Team

After four years with Mada at the helm as ASAP’s Chief Executive, ASAP was internationally recognised with the prestigious 2023 iF Social Impact Prize for its innovative, community-driven programmes. Mada completed her MSc in Psychology during a two-year break from the organisation before returning to ASAP to help guide its next phase of growth. Mada holds a first-class BA (Hons) in Digital Arts from London, where she worked at the renowned Chez Bruce and later served as Communications Manager for Michelin-star chef Tom Aikens. Her intrinsic drive for social change led her to study permaculture and agroecology, and, in 2009, she co-founded the Kusamala Institute of Agriculture and Ecology in Malawi – a training and demonstration centre that continues to empower households and small farmers across the country. Upon returning to South Africa, Mada worked at Camphill Farm Community in the Hemel en Aarde Valley, where she developed agro-economic activities to strengthen organisational sustainability. She credits this time with deepening her expertise in enterprise development, fundraising, and non-profit management, which she later applied as a consultant before joining ASAP.

Linet is the longest serving ASAP team member, having joined the organization in 2008. With diplomas in Education and Project Management, certificates in HIV/AIDS Education, Care and Counselling, extensive training in ABCD Facilitation, management coaching, Effective Communication using Non-Violent Communication and a wealth of experience gained over her years in the sector, Linet is an impact-driven individual with a passion for community development. Linet was based in the Cape Town office for many years before relocating to Matatiele to work more closely with the women ASAP serves. She has witnessed first-hand the impact that commitment to community development can have over time and this remains her core motivation for the work ASAP does.

Nandipha Magqashela is a qualified Social Worker with a degree and Honours in Social Work from Walter Sisulu University, and a Diploma in Project Management from Alison Online Learning. She has completed a short course in Local Fundraising and has extensive experience in mental health, HIV/AIDS support, and community development.

Her career includes:

Umzimkulu Psychiatric Hospital: Counselling mental health care users and families; community awareness.

E.G. & Usher Memorial Hospital, Kokstad: Crisis centre counselling for HIV/AIDS, sexual assault, suicide prevention; school outreach on teenage pregnancy and substance abuse.

Inkwenkwezi Community Development: Project Coordinator.

Holland Doctors (Matatiele): Social Worker and coordinator for free medical checks for children.

Mfundo found his passion for working with vulnerable people while studying Office Management and Technology at WSUT, volunteering at LoveLife and the Centre for Learning, Teaching and Development (CLTD). He joined the team at ASAP Foundation in 2014 and is now a trained facilitator. Mfundo hopes to contribute to breaking the chain of human rights violations in cultural and traditional settings through enabling traditional authorities to be agents of change.

“As an effective young male leader, I consecrate my time, talent and passion to being a vital presence in the lives of individuals, families in any community at all times, in all places and with all people.”– Mfundo.

Kananelo Mbhele brings extensive experience from the BPO industry, where she developed a strong foundation in communication and service. Over time, she discovered that her true passion lies in working with people and driving meaningful change.

An activist since her early days at Ingwe TVET College, Kananelo has consistently gravitated toward community engagement and development initiatives. She is proud to be part of an organization that empowers individuals to shape their futures while championing sustainability.

For Kananelo, the opportunity to help transform African lives is both personally and professionally fulfilling. She is deeply committed to leveraging her skills and experience to make a lasting, positive impact.

Tsebo Mokhantso is a registered Holistic Counsellor (ASCHP) with a Qualification in Counselling and Communication from SACAP. She has completed a short course in Mental Health and is currently furthering her studies to deepen her expertise.

She brings experience in counselling, psycho-social support, emotional care, and community training, having worked in community programmes, rehabilitation centres, and educational settings. Her roles have included Emotional Supporter at Village 2.0 and Tranquillity Rehabilitation Centre, as well as Assistant Teacher, supporting learners with emotional and behavioural needs.

Grounded in empathy, integrity, and a holistic approach, Tsebo is committed to guiding individuals through emotional challenges, trauma, and life transitions. Her purpose is to empower every person she works with to reclaim their strength, build resilience, and create a healthier, more balanced life.

Ansa received her B.Comm (Mathematics) in March 2004 from the University of Stellenbosch, with majors in Financial Accounting and Mathematical Statistics. She has a wealth of experience in FMCG in both the UK and South Africa, before joining the ASAP team in October 2019. Ansa is committed to ensuring the effective financial management of the organisation.

Sinethemba first encountered ASAP as a youth beneficiary in Bhubesi village near Matatiele. He credits the fact that he is now completing his final year of a Law Diploma at at the University of South Africa, to the mentorship and guidance her received in ASAP’s youth development program.

Sinethemba is dedicated to advancing legal and community development in the rural villages of the Eastern Cape, much like the one he is from. As a passionate advocate, project coordinator, and policy contributor, he has played a pivotal role in initiatives that address gender-based violence and access to justice.