CLASS OF 2019
LIVHUWANI NEFOLOVHODWE, 28, Podcast Host of Lessons with Lion (voted Top 5 Best Podcasts for 2018 by Entrepreneur Magazine), Digital Marketing Strategist and Social Commentator.
“What drove me to start Lessons with Lion was my passion for South African SMMEs. I realised that our entrepreneurs are incredibly talented and determined — what was missing was affordable knowledge that could help them improve certain processes in their businesses. Being a woman in 2019 means using technology and social media to disrupt spaces that have historically been reserved for men. The year 2019 is the dawn of a time when women have loud voices that have impact. This is the era of the Girl Boss!”
GAONE TLHONG, 34, Founder of Beyond Vitiligo, a non-profit organisation creating awareness on vitiligo in South Africa and beyond through support, education and acceptance.
“When I was 22, a trauma caused my vitiligo to reappear, which took me back to the bullying I experienced during my childhood. I felt hopeless, isolated and not beautiful enough. What I didn’t know was that all I went through was preparing me for a breakthrough. I feel honoured to be one of the first organisations in South Africa to think beyond medications for vitiligo – the idea was to improve the living standards for people with vitiligo. I bring all stakeholders (pharmaceutical companies, dermatologists, schools and families) under one umbrella so we can fight the stigma, and positively contribute to communities by educating them about the condition.”
RUBY CHIKWIRI, 22, UCT graduate, Unicef Volunteer, and Founder of #DressAGraduate. The initiative facilitates the donation of graduation-appropriate attire, graduation gowns, make-up, hair and photography services for graduates in need across South Africa. Chikwiri also started a pad drive initiative in 2013, which earned her the Lead SA Youth Hero award.
“My family encouraged me to be kind, creative and believe that I was capable of anything I set my mind to. This is what has enabled me to embark on creative humanitarian initiatives. To me, being an advocate for positive change means that I’m doing my duty as a citizen. I’m actively playing
