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She/Her
Is a social justice advocate, community leader, and trauma counsellor based in Marikana, South Africa. With over 14 years of experience in community activism, her work sits at the intersection of social justice, community mobilisation, and economic empowerment. She is committed to addressing gender-based violence, supporting trauma-affected individuals, and creating sustainable livelihoods through community-driven initiatives. She holds a Grade 12 certificate and has completed training in Early Childhood Development (ECD). Her work focuses on leading grassroots interventions that respond to systemic inequality and everyday community needs. She coordinates gender-based violence awareness campaigns, provides trauma counselling, and facilitates skills development programmes in beadwork, sewing, and shoemaking. She also leads community gardening and food security initiatives that support vulnerable families and promote self-sufficiency. She specialises in translating lived community experiences into practical, locally grounded interventions that empower marginalised populations. Thumeka has been a leading voice for the Lonmin communities affected by the 2012 Marikana Massacre, advocating for justice, accountability, and sustained support for affected families. She has engaged national platforms, including SABC’s The Big Debate, to highlight ongoing social challenges, government inaction, and the links between poverty, unemployment, crime, and violence. Through her work, she continues to educate communities about their rights, safety, and pathways to social change. Her work is guided by a vision of a society where gender-based violence is addressed with urgency, where communities are safer and more equitable, and where justice, education, and opportunity enable sustainable development. She remains committed to amplifying marginalised voices and advancing healing and dignity in underserved communities.
