Founder and Managing Director
Eed founded Heroes Academy in an effort to drive positive social changes in communities plagued with crimes relating to Gender Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa. She believes that early childhood development programmes which focus on the educational mentoring of boys and young men is the most effective way to create positive change, while lowering the country’s alarming GBV statistics. She obtained her Master’s degree in Hypermedia from the University of Westminster in the UK. She has been running her own business for over 25 years, and lives with her family in Cape Town.
Director of Operations
Kolping Mbumba, a published author, comedy writer, and community developer, was raised in the townships of Nyanga and Philippi, where he witnessed firsthand the damaging effects of gang violence, drug abuse, and gender-based violence. His experiences motivated him to live a purposeful life, dedicated to making a positive impact in disadvantaged communities and inspiring hope. Kolping is committed to the improvement and advancement of young people and the transformation of their communities. He has devoted his life to mentoring, guiding, and equipping young men in South Africa, empowering them to take charge of their lives and recognize the good within themselves. According to Kolping, the future belongs to the youth, and it is essential to prepare them well for it.
Kolping joined Heroes because he was impressed by its distinctive approach to character building and mentoring young boys who lack positive male role models in their lives and are exposed to destructive and abusive masculinity from an early age. He is excited by the prospect of changing the narrative for the next generation of South African men, guiding them towards being more compassionate, tolerant, and dignified.
Head of Administration
My name is Sivuyile Makatesi. I have various roles: son, brother, and father to my two-year-old daughter. My academic background includes Sociology and Political Studies from the University of the Western Cape. During my time there, I initiated an entrepreneurship society aimed at supporting fellow students in their entrepreneurial endeavours.
In 2021, I joined Heroes Academy SA with a strong conviction in the necessity of our mission within society. My own life experiences underscored to me the neglect and lack of mentoring that many young boys face in assuming their roles and responsibilities. Recognising my proximity to this reality, I saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by offering mentorship and guidance to the boys in our programme, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in life.
Head of Emergency Response Team
I am Siyabonga Ntozini, 32 years old, residing in Khayelitsha, a township in Cape Town known for its challenges with crime and drug abuse. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of the Western Cape and an Honours Degree in Development Studies. I also did research work with the Volvo Research and Educational Foundation, in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape and Durham University, UK, focused on mobility and walking within Cape Town townships.
I am deeply passionate about community development and believe in driving positive change within townships. Road running is a personal passion of mine, which serves as a tool for physical fitness and to maintain a positive mindset. Discovering Heroes Academy of South Africa in 2021 was a pivotal moment for me. I was drawn to the programme's mission of creating safe spaces where young boys from similar backgrounds as mine could learn skills and strategies of how to become good men. This opportunity allowed me to reshape the narrative of what it means to be a good man, compared to the norms I grew up with, and to actively contribute towards solutions to many social issues that affect young men in our communities.
Social Worker
Raised in Nyanga, Cape Town, Mbuyisi developed a deep appreciation for the resilience of local communities and the importance of empowering young people from an early age. He holds an Honours Degree in Social Work from the University of Cape Town and joined Heroes Academy with a passion for supporting young people through compassionate, evidence-based practice. As the organisation's Social Worker, he plays an important role in supporting participants and their families, helping them navigate personal, social, and developmental challenges. Drawing on his experience across a range of community development initiatives, Mbuyisi works closely with learners, schools, families, and community partners to build trusting relationships and create supportive environments where young people feel valued, develop resilience, and grow into confident, responsible young men.
Admin Assistant
Sive plays a key role in Heroes Academy’s daily operations as our Administrative Assistant. He also serves as a committed facilitator, mentoring boys through values-based programs that foster character, leadership, and discipline. Since joining the team over three years ago, Sive has brought a strong mix of organizational skill and heartfelt dedication to youth development. He came to the Academy with a clear sense of purpose: to help guide young boys toward becoming confident, grounded young men. Outside of his work with the Academy, Sive is completing his Master’s degree at Stellenbosch University. His research explores the industrial hemp value chain and its potential for sustainable development in South Africa. Through both his academic and professional efforts, he continues to be a role model and a driver of positive change in his community.
Production Coordinator
Kwanele Mvundlela is a passionate photographer and visual storyteller with over six years of experience in photography and documentary filmmaking. A graduate of Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking, his student work was featured at the Encounters International Documentary Film Festival. He was named Camera Operator of the Year at Cape Town TV, where he traveled across South Africa capturing powerful stories. Kwanele has showcased his photography in exhibitions at Artscape and the Isivivana Arts Centre. Through his lens, he explores themes of identity, society, fashion, and the human experience—driven by a vision to spark meaningful dialogue and, ultimately, to become an inspiring father while documenting the world’s diversity.
Marketing and Facilitator
Originally from The Netherlands, Johannes relocated to Cape Town, South Africa in 2022. He joined the Heroes Academy of South Africa the following year, providing Marketing and Fundraising support to the Head Office Team. Through working with the organisation, Johannes developed a strong interest in working directly with the organisation’s participants and has since become a Workshop Facilitator. Johannes was drawn to the Heroes Academy of South Africa through a strong desire to give back to disadvantaged communities in his new home and because he strongly believes that educating and guiding our youth is the key to shaping a better future for all. He is honoured to play his role in reducing GBV and toxic masculinity in South Africa.
Viwe Bonga is a dedicated youth development professional with over 8 years of experience working with NGOs, schools, and community organizations. He has a proven track record of leading and mentoring impactful youth programs, driven by a deep passion for education, empowerment, and community upliftment. Viwe recently joined Heroes Academy as an academic tutor, where he supports Grade 10 and 11 learners in Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, and English. In addition to his work at Heroes Academy, he leads a team of volunteer tutors who work with Grade 8 and 9 learners, helping to build a strong foundation for their academic success.
Viwe leads our team of volunteer tutors in the academic support programme.
Our primary focus areas are Mathematics (both Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy) and English.
We are always looking to expand our team with passionate and committed volunteer tutors. If you are interested in joining us, please submit your CV for consideration.
Vuyo Lawson Kovu holds a Bachelor of Science degree with Honours in Applied Geology and has experience in Geographic Information Systems. He is also a registered music composer and an emerging music producer.
Born in Alice in the Eastern Cape and raised in Samora Machel, he remained committed to his development by participating in educational initiatives such as debating, Model United Nations, and academic competitions. Vuyo has supported his community through private tutoring and is passionate about contributing to the academic and personal growth of young people.
Buhlali Ngcokomfi is a Mathematics and Physical Science tutor with over 10 years of experience working with learners across various schools and non-profit organisations. Originally from Samora Machel in the Cape Flats, he is passionate about creating supportive learning environments where young people feel safe, confident, and able to grow.
He joined Heroes Academy to provide academic support in Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, and English. Through his work, Buhlali has seen the impact that guidance and encouragement can have on learners, and he is committed to helping them reach their full potential.
Kayleigh is a passionate and experienced tutor who loves working with children and creating a positive, engaging learning environment. With a strong belief in the power of education, he is committed to helping each student grow in confidence and achieve their academic goals. Kayleigh enjoys connecting with people from all backgrounds and brings warmth, patience, and enthusiasm to every lesson he teaches.
