About Us

Arlene Reddy joins the Funda Wande team as our Finance Manager. She is passionate about using financial expertise to strengthen organizations that create meaningful social impact, believing that financial management enables teams to focus on what matters most, making a difference in people’s lives. Integrity, collaboration, and accountability are values that guide her work and shape the way she builds relationships with colleagues and partners.

Arlene holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and brings more than 20 years of experience across a range of industries. Her professional background includes management accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and project management, giving her a strong foundation in supporting organizational growth through strategic financial planning and effective resource management.

Outside of work, Arlene enjoys exploring new recipes in the kitchen and discovering local restaurants and hidden culinary gems. She is also the proud mother of a spirited seven-year-old daughter, whose curiosity, energy, and laughter inspire her every day. Known for her warm smile and approachable nature, Arlene believes that kindness and positivity go a long way in creating a supportive and collaborative workplace.

Thoughtful, experienced, and solutions-focused, she brings both financial expertise and a people-first approach to the team. We are delighted to welcome her to the team and look forward to the knowledge, care, and dedication she will bring as we continue working towards improving learning outcomes for every child.

Mehnaaz Kamroodien-Abdulla is a dynamic Project Manager with expertise in Operations and Human Resources, known for driving efficiency and fostering employee engagement in fast-paced environments. With a proven track record of streamlining processes, optimizing workflows, and cultivating collaborative workplace cultures, she bridges the gap between operational excellence and people-centric leadership.

Skilled in project planning, resource allocation, and a wide range of HR functions, Mehnaaz has successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver high-impact projects on time and within budget. Her background in Human Resources enables her to align talent management strategies with organizational goals, supporting both business growth and employee satisfaction.

Certified in various leadership and HR management portfolios, Mehnaaz combines strategic vision with hands-on execution. Passionate about mentorship and workplace innovation, she actively champions initiatives that enhance productivity and promote employee well-being.

Outside of work, Mehnaaz enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and embracing the fresh air of life.

Thina Daniel is the IT Operations & Information Coordinator, responsible for the organisation’s technology operations, information systems, digital collaboration platforms, and broader strategic initiatives that enable effective and impactful ways of working.

With experience spanning technology, operations, and digital storytelling, Thina views technology not simply as a tool, but as a catalyst for learning, connection, innovation, and transformation. She is passionate about harnessing its potential to create opportunities, empower people, strengthen organisations, and drive meaningful, lasting impact.

She brings strong strategic planning capabilities and a deep understanding of how people, processes, and systems come together to create sustainable change. She is passionate about empowering women and communities and believes in fostering environments where individuals and teams can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. Outside of work, she finds joy in sharing and capturing stories, exploring new places, experimenting in the kitchen, and nurturing growth in all its forms.

“In an age of rapid technological change, our greatest advantage is not technology itself, but how we harness it to learn continuously, adapt confidently, and create lasting impact.”– Thina Daniel

Phoebe Sibomana is a skilled Office Administrator and Executive Assistant with extensive experience in executive support and organisational management. She holds an Honours Degree in Development Studies and is committed to continuous professional growth.

In 2024, she completed the Allan Gray Leadership Academy for New Managers programme through Stellenbosch University. She has also undertaken personal development training through MyGrow’s Emotional Intelligence course, as well as several Upskillist programmes, including a Diploma in Financial Planning.

With a solid background in the literacy-focused non-profit sector, Phoebe brings both passion and professionalism to her work. She is deeply committed to ensuring that all children have access to quality education, recognising it as a critical foundation for lifelong success.

Siphokazi is an experienced Project Administrator with over 14 years of professional experience spanning operations, administration, and sales. She joined Funda Wande in 2017 as a Project Administrator.

Siphokazi has worked in both the private and non-profit sectors, holding roles at respected organisations such as Grindrod Logistics, Nampak, the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention, and most recently at Jawitz Properties as a Property Consultant.

She is highly skilled in customer service, office administration, internal and external sales, and interpersonal communication. Known for her ability to engage effectively with clients at all levels, she consistently meets and exceeds performance targets.

With a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a commitment to learning, she brings reliability, adaptability, and a high level of professionalism to every role. Her passion lies in supporting teams to deliver impactful work and driving operational excellence.

Introducing Luyanda Thamsanqa Ndabeni, Office Reception Intern. Luyanda joins the team as our Operations Intern. Passionate about helping others, he is committed to continuous learning, personal growth, and making a positive contribution in every environment. With a people-centred approach and a willingness to learn, Luyanda values adaptability, collaboration, and creating welcoming experiences for others.

He holds an N6 Certificate in Business Management from the College of Cape Town (Crawford Campus), where he developed a strong foundation in business administration and workplace practices. Eager to grow professionally, he is excited to build new skills while supporting the day-to-day operations of the organization.

Outside of work, Luyanda enjoys expressing creativity through drawing and has a strong passion for music production. These interests provide opportunities to explore new ideas, develop creative skills, and continually challenge personal and professional growth.
Having grown up in Germiston, Philippi, and Vredenburg, while frequently visiting Mthatha, he has been exposed to diverse communities, cultures, and experiences. This has fostered adaptability, open-mindedness, and the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds. Curious, approachable, and eager to learn, he brings a positive attitude to the team and is committed to creating meaningful connections while supporting Funda Wande’s mission.