ABOUT UGO
Discover our story, mission, values, and meet the passionate team behind Universal Greening Organisation
OUR STORY
Founded in 2014, the Universal Greening Organisation (UGO) began as a simple student-led tree-planting initiative at the University of Venda and has grown into a powerful force for global environmental sustainability. What began as a simple act, planting a few trees at the University of Venda, was the spark of a larger vision: to transform our relationship with the planet and each other.
Born from urgency, UGO was founded to confront the defining challenges of our time: land degradation, climate collapse, food insecurity, ecological injustice, and the marginalization of youth voices in shaping the future. Our work is informed by indigenous knowledge, guided by science and executed with urgency.
Today, UGO has grown from that single symbolic tree into an ecosystem of impact: over 500,000 trees planted, 5,000+ youth directly impacted, 300+ schools reached, and 90+ communities served. We have evolved into a driving force in environmental conservation across all nine provinces of South Africa and beyond.
Key Milestones
Foundation
UGO was founded by Mr Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni at University of Venda
Fellowship Launch
Launched UGO Fellowship with 15 young changemakers
Historic Partnership
Signed MoU with SANBI - first youth-led organization partnership
International Expansion
Partnership with Tanzania's Success Hands Initiative
OUR MISSION
To inspire and empower communities to value nature and thrive sustainably, ensuring that no one is left behind
Our Mission
Through contribution to socio-economic and environmental initiatives that encourage participation across all demographics to build a society resilient to climate challenges.
Climate Change
Initiating climate action focusing on helping communities with adaptation, mitigation and resilience strategies to reduce the impact of climate induced disasters.
Biodiversity Management
Land use planning and management, strategic water sources and protected areas as key components for nature conservation.
Waste Management
Recycling of illegally dumped waste and illegal dumpsite conversion at source to ensure a culture of ownership and awareness.
Agriculture
Supporting SMMEs with training and inputs to ensure market penetration, focusing on household food gardens to enhance food security.
OUR VALUES
The principles that guide our work and shape our impact on the world
#UGOFAMILY Values
Our core values spell out UGOFAMILY - representing the principles that unite us and guide our mission.
Unity
We believe in working together as a team, supporting one another, and fostering a strong sense of community both internally and with external partners.
Growth
We are committed to continuous improvement and learning, both professionally and personally, to help our team reach its full potential.
Openness
We strive to create an inclusive and transparent environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
Flexibility
We embrace change and are adaptable to new circumstances, always seeking innovative solutions to meet the needs of our team, partners, and stakeholders.
Accountability
We hold ourselves accountable for our actions and decisions, and take ownership of our responsibilities.
Motivation
We are driven by passion and determination to excel, inspiring and empowering ourselves and others to achieve their goals.
Integrity
We conduct business with honesty, fairness, and ethical principles in all that we do.
Loyalty
We are committed to fostering long-lasting relationships with our team, stakeholders, and partners, built on trust and mutual respect.
Youthfulness
We foster a vibrant and dynamic work culture that encourages creativity, curiosity, and a fresh perspective in our approach to business.
OUR TEAM
Meet our Board of Directors and Top Executives leading UGO's mission across Africa and beyond
Mr. Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni
Founder & Executive Chairman
Founder of UGO and Forbes 30 under 30 (2023) honoree in Sustainability. Leading strategy direction and business development, with extensive experience in climate change activism and rural community development.
Mr. Lindelani Maraganedzha
Executive Director & CEO
CEO and co-founder with over 8 years of leadership in environmental advocacy. Winner of 2023 Mail & Guardian Youth South Africans - Rural Development Category.
Mr. Zwivhuya Mulaudzi
Executive Director & COO
Oversees operational execution of UGO's initiatives. Registered Certificated Scientist with SACNASP, with 10+ years experience across NGO, public and private sectors.
Ms. Vuledzani Pearly Madilonga
Non-Executive Member
Chairperson: Environmental Sustainability Sub-Committee. Master's in Environmental Science with expertise in water quality and microplastics research.
Ms. Vele Ndaza
Independent Board Member
Chairperson: Social and Ethics Sub-Committee. Transformation Administrator with diverse experience in community development and youth empowerment.
Mr. Yanga Ngenga
Independent Board Member
Chairperson: Finance and Administration Sub-Committee. Bringing expertise in financial management and organizational governance.
JOIN OUR MISSION
Ready to make a difference? We're always looking for passionate young people to join our mission and create positive environmental change.