OUR LEADERSHIP

Meet the passionate leaders driving UGO's mission and creating positive environmental change across South Africa

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

Our executive leadership team brings together diverse expertise and shared passion for environmental conservation

Mr. Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni

Mr. Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni

Founder & Executive Chairman

Executive

Founder of Universal Greening Organisation (UGO) in 2014, Talifhani is a recognized climate change activist and Forbes 30 under 30 (2023) honoree in Sustainability. Under his leadership, UGO has made substantial impact on rural communities of South Africa, reaching over 5000 students and graduates since inception.

Driving sustainable change through youth empowerment and environmental action.

Key Achievements

  • Forbes 30 under 30 class of 2023 - Sustainability category
  • Graduate of International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC)
  • Recognized by National Department of Social Development as top nine youth contributor to development in South Africa (2019)

DIRECTORS

Our directors oversee key operational areas and ensure strategic alignment with our mission

Mr. Lindelani Donald Maraganedzha

Mr. Lindelani Donald Maraganedzha

Chief Executive Officer & Co-founder

Directors

Lindelani Donald Maraganedzha is the CEO and co-founder of Universal Greening Organisation (UGO), bringing over 8 years of leadership in environmental advocacy.

Naho wa I dzima madi, u do I wana yoṅwa (Even when opportunities are not presented, one can create chances for themselves to succeed)

Key Achievements

  • Winner of 2023 Mail & Guardian Youth South Africans - Rural Development Category
  • Recipient of Indalo Inclusive Award sponsored by Nedbank
  • Successfully expanded UGO's presence across South Africa
Mr. Zwivhuya Mulaudzi

Mr. Zwivhuya Mulaudzi

Executive Director & Chief Operating Officer

Directors

Zwivhuya oversees the operational execution of UGO's initiatives, ensuring effective project coordination and smooth collaboration across departments and stakeholders, while playing a key role in business development.

NON-EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

Our non-executive members provide valuable expertise and guidance to support UGO's mission

Ms. Vuledzani Pearly Madilonga

Ms. Vuledzani Pearly Madilonga

Non-Executive Member

Non-Executive

With over a decade of experience across public, private sector and NGO, Vuledzani is a seasoned professional dedicated to making a positive impact. She is actively involved in research about water quality and microplastics to contribute to a sustainable future.

Ms. Zizile Khumalo-Nyembe

Ms. Zizile Khumalo-Nyembe

Non-Executive Member

Non-Executive

Chairperson: Resources Mobilization Sub-Committee. Experienced in resource mobilization and strategic partnerships for sustainable development initiatives.

Sustainable development requires sustainable funding and strategic partnerships.

Key Achievements

  • Established UGO's resource mobilization framework
  • Secured major partnerships for environmental programs
  • Led successful fundraising campaigns
Ms. Vele Ndaza

Ms. Vele Ndaza

Independent Board Member

Non-Executive

Chairperson: Social and Ethics Sub-Committee. A dedicated professional with diverse experience in transformation, communications, community development, and youth empowerment. Passionate about people development and making a positive impact in communities.

Key Achievements

  • Successful implementation of various community projects in Vondo village
  • Established partnerships with organizations in Vhembe District
  • Career progression from intern to administrator in transformation role
Mr. Yanga Ngenga

Mr. Yanga Ngenga

Independent Board Member

Non-Executive

Chairperson: Finance and Administration Sub-Committee. Brings extensive expertise in financial management and organizational governance to UGO's board.

Sound financial management is the foundation of sustainable impact.

Key Achievements

  • Established UGO's financial management framework
  • Implemented transparent financial reporting systems
  • Led successful organizational governance reforms

OUR TEAM VALUES

The principles that guide our team culture and drive our collective success

🤝

Collaboration

We work together as a team, valuing diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving.

💡

Innovation

We embrace creative solutions and new approaches to environmental challenges.

🎯

Impact

We measure our success by the positive environmental change we create.

❤️

Passion

We are driven by our deep commitment to environmental conservation and youth empowerment.

JOIN OUR MISSION

Ready to make a difference? We're always looking for passionate individuals to join our mission.