SAPA National Conference 2025

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Plenary Speakers

Minister, National Department of Basic Education

Siviwe Gwarube, the Minister of Basic Education in South Africa’s Government of National Unity, is the youngest Cabinet Minister in the country’s history. Since May 2019, she has represented the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Parliament, previously serving as the Chief Whip of the Official Opposition, where she focused on enhancing parliamentary effectiveness and member capacity. Before this, she was the DA’s shadow minister of Health, making notable contributions during the National Health Insurance legislative process and the Covid-19 pandemic, and held roles as national spokesperson and deputy chief whip. Gwarube has actively pushed for greater parliamentary accountability and executive oversight, including proposing legislation to stabilise coalition governments. A graduate in Politics, Law, and Philosophy from Rhodes University and the University of the Western Cape, she began her political career as a spokesperson for DA’s then-Parliamentary Leader Lindiwe Mazibuko. Linkedin

Founder & Motivational Speaker, I Can Institute

David Molapo is a leading management consultant, educator, and renowned motivational speaker known for his ability to captivate audiences with a unique blend of humour, incredible stage presence, and personal life experiences. Each year, he motivates and inspires over a million people in South Africa, equipping them with the confidence and tools to transform their lives and positively impact those around them. David addresses various subjects: Quality Management, Communication, Entrepreneurial Skills, Team Building, Leadership, Affirmative Action, and Accepting Change. Among the 50 books he has authored, “Growing Up Spiritually,” “The 10 Exciting Keys to Success,” and “If You Are Not Growing, You Are Dying” are standout works that have significantly influenced readers. Linkedin

Award-winning Mountaineer & Transformational Coach

Saray Khumalo is an award-winning mountaineer, a Mandela Libraries ambassador, a social entrepreneur, a mother of two boys and also an executive in one of the distinguished financial institutions in South Africa. She has over time demonstrated her commitment to making a difference in her environment through mountaineering. Saray delivers motivational and actionable talks to drive meaningful outcomes for organisations and communities. By climbing the 7 Summits with a Purpose Journey, Saray aims to encourage ordinary people or organisations to aim higher and be extraordinary. Linkedin

Director-General, National Department of Basic Education

Hubert Mathanzima Mweli, Director-General for Basic Education, brings extensive experience and deep sector understanding. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education with Honours, a Bachelor of Administration in Industrial Relations with Honours, and a Master’s Degree in Development and Management from the University of the North West. Starting as a teacher at Bophirima High School in 1990, Mweli has risen through the ranks and contributed to key education policies. As Head of the Department in the North West, he improved the province’s Grade 12 exam results from the bottom three to the top three, balanced a budget deficit of R1.2 billion, and led the department to an Unqualified Audit Opinion with a Certificate of Merit for Excellence for the 2008/9 financial year. X

Chief Director, National Department of Basic Education

James Ndlebe, a Soweto-born educator, has built an impressive career since graduating cum laude in Biology from Soweto College. He furthered his expertise in education management at UNISA and human resources at Damelin. Starting as a teacher in Soweto, he advanced through roles including Departmental Head, Deputy Principal, Principal, Circuit Manager, and Head of Circuit Managers. Ndlebe has been an executive member of the Education Management Association of South Africa and contributed to significant publications on educational leadership and financial management. Currently, he serves as the Chief Director for Planning and Monitoring Implementation at the Department of Basic Education. An avid traveller, Ndlebe has enriched his perspective by visiting numerous countries worldwide, including Lesotho, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, the USA, France, Britain, Singapore, China, and many more. Linkedin

Member of the Executive Council, Gauteng Department of Education, Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation

Matome Chiloane is a South African politician who has been serving as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education, Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation in Gauteng since July 2024. Before this role, he was the MEC for Education from October 2022 to June 2024. Chiloane has been a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature since March 2018, representing the African National Congress (ANC), and previously chaired the education committee within the legislature. Additionally, he serves as the provincial chairperson of the ANC Youth League (ANCYL). Linkedin

Head of Department (HOD), Gauteng Department of Education

Rufus Mmutlana, currently the Head of Department at the Gauteng Department of Education in South Africa, brings a wealth of experience from previous roles at Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA), Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership & Governance, PALAMA (Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy), and SAMDI. He holds a Master of Management in Human Resource Management from Wits Business School, earned between 1994 and 1996. Mmutlana’s expertise spans Change Management, Strategic Planning, Strategy, Organisational Development, and other areas. Linkedin

Chief Executive Officer, South African Council for Educators

Ella Mokgalane joined SACE in 1998 as the Professional Development Manager and has risen to the position of CEO since 2018. Before her tenure at SACE, she served as Deputy Chief Education Specialist: HRD in the Mpumalanga Department of Education, and worked as a researcher, lecturer at Wits University, and teacher. She currently runs a programme on SACE Women in Educational Leadership and Management, with 22 women contributing to a book on their principalship experiences. Ella holds eight qualifications, including a Bachelor of Primary Education, BEd Hons, Diploma in Human Resource Management and Development, Post-Grad in Educational Policy Studies, Post-Grad Diploma in Management (M&E), Master’s in Education, Master’s in Management (Public Policy), and a Higher Certificate in Finance. She is active in various national educational structures and the International Federation of Teaching Regulatory Authorities. Linkedin

Global Strategist, Speaker & Disruptor

Abdullah Verachia is a renowned global speaker, advisor, practice strategist, and innovator, known for integrating practice, education, insight, empathy, and experience to deliver significant value at all levels. He has held senior executive and board positions, developed competitive strategies for major companies and governments, lectured at top business schools worldwide, and built successful companies. His notable achievements include being selected as one of South Africa’s Brightest Young Minds, receiving the Harvard Business School Dean’s Scholarship for leadership and innovation, winning the GIBS Excellence in Teaching Award for executive education from 2019 to 2021, earning the 15-year Excellence Award for his contributions to the Model United Nations, and being made an honorary member of the Golden Key International Honour Society. Linkedin

Chief Executive Officer, Centre for Mental Wellness and Leadership

Nomfundo Mogapi is the Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Mental Wellness and Leadership (CMWL) and a trained clinical psychologist with over 22 years of experience in the mental health and psychosocial sector. Previously, she served as the Executive Director at the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR), Head of Psychosocial Interventions at CSVR, and Director of the South African Institute for Traumatic Stress (SAITS). Mogapi specialises in integrating psychosocial expertise into policies and programs related to leadership, human rights, peacebuilding, governance, democracy, and transitional justice. Her work has influenced policies such as the African Union Transitional Justice Policy and includes providing capacity-building to leaders and managers in the health and education sectors. Linkedin

Chief Imagination Officer, Living Maths

Steve is the Chief Imagination Officer of the STEAM-based NGO, Living Maths. He teaches a few thousand students weekly, around the world. He feels that it is his destiny to spread the joy of mathematics, science, space, engineering, edtech, numbers, problem-solving and creative thinking to anyone willing to listen and even those who are not. He is a 2020 recipient of the Global Teacher Award, two-times TEDx speaker, Kahoot Ambassador and verified educator, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, Executive Member of the Global Education Network, Space Foundation’s International Teacher Liaison, Head of PR for ASTEMI, the outreach officer for the annual Humans to the Moon and Mars Summit, Coordinator of one of the world’s largest maths Olympiads, chief organiser of the Annual Living Maths Space Tour and one of only 2 Skype Master Teachers in South Africa. Linkedin

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, The UnLearners

Known to her clients as “The UnLearning Lady,” Zanele Njapha is a global authority on applying unlearning principles to help top organisations build cultures where change is met with excitement rather than frustration. As the CEO of The UnLearners, Zanele is an award-winning businesswoman and a Forbes contributor on navigating organisational change. She is also a certified neuro coach for transformative leaders and businesses, chair of The UnLearning Children Foundation, and an award-winning TEDx speaker. Additionally, Zanele serves as faculty at Duke Corporate Education and hosts The UnLearners Podcast. Her dynamic and innovative approach not only surpasses client expectations but also effectively challenges entrenched practices, delivering meaningful and measurable results for organisations. Linkedin

Chief Executive Officer, Worldwide Institute of Leadership & Development

Professor Mazwe Majola is a prolific leadership authority with over three decades of experience in the field. An academic with the title of Associate Professor of Leadership and Management, his expertise extends far beyond the classroom. He’s a published author, a sought-after speaker, and a consultant who brings his knowledge to organisations of all kinds. Majola is also a coach, strategist, and analyst, offering a comprehensive understanding of leadership, transformation, and personal mastery. His passion for empowering others is evident in the various organisations he has founded. The Worldwide Institute of Leadership and Development (WILD) focuses on cultivating world-class leaders, while Umnotho Wamazwe Consulting provides consulting services. Further demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Majola established Country Publishers, a self-publishing company that empowers authors to share their voices. Linkedin

Life Sciences and Natural Sciences Educator, Protea Heights Academy

Dr Mariëtte Wheeler, a marine biologist and qualified teacher, completed her PhD at the University of Cape Town on the effects of human disturbance on seabirds and seals at sub-Antarctic Marion Island, where she conducted fieldwork in 2004/2005 and 2013/2014. After earning a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with distinction in 2015, she began teaching at Protea Heights Academy in 2016 and briefly taught at Sterkspruit Christian Private School in 2018 before returning to Protea Heights Academy. There, she advocated for the school to pilot Marine Sciences in 2020, contributing to its development and coordination. Dr Wheeler also records monthly broadcasts for Radio Pulpit with Janine van Niekerk. Recognised for her excellence, she was named the Department of Basic Education E3’s National Best Teacher in 2021 and was a Top 10 finalist for the 2023 Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize. In April 2024, she began her role as Deputy Chief Education Specialist for Marine Sciences and Agricultural Subjects at the Western Cape Education Department. Linkedin

Executive: Product and Services, Maskew Miller Learning

Dr Benadette Aineamani is the Executive of Product and Services. She holds a PhD in Mathematics and Mathematics Education from the University of the Witwatersrand, she is a seasoned educator, passionate leader, and strategic thinker in the global education sector. Her doctoral research focused on the critical role teachers play in developing learners’ mathematical discourse and understanding. Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Dr Aineamani is dedicated to developing textbooks, resources, and services grounded in robust pedagogical frameworks, ensuring inclusive and high-quality learning opportunities for students across South Africa. Linkedin

Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Maskew Miller Learning

Lize Monametsi is the Chief Innovation and Technology Executive at Maskew Miller Learning, and she leads the charge in digital product development and innovations at the company. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education and a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.), specialising in Educational Administration, Planning, and Social Policy. Her academic work delved deeply into the role of South African teacher development policy, particularly in fostering professional learning communities in schools. Lize has led the launch of successful software products to market across industries and is a prolific writer on custom software development. Her unwavering passion for developing digital solutions is instrumental in advancing Maskew Miller Learning’s mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education for all. Linkedin

Group Executive Corporate & Public Sector, Maskew Miller Learning

Ruth Shogoe is the Group Executive: Corporate and Public Sector at Maskew Miller Learning. An economist by profession, Ruth combines her strong people-centric and commercial acumen to build strategic industry partnerships that drive mutual growth and innovation. She holds a BCom in Economics and Econometrics, an MBA, and an LSE certificate in International Relations & Politics. Ruth is also a Certified Executive Coach and is PROSCI Change Management Certified. Ruth is very passionate about paying it forward and does not believe in being self-made. She strives to make a difference one person at a time and is intentional about mentoring youth in shaping the future of our country. She is an Alan Gray Orbis Foundation mentor and serves on the Board as a Non-Executive Director. Linkedin

Sapa National Conference 2024 Master of Ceremonies | Managing Member, The Motivation Company

Hector Motivator is a dynamic and engaging MC and radio personality with a proven track record of captivating audiences. From his early days as a campus radio DJ to his successful career on major radio stations, Hector has consistently delivered exceptional performances. Known for his infectious energy and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, he has hosted a wide range of events, including prestigious government and corporate functions. His experience as the resident MC at the Ekurhuleni Comes Alive Jazz Concerts, where he shared the stage with renowned artists, has solidified his reputation as a top-tier MC. Whether you’re looking for an energetic host to energise your corporate event or a charismatic MC to create a memorable atmosphere at your wedding, Hector Motivator is the perfect choice. Linkedin

Management Consultant, Motivational Speaker and Life Coach

Linda is an Electrical Engineer turned Management Consultant, motivational speaker, team-builder, trainer, facilitator, author, program director, and life coach with strong skills in personal, organisational, and client relationship management. With over 12 years of experience at Transnet, Eskom, Microelettrica, and Afrox, he later founded Rise Up and Do It Business Enterprise, accredited by Services Seta. Passionate about developing people across various sectors, Linda partners with clients to deliver effective solutions and outstanding project execution. His achievements include notable TV and radio contributions, and his major clientele spans numerous prominent organisations and municipalities. Linda’s presentations inspire audiences to lead through crises, embrace change, rebound from failure, set goals, and make a difference. Linkedin

National President, South African Principals Association

Grant Butler, the National President of the South African Principals’ Association (SAPA) and Headmaster of Grey Boys’ Primary School in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, is a highly experienced educator with 30 years in the field. Born and raised in Port Elizabeth, Grant’s extensive educational background includes a Diploma in Education, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and a Diploma in Theology. Known for his award-winning public speaking skills, he has explored educational trends globally and recently participated in the International Convention of Principals in Finland. As a leader, he excels in managing diversity and integrating ICT and EdTech in schools. He is dedicated to values-centred education, thriving in dynamic environments, and is committed to developing school management and leadership through his involvement in SAPA. Linkedin

Gauteng President, South Africa Principals Association

Julia Hlahle is a distinguished educator and visionary leader. As Principal of Moriting Primary School since 2009, she has cultivated a thriving learning environment renowned for academic excellence and holistic development. A champion of 4IR, she inspires both students and staff to reach their full potential. Her exceptional leadership is recognised through numerous accolades, including the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award and the Provincial Excellence in Primary School Leadership Award. Beyond her school, Julia serves as SAPA Gauteng President, advocating for educational improvement and mentoring aspiring leaders. Her unwavering dedication to fostering success in every student and educator has positioned her as a true trailblazer in the field.
Linkedin

Eastern Cape President, South African Principals Association (SAPA)

Simphiwe Lukasi, the Principal of BJ Mnyanda Public Primary School in the Nelson Mandela District in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, has been a leader in education since 1994, serving as a principal for 19 years and in his current role since 2014. As President of the South African Principals’ Association (SAPA) for the Eastern Cape, Lukasi is renowned for his expertise in strategic planning, curriculum management, and school governance. His leadership focuses on improving academic outcomes and fostering a supportive environment, working closely with educators, learners, and the School Governing Body (SGB). Recognised for his achievements, Lukasi was named Best Principal in Leadership of the Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL) Programme in 2013 by the Eastern Cape Department of Education and won the prestigious Kadar Asmal Award in 2021 as a National Teaching Award (NTA) finalist. Linkedin

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