‘I think the Trevor Noah Foundation offers an opportunity to embark on a case study that can be replicated throughout the country. The New Nation School has many challenges but has been able to educate our most vulnerable youth. The partnership with the Trevor Noah Foundation will enable the school to reach great heights. I am excited to embark on this journey with the foundation as it is speaking to the most pertinent issues around access and agency.”
Onthatile started her career in the HIV/AIDS sector which was at the University of Pretoria during her studies. She realised then that even though her qualification was in International Studies, there is a great need to interrogate local communities before making an impact globally, and she is still on this journey. After completing her Bachelors in Political science, she interned for the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria for the Communities’ Delegation and Action Aid International which has helped her understand programmes at an international level, and how global influences impact on the grassroots efforts.
After gaining valuable experience at the Global Fund and Action Aid International, she joined the Gordon Institute for Business Science (GIBS), where she was the Coordinator for the Social Entrepreneurship Certificate Programme (SECP). This gave her great insights on how organisations can use hybrid models for better sustainability. Thereafter, Onthatile took on the role of Programme Manager at Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) where she managed two nationwide projects that were both aimed at training emerging artists on formalising their craft.
She’s spent years working in the youth-development space and has gained valuable insights on working with young people, helping them understand that they’re the expects of their own lived experience. Over the years, a big part of her job was to build confidence amongst young people so that they can be change makers in their communities.
Her experience and interests in the non-profit space speaks volumes. Her passion and drive to build better communities is incredible. Welcome to the TNF team, Onthatie! We are very honoured to have you.
