Born and raised in the former KwaNdebele homeland of Tweefontein in Mpumalanga, South Africa, Ntombifuthi Khumalo has emerged as a powerful voice in youth empowerment, social innovation, and governance across Africa. Her journey, from a rural upbringing to becoming a Global Social Innovator and changemaker, is a living testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership.

As the founder of the Golden Finch Foundation, Ntombifuthi has led transformative programs tackling unemployment, skills development, and literacy. Among her most impactful initiatives is the Indigenous Spelling Bee Contest, which celebrates African languages and reconnects rural learners with their cultural heritage. Her foundation has raised over R750,000 for community programs, including training 40 unemployed youth in cellphone repair, hosting a career expo in finance for disadvantaged learners, and launching symposiums on governance, AI, and cybersecurity.

Her leadership extends beyond programs to policy. As a Board Member of Oceanic Movement International, she oversees governance strategies for a pan-African network of over 100 youth leaders. She also played a key role in establishing the first JCI Chapter in Mpumalanga, expanding civic leadership opportunities in rural South Africa.

Her early work with MIET Africa, UNICEF, and the Department of Education led to sanitation improvements in over 1,000 schools, distributing more than 4,000 hygiene kits and influencing national policy replicated across eight provinces.

Internationally, Ntombifuthi is a Mandela Washington Fellow (2023) and was later appointed Faculty Staff for the Fellowship at Drexel University. There, she mentored leaders from 23 African countries and taught civic engagement. Her global influence includes appearances at the World Economic Forum for Youth, Commonwealth Association of Youth Workers Conference, and JCI Africa & Middle East Conference. She’s been profiled by Inno8Her, featured on WURD Radio (USA) and South African media, and received commendations from both the U.S. Embassy and a Pennsylvania Senator.

Though she began her academic journey in ICT Software Development at Tshwane University of Technology, Ntombifuthi found her true calling in civic development. She has since earned qualifications in social entrepreneurship (GIBS), governance (IoDSA), and leadership (Common Purpose, UNICEF), making her a respected force in youth and community development.

Her recognitions include the Thembisile Hani Youth Development Award (2021), JCI Trailblazer Award, and being a TOYP Top 20 Outstanding Young South Africans Nominee.

Ntombifuthi Khumalo’s mission is clear: to unlock Africa’s leadership potential from the grassroots up. Through her work, she’s building a legacy of inclusion, empowerment, and inspired change, proving that even from the humblest beginnings, greatness can rise.