Mentorship Program

Adv. Anastasia Machobane holds a B. Juris and LL.B from the University of Pretoria, an MDP from GIBS/UP, an Aviation Law Diploma from IATA Canada, and a Certificate in Editing and Proofreading from UCT. Admitted to the High Court of South Africa since February 2001, Anastasia has consistently expanded her expertise through specialized courses in PFMA, risk management, compliance, company secretarial practices, aviation, and corporate governance.

Rishendrie Thanthony is a highly accomplished professional with dual qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Company Secretary. With nine years of experience in the structured finance industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

Rishendrie began her career at Nkonki Inc., where she gained valuable experience in auditing and internal controls. Her passion for skills development led her to actively contribute to Nkonki's CTA tutor program.

Since 2012, Rishendrie has been a key player in the South African securitization and financial services markets. Joining GMG Trust Company (SA) and subsequently TMF Group, she has progressed through various leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as Head of General Entity Manager for the MEA region in 2020.

Rishendrie's extensive experience includes serving as an independent director and audit committee chairperson on various client boards, as well as chairing the accounting sub-committee of the South African Securitisation Forum.

Pat is a seasoned energy executive with over 25 years of global experience across upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors in Southern Africa, West Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Canada. She possesses a strong understanding of the global energy landscape, including its regulatory frameworks and business nuances.

Currently advising the Board of Directors at ManUp, Pat leverages her strategic acumen and extensive industry knowledge to guide the organization towards achieving its business objectives. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, she is committed to integrating ESG principles into the daily operations of the Energy, Utilities, and Resources sectors.

As a chemical engineer with an MBA, Pat is a dedicated mentor and coach, actively involved with Lean In Energy Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa to empower young women in the energy industry. She is also a member of the Institute of Directors of South Africa (IoDSA).

Dr. Siyabonga Nzimande is a leading public health expert specializing in TB and HIV policy and implementation within the UNAIDS framework. He actively engages communities in clinical research, advocating for their participation and input at every stage, from protocol development to results dissemination.

As Co-Chair of the eThekwini District AIDS Council and an Executive member of the Provincial AIDS Council in KZN, Siyabonga champions civil society engagement in TB research and policy development. He is a respected voice in the field, presenting at national and international conferences and contributing to key policy discussions.

A Mandela Washington Fellow, Dr. Siyabonga holds a Masters in Gender Studies (Public Health), a Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a National Diploma in Public Administration.

Dr. Pulane Molokwane, a powerhouse in science and engineering, is a Nuclear Physicist and Water & Environmental specialist. Her expertise spans groundwater remediation, nuclear waste management, and energy solutions. Dr. Molokwane actively shapes national policy as a Commissioner for Science & Technology on the Presidential National Planning Commission.

A champion for environmental progress, she chairs the Water Task Team and advocates for a Professional Capable State and Active citizenry. Recognized as one of South Africa's leading women in STEM, Dr. Molokwane has published extensively and served on prestigious boards like Eskom and Necsa.