Lucia was born and raised in Mpumalanga and matriculated in 2017. In 2020, she moved to Johannesburg to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration at Maharishi University 📚. She is currently in her final year. Lucia is also an IBM graduate, certified as a Mainframe Administrator 💻. As a talented and strongly motivated individual, she runs a small business as a hairdresser ✂️. She loves making people feel beautiful and comfortable with their own hair. Izimanga ze Africa has supported her through tough times, helping her to grow her business and balance work with her academics 🤝.
Lucia believes that Izimanga ze Africa will continue to help her build her brand through their support and mentorship program 🚀. She aspires to own her own salon and to provide training for those interested in beauty 💇♀️💄
Meet our mentees: Lucia Hlatshwayo

Hello, everyone!👋 I’m Simo Dladla from Kliptown, Soweto. As a mentee, I’m thrilled to share my vision with you all. 🕹️
I’m working on a dream to establish a welcoming and entertaining gaming center in our community. This initiative is about more than just gaming; it’s a platform for children and youth to come together, engage in their favorite activities, and build lasting memories. It’s an opportunity to foster a sense of belonging and provide a positive space for all.
This journey has been made possible with the support of Izimanga ze Africa, which connected me with a mentor who has been instrumental in shaping my approach and refining my ideas. With this guidance and the collective spirit of our community, I’m on my way to make this vision a reality.
If you share my excitement and want to contribute to creating something special in our neighborhood, I’d love to connect with you. Whether you’re into gaming, run a local business, or simply want to offer your support, your involvement is invaluable.
Together, we can create an extraordinary place for our community. Are you with me? 🚀
Meet our mentees: Simo Dladla

Saturday 23 September 2023
Our inaugural forum was a resounding success, featuring seven dynamic participants who presented their business ideas to a jury of experienced entrepreneurs and academics. With a total of 25 attendees, this event marked the beginning of an impactful journey, serving as a launchpad for growth and development in the entrepreneurial landscape. We're excited about the future, building on this foundation of collaborative and creative exchange. Stay tuned for more information!
Launch of Izimanga ze Africa's mentorship program

George comes from Johannesburg and has strong ties to Kwaggafointein, Mpumalanga. He’s known for breaking new ground as the first in his family to achieve a university education, setting a powerful example.
With his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, George now leads with purpose at the Maharishi Institute. He’s not just an academic leader; he’s a mentor dedicated to guiding South Africa’s youth. Through his work with Izimanga ze Africa, George is at the forefront of encouraging young people to reach their potential in education and entrepreneurship🚀.
Get to know George and his mission to uplift and inspire. He’s making a real difference, one young mind at a time. Join us in supporting his journey to empower the next generation. 🌍
Meet our mentors: George Masiya

Born in Tembisa and raised in Ivory Park, Midrand, he comes from humble beginnings.
Leslie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, a Higher National Diploma in Management, a Microsoft Certified System Engineer certification, and a higher certificate in Business Management.
Leslie is passionated about sales and entrepreneurship. Through the Izimanga programs and their supportive community, Leslie aims to cultivate the next generation of dynamic and socially responsible entrepreneurs who will drive positive change in the world.
Meet our mentors: Leslie Matlou
