational development, employee engagement, and conflict resolution. As Group HR Manager at NJR Steel, Sharlini oversees 29 businesses across South Africa, guiding diverse teams with empathy and insight. A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, she fosters workplace cultures where people thrive and contribute meaningfully. Her calm, data-driven leadership and conflict management expertise make her a respected voice in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. Through her contribution to Seeds of Africa, she continues to champion human connection and positive social change—values that perfectly align with the organisation’s mission of empowering communities and fostering growth.
Marylne Mojela
Director
Marlyne Mojela is a dedicated member of the Seeds of Africa Board and a key part of the team, known for her integrity, precision, and passion for community empowerment. With over five years of experience in financial administration, she combines strong analytical skills with a deep commitment to education and social impact. A Bachelor of Commerce (Cum Laude) graduate from Regent Business School, Marlyne is currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences with UNISA, working toward her goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant (SA). Her journey—from excelling at Western TVET College to volunteering with Umnotho for Empowerment—reflects her belief in education as a tool for transformation. In her role at Seeds of Africa, she ensures sound financial management and transparent reporting, driving accountability and sustainability within the organisation.
Sally Ann Viljoen
Director
Sally Ann Viljoen has been an integral part of Seeds of Africa since 2010, bringing to life the organisation’s vision of empowering people. Guided by a lifelong sense of community and a passion for making a difference, she has helped shape Seeds of Africa into a beacon of hope for early childhood practitioners and emerging entrepreneurs. With many years of dedicated service, Sally leads the organisation’s operations with compassion, integrity, and excellence. In addition to her operational leadership as Chief Operations Officer, Sally also serves as Financial Manager, where she oversees programme budgets and ensures accountability across all projects. Her unwavering commitment to empowerment—particularly within the early childhood development space—reflects her belief that every person deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. From a young age, Sally’s sense of community and care for others has driven her purpose, making her a cornerstone of Seeds of Africa’s mission to cultivate sustainable change and nurture the seeds of a better future.
Marylne Mojela
Director
Marlyne Mojela is a dedicated member of the Seeds of Africa Board and a key part of the team, known for her integrity, precision, and passion for community empowerment. With over five years of experience in financial administration, she combines strong analytical skills with a deep commitment to education and social impact. A Bachelor of Commerce (Cum Laude) graduate from Regent Business School, Marlyne is currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences with UNISA, working toward her goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant (SA). Her journey—from excelling at Western TVET College to volunteering with Umnotho for Empowerment—reflects her belief in education as a tool for transformation. In her role at Seeds of Africa, she ensures sound financial management and transparent reporting, driving accountability and sustainability within the organisation.