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In the heart of Pondoland, amidst the rolling hills and close-knit communities, one man’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Siyabonga Mabunda, a 31-year-old native of KwaSomopho village in Empangeni, Kwa-Zulu Natal, is not only the pride of his community but a driving force for positive change on a larger scale.
Raised by his father after losing his mother at a young age, Siyabonga’s upbringing instilled in him a deep respect for tradition, a connection to nature, and a profound belief in community and collectivism. These values laid the foundation for his remarkable career path, where he has dedicated himself to addressing social injustices and inequalities through community development and public policy.
My interest in community development was sparked by my desire to make a positive impact in previously disadvantaged communities,” Siyabonga explains. “I wanted to be part of a group of professionals dedicated to making positive changes in society.
His journey began with a strong passion for politics and involvement in student governance, where he gained insight into the intricacies of policy-making and implementation. Armed with this knowledge and driven by a desire to influence community development policies, Siyabonga pursued a path that combined his interests in community development and public policy.
“Pursuing a PhD has always been a personal goal for me,” he shares. “My father instilled in me the belief that education is something no one can take away, and it opens many doors for the future. I wanted to make him proud.”
Siyabonga’s educational journey, which includes a Master’s in Public Administration, Honours and BA degrees in Development Studies, and a Certificate in Strategic Planning and Management, equipped him with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage effectively in community development activities. Through his seven years of service in the Department of Social Development, Siyabonga has spearheaded various initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities.
Among his most rewarding experiences are his leadership role in the Community Nutrition and Development Centre (CNDC), where he provides support to those experiencing homelessness, poverty, and hunger. Additionally, his involvement in the Provincial Youth Camp Coordination team and Umzimvubu-Tsitsikama Catchment Forum reflects his commitment to empowering young people and advocating for community needs.
Growing up in a marginalized community gave me firsthand experience of the challenges faced by these communities,” Siyabonga reflects. “It shaped my perspective on what issues are most important to address in community development and public policy.
Looking to the future, Siyabonga sees himself completing his PhD in Public Policy and leading professionals in the public sector who are passionate about developing policies that promote social justice, equity, and community well-being.
As Siyabonga Mabunda continues to champion the cause of community development and public policy, his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and collective action in creating a brighter future for all.
