Our Team

Our Team

What Makes the Team Unique?

Our small team has a big heart and is committed to making a real difference in the lives of children. Through our advocacy work, support services, and community engagement initiatives, we strive to create a better tomorrow for those in need.
Group photo of the CIINDI staff team

departments

exco colour

EXco team

programme team

pROGRAMMES TEAM

The M&E team @ CINDI

M&e TEAM

Finance Team@ CINDI

FINANCE TEAM

membership team @ CINDI

MEMBERS TEAM

leadership & team

Esther Mungai, SI Director at CINDI
SI Director:
Esther Mungai
MER Officer, CINDI
MER Officer:
Sanele Bhengu
Programme Manager,
Programme Manager:
Zanele majozi
Programme Administrator, CINDI
Programme Adminstrator:
Nonjabulo Ndlela
Programme Officer, CINDI
Programme Officer:
Mary Bopape
Data Capturer, CINDI
Data Capturer:
Amanda Mkhize
Data Quality Officer, CINDI
Data quality Officer:
Victor Masindi
Bookkeeper, CINDI
Bookkeeper:
Ntombi Zuma
General Administrator, CINDI
General Admin:
Noma Mkhize
Finance
Finance Officer:
Lungani Nyawo
Finance Officer, CINDI
Finance Officer:
Zwakele Kunene
Finance Officer, CINDI
Finance Officer:
Sipho Ntombela
MER Coordinator,CINDI
MER Coordinator:
Sinenhlanhla Malinga
Senior MER Officer, CINDI
Senior MER Officer:
Sipho Fakude
MER Officer, CINDI
MER Officer:
Thabo Mokhele
Finance and Operations Manager,CINDI
Finance and Operations Manager:
Mzamo Sokhela
CEO at CINDI
Chief Exuctive Officer:
Rekha Nathoo
Stellar Zulu, Programme Director at CINDI
Programme Director:
Stellar Zulu
Nokuthula Mbhele, Cleaner at CINDI premisises
Cleaner:
Nokuthula Mbhele

CINDI BOARD

chairperson

Aruna Chetty Khan

Chairperson
LP

Leevani Pillay

Treasurer
LF

Lihle Finca

Board
PM

Prudence Masuku

Board
TN2

Thembelihle Ngcobo

Member Representative
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Esther Mungai, SI Director at CINDI

Esther Mungai is a wife, a mother and a grandmother of 2 boys. She holds a Masters degree
in Social Science (Community Development) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
She has over 20 years’ experience in the area of Monitoring and Evaluation of Development
Programmes. She is currently the Monitoring and Evaluation Director at Children In Distress
Network (CINDI). Esther has also worked with the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Provincial Treasury
as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Reporting Director of the Global Fund Project that
was implemented by the KZN Provincial Treasury from 2016-2019. Prior to this, Esther was
in charge of District M&E teams implementing CDC funded programme (SA SURE) in
uMzinyathi District. She has extensive experience in developing and maintaining
relationships at the community, district and provincial levels. Esther is passionate about
monitoring and evaluation of community development programmes, women and youth
empowerment programmes as well as children’s rights. One of the key driving factors of
Esther’s passion is to ensure that programme beneficiaries are at the centre of every
project. This enhances project ownership and ensures that effects of donor funded projects
are sustainable past the funded period.

Programme manager, CINDI

I believe life is about growing, evolving, and making every opportunity count. I'm naturally curious, people-oriented, and always looking for ways to learn, lead, and leave a positive impact. I enjoy meaningful conversations, building genuine relationships, and challenging myself to become better than I was yesterday.

As Programme Manager at CINDI, I have the privilege of leading initiatives that create meaningful change in communities. While I am passionate about the work I do, I believe my greatest strengths are my resilience, adaptability, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Above all, I'm a proud mom, a lifelong learner, and someone who believes success is measured not only by achievements, but by the lives we touch, the values we uphold, and the legacy we leave behind.

Programme Administrator, CINDI

Nonjabulo Ndlela is a Programme Administrator at Children in Distress (CINDI) Network, providing administrative and operational support to programme, MER, and finance teams. She has experience in programme coordination, procurement administration, data management, and meeting coordination, contributing to the effective delivery of community-based programmes. Nonjabulo holds a qualification in Human Resources Management and has completed several professional certifications in administration, customer service, digital literacy, and Receptionist. She is recognised for her strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering efficient and high-quality administrative support.

Outside of work, Nonjabulo enjoys cooking, spending quality time with her family, and embracing the quiet moments that allow her to recharge and continue growing both personally and professionally.

Programme Officer, CINDI

My name is Mary, and I am a Programme Officer. My role is to provide implementation support to all partners, drive the adoption of innovative strategies, and ensure compliance with organisational standards and requirements. I am passionate about supporting community programme success through effective coordination, continuous improvement, and maintaining high-quality service delivery.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time communicating with my family and nurturing meaningful relationships. I often refer to myself as "Merry Mary" because I am naturally cheerful and optimistic. Regardless of the challenges I may face, I strive to maintain a positive attitude and bring enthusiasm, resilience, and encouragement to those around me.

Data Quality Officer, CINDI

I am a Data Quality Officer with a passion for ensuring data accuracy, improving data quality, and using data to support informed decision-making. My career began at the Community Care Project, where I progressed from Data Capturer to Data Officer, gaining valuable experience in data management and analysis.

As a lifelong learner, I have a strong interest in technology, data analytics, and web development. I enjoy exploring innovative digital solutions that create meaningful impact and improve the way organizations serve their communities.

Beyond my professional work, I am a proud husband and father of two boys. I am passionate about disability advocacy and believe in building a more inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive. I am also an active member of the Fathers Matter Movement, promoting the importance of positive, present, and engaged fatherhood.

I believe that combining quality data, technology, and a commitment to service can help create stronger organizations and better outcomes for the communities they serve.

Bookkeeper, CINDI

Is a dedicated and detail-oriented Bookkeeper with advanced Diploma in Accounting and practical experience in finance, accounting, payroll support, reconciliations, VAT administration, and financial reporting. She has worked with non-profit organisations, supporting grant management, audit preparation, budgeting, and compliance with financial policies and procedures. Ntombifuthi is recognised for her strong analytical skills, accuracy, and ability to meet deadlines while maintaining high standards of financial integrity. She is passionate about continuous learning and delivering reliable financial support that contributes to organisational success. Outside of her professional career, Ntombifuthi enjoys running marathons during her spare time, demonstrating the discipline, resilience, and determination that she also

brings to her work.

General Administrator, CINDI

Noma works at the front desk as CINDI's receptionist, where she warmly welcomes visitors and manages the office telephone. She also coordinates with CINDI member organisations, using Network meetings as a platform to encourage collaboration, information sharing, and relationship building. Noma helps organise training opportunities that strengthen the skills of member organisations, enabling them to better serve their communities. She also supports awareness campaigns such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) initiatives and Blue Umbrella Day.

In addition, Noma is actively involved in the Singatha School Uniform Fund, where she coordinates donations of gifts and school uniforms for children in need. She also supports CINDI's Kinship Care Programme, assisting members and beneficiaries who are unable to access social grants because they do not have the required documentation.

Outside of work, Noma enjoys attending church programmes, spending quality time with her grandchildren, hiking 16 km trails, participating in 5 km races, going on game drives, and travelling with her ladies' group.

Finance Officer, CINDI

My name is Lungani Siyanda Nyawo. I hold a Diploma in Financial Management and a Diploma in Financial Accounting. I am also a member of the Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA).

I currently serve as a Finance Officer, where I am responsible for supporting sound financial management and ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures. My key responsibilities include assisting sub-partner organisations with financial reporting, maintaining accurate bookkeeping records, reviewing financial documentation, and providing guidance to improve financial accountability and reporting standards.

I am a dedicated finance professional with strong skills in financial reporting, bookkeeping, budgeting, financial record management, and compliance. I am committed to accuracy, integrity, and supporting organisations in achieving effective financial management.

Finance Officer, CINDI

Zwakele serves as a Finance Officer, providing financial and administrative support across multiple districts. His work includes budget tracking, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with organisational and donor requirements. He is committed to accountability, teamwork, and supporting impactful community programmes.

Outside of work, Zwakele values family life and enjoys spending time in his community. He has a strong interest in continuous personal development and maintaining a balanced, purposeful lifestyle.

Finance Officer, CINDI

Sipho works a Finance Officer as is better described  as All-Rounder given flexibility and ability to cover single handed various areas of work operations. Great focus lies with management of sub-recipients contracts, budgets, liquidation reports, assets management, procurement, fleet management, insurance profiles and claims administration, administration and audits supports.

MER Coordinator,CINDI

Sinenhlanhla Nomfundo Malinga is a dedicated Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Coordinator with extensive experience in designing, implementing, and strengthening monitoring systems for donor-funded health and social development programmes. She has expertise in data quality assurance, performance monitoring, programme evaluation, data analysis, and reporting, with a strong focus on improving programme performance and ensuring accountability.

Senior MER Officer, CINDI

Sipho Fakude is a dedicated Monitoring and Evaluation professional who holds an Advanced Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation with experience in data management, health information systems, and HIV/AIDS programmes. He has worked extensively in data collection, verification, analysis, and reporting, supporting evidence-based decision-making, and improving data quality within the health sector. His expertise includes the use of TIER.Net, CBIMS, DHIS, Excel, Pivot and Microsoft Office, with a strong commitment to strengthening health systems and achieving positive community health outcomes. When not at work Sipho enjoys spending time with his family and he is a big soccer fan supporting Kaizer Chiefs.

MER Officer, CINDI

I am a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officer with experience supporting the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of donor-funded programmes. I am seconded at eThekwini District, where I support two sub-partners that collectively account for approximately 52% of programme targets, while also providing monitoring and technical support to sub-partners in the Zululand District.

I am passionate about using data to strengthen programme performance, demonstrate impact, and support evidence-based decision-making. My responsibilities include managing programme data, conducting routine data quality assessments, tracking key performance indicators.

I have experience using the Community-Based Intervention Monitoring System (CBIMS) to ensure accurate data capture, analysis, and reporting while maintaining data integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with data management standards.

I work collaboratively with CINDI and sub-partner programme and M&E teams to strengthen monitoring systems, improve data management processes, build staff capacity on reporting tools and data quality.

Finance and Operations Manager,CINDI

Mzamo holds a Diploma in Accounting and a BCompt degree. He completed his articles and is registered with SAICA as an Associate General Accountant [AGA(SA)]. He has 15 years’ experience in the NGO sector, working across various programmes and projects, and currently serves as the Finance and Operations Manager at CINDI Network, where he has worked for seven years.

Mzamo is passionate about working with numbers and enjoys using Excel to create practical templates that simplify reporting and improve efficiency.

He is a born-again Christian who enjoys keeping fit through jogging and cycling. He also loves music and plays the keyboard.

CEO at CINDI

Rekha Nathoo brings over 25 years of experience in child rights, organizational leadership, and systems strengthening to her role as CEO of CINDI, where she has served since 2019. Known for her expertise in network leadership and systems thinking, she specializes in building trust, multi-sector partnerships, and collective impact across HIV, child protection, youth development, and advocacy sectors.

Rekha has led complex donor-funded programs and organizational transformation across international, national, and provincial levels, including serving on the board of an international child-focused alliance and contributing to South Africa's Children's Sector Technical Working Group. Grounded in participatory methodologies, she leads CINDI as a trusted convener—bringing communities, civil society, and government together to build sustainable systems where every child can thrive.

"Real change happens when people stop working in silos and start working with purpose. Leadership is about bringing the right people together to make that happen."

stellar zulu

Stellar Busisiwe Zulu is a South African professional with extensive experience in program management, particularly in HIV/AIDS and child welfare sectors, supported by a strong academic background in human resources, project management, and the arts. She is a mother to two daughters and has a grandson. Her more than two decades serving in the sector with a strong focus on issues affecting children, adolescents and young women has seen her hold various leadership roles and participate in research projects.

mambhele

Dedicated to serving CINDI since 2014, Nokuthula Mbhele ensures our facilities and outdoor grounds remain in pristine condition. She also provides essential support to the Membership team by preparing meeting spaces for events and gatherings. Dedicated and community-minded, Nokuthula balances her professional life with church involvement and quality family time with her son.