At TNF, we’re more than a team — we’re a family made up of diverse individuals from all walks of life. Whether we’re sharing a meal during our monthly team lunches or catching up during our weekly check-in meetings, we cherish every opportunity to connect, collaborate, and care for one another.
One of our favourite icebreakers is celebrating something we appreciate about our teammates. For the longest time, Shalane was known for giving the best hugs… until Milisa, our MERL Manager, came along and gave her a run for her money! (It’s still a close contest — the team remains divided!)
But beyond warm embraces, Shalane embodies something far greater — the true spirit of servant leadership.
Co-founding the Trevor Noah Foundation in 2018 alongside our Chairman, Trevor Noah, Shalane has been quietly steering our mission from New York ever since. With humility and grace, she’s helped shape TNF into a space where dignity, access, and justice aren’t just guiding principles — they are the standard.
In the spirit of Nelson Mandela Month, we pause to honour Shalane — our founding Managing Director, board member, and the heart behind our work.
A Leader Who Listens and Leads with Heart
Shalane is not one for titles or fanfare. But what she is, is intentional, consistent, and thoughtful. Her approach to leadership mirrors how she parents — with presence, intuition, and care. She sees her role as one that creates an enabling environment for others to thrive — as individuals and as a collective.
She values inclusivity and invests deeply in building trust. She reminds us often that young people want to be heard, contribute meaningfully, and work in spaces that are free from toxicity. At TNF, we listen. We respect differing opinions. We celebrate our diversity of thought and lived experience. It’s not always easy, and we don’t always get it right — but we try because it matters.
A Moment That Captures Her Leadership
There was a moment during one of our toughest planning seasons in the first quarter of the year when everything felt overwhelming. Deadlines were mounting, the pace was intense, and the whole team was visibly exhausted. You could feel it — the energy was low, and we were all running on empty.
That’s when Shalane did what she does best — she paused everything. She called a team check-in, not to talk deliverables or timelines, but to ask the most human question: “How are you all doing — really?“
It wasn’t about pushing through or finding quick wins. She encouraged us to take a step back, to breathe, and to remind ourselves that it’s okay to rest, that we can’t pour from an empty cup, and that looking after ourselves is part of the work.
In that moment, it was clear: Shalane leads with heart. She saw us, met us where we were, and reminded us that while the work is important, our well-being comes first.
A Few Things You Should Know About Shalane:
- She gives the best hugs (well… second-best, after Milisa!)
- She listens with presence and empathy
- She leads with heart, always
This Mandela Month, we proudly celebrate Shalane as our Employee and Leader of the Month — not because she seeks recognition, but because she embodies it.
Thank you, Shalane, for your hugs, your heart, and your unwavering belief in young people’s power.
As we honour Shalane this Mandela Month, we’re reminded that leadership grounded in empathy, service, and community echoes Madiba’s legacy. We also invite you to reflect: Who are the servant leaders in your life? And how can you lead with a little more heart today?
