Team
SIMPHIWE MASIZA
CEO
Mr Simphiwe Masiza is an entrepreneur, business leader and the CEO of Empowaworx Group. Masiza holds qualifications from WITS and GIBS, amongst other institutions. He is qualified in project management, strategy, organizational development, organizational management, event management, reputation management, business management, governance and executive leadership. He is the founder and passionate leader of Empowaworx.
DUMISILE LE ROUX
ACTING GM & EMPOWAYOUTH LEAD
Dumisile Le Roux is the Acting General Manager of Empowaworx and Head of EmpowaYouth, as well as a Working Group Member of the BRICS Youth Council. With over 12 years of experience in youth empowerment, she has made significant impacts locally and globally. At EmpowaYouth, Dumisile leads an initiative that provide opportunities such as, jobs,mentorship,funding and growth opportunities to township youth in South Africa. Her previous roles include PR, Social Media Management, Events Manager & Communications Director. Dumisile’s visionary leadership and commitment to positive change make her a true champion for young people everywhere.
JADE COBBLEDICK
Executive Personal Assistant
With extensive experience in executive support and office management, Jade Cobbledick plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless operations at Empowaworx. As the Executive Personal Assistant to both the CEO and AGM, Jade excels in managing complex schedules, coordinating high-level meetings, and facilitating strategic initiatives. Additionally, as the Office Manager, she oversees daily office functions, ensuring a productive and efficient work environment. Jade’s dedication to excellence and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to the organisation.
ZAZINI MOLO
THE SPEAKERS FIRM LEAD
As the Lead of The Speakers Firm and a seasoned speaker, Zazini orchestrates narratives that resonate with power and purpose. She also spearheads Special Projects within Empowaworx, and is intricately involved in the planning and execution of transformational streams, showcasing her expertise in project administration, media engagements, and sponsorship management. Her strategic prowess in relationship building and thought leadership sets her apart in the industry.
SIBONGILE GANGXA
Special Projects & Media Relations Lead
Sibongile is a seasoned media professional with a Bachelor’s in Law and Politics and an Honours in Public Policy. Her ten-year career in commercial radio has equipped her with a unique ability to craft compelling narratives that connect brands with audiences. Passionate about development, she infuses her creative work with a strong social impact focus.
Kirsten Alexander
SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
With over 25 years of experience as a communications and marketing specialist, Kirsten is a highly accomplished creative strategist. She has successfully conceptualised and executed numerous creative campaigns, and is a skilled ghostwriter and writing coach. Passionate about making a tangible impact, Kirsten plays a pivotal role at Empowaworx, driving strategy and content creation with a focus on creating meaningful change.
RENARD VAN BLERK
Marketing and Sponsorship Sales Specialist
As a dynamic and results-driven marketing professional, I leverage my passion for innovation and creativity to drive brand awareness and engagement. With a proven track record of developing and executing strategic marketing campaigns, I excel in partnerships, digital ad management, content creation, and social media management. With experience in leading high-profile events and driving brand visibility, I bring a unique combination of skills and expertise to any organization
MBALI MAVUSO
EVENT MANAGER
Mbali is an events coordinator with over 10 years' experience.
Mbali's role at EmpowaWorx is events lead for EmpowaWomen, EmpowaMen and EmpowaYouth Industry summits.
Jessey Matlou
EVENTS AND LEADERSHIP LEAD
Jessey Matlou is an events specialist and strategist with over 15 years' experience. Jessey’s role at Empowaworx is Speaker's Management and Project Coordination.
NONO SHABANGU
EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIP LEAD
Nono is an events manager with a marketing background held in various organisations in her 15 years work experience. Nono's role at Empowaworx is Events & Partner Lead for EmpowaYouth Weekends which is a product of EmpowaYouth Transformation Week.
NEO MATHEBE
TALENT MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Neo has 12 years' experience in administration, he also has 12 years' experience in the aviation industry and 5 years' experience in events management. Neo’s role at Empowaworx is talent management coordination, social media content and marketing for The Speakers Firm.
RETHA VENTER
Bid & Project Administrator
Retha Venter is the Bid Administrator/Manager at Empowaworx. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in project management, Retha is a seasoned tender and bid specialist. She plays a pivotal role at Empowaworx, bringing a wealth of expertise to the team.
ANITA TIRKEY
EVENTS ADMINISTRATOR
Anita is a seasoned event management expert with a track record of orchestrating successful events. At Empowaworx, Anita serves as an event administrator, specializing in seamless speaker confirmation and event execution.
Oupa Setale
LEAD PUBLICIST
Oupa Setale is a publicist and Lead Activations at Empowaworx. Prior to his current role, Setale had an unconventional career trajectory, starting as a taxi driver before transitioning into the media industry. With over 19 years of experience in radio broadcasting, Setale has developed an extensive understanding of media communications, advertising, branding, events management, and communications. His early career includes notable positions such as Programme Manager at VUT FM and Station Manager at Sedibeng FM, where he gained valuable insights into the operational aspects of radio stations
KHANYISILE XAYIMPI
Public Relations and Media Administrator
Khanyisile Xayimpi is a dynamic Media and PR Administrator at Empowaworx, proving that great things come in small packages. Her infectious energy and creative flair are the driving force behind every project she undertakes. Passionate about the power of communication, Khanyisile is skilled at building strong relationships and achieving organisational goals. With a robust background at renowned media outlets such as CNBC Africa, Hot FM, UJ FM, and Zindela Advisory Services, she brings a wealth of experience in media relations, content creation, and project management to her role.
BONOLO PENI
Activations Co-ordinator
Bonolo is a dynamic and versatile professional with five years’ experience in the fast-paced world of film and television. Her multifaceted role as Assistant Director, Floor Manager, Creative Writer, and Content Producer has equipped her with a unique skill set and a deep understanding of the industry. Passionate about inspiring future generations, Bonolo also has a keen interest in STEM education and careers. Her solution-focused approach, coupled with a respectful and mindful demeanour, makes her a valuable asset to any team. A compelling blend of empathy and determination, she embodies the philosophy of leading with love while delivering exceptional results.
‘PASTOR MBHOBHO’
Activations Comedian
A renowned South African singer, composer, vocal coach, song writer and record producer. He has worked with the likes of Simphiwe Dana, Zulu Boy, Lira, Benjamin Dube and Themba Mkhiza, only to mention a few. Sizwe is an is a profound proformer on the activations team and is extemely passionate about spreading the message of economic empowerment through edutainment.
LEFA MASIZA
Logistics Lead
Lefa Masiza 's experience ranges from production to content creation through Parks Media, Sedibeng FM and YFM. Lefa has championed logistics and branding at EmpowaWorx for the past 8 years and continues to bring life to our events through his resilient energy.
THABISO MOHLOKI
Activations Coordinator
Thabiso's experience in research stems from his work with various local aid organizations. Through the EmpowaYouth Activations, he passionately drives the Youth to equip themselves with the tools needed to help them lead this country. Thabiso's role is reflected in branding, data capture and activation strategy.