Eleanor Govender is a graduate of Conference, Incentive, and Events Management, and an experienced market specialist in South Africa’s leisure, travel, and tourism industry. She is passionate about sharing the beauty of this country with all who dream of travelling it, getting to know its people, and experiencing its eclectic cultural diversity. 

“It has always been my passion to assist and help those in need from previously disadvantaged communities. I believe in paying it forward because everyone deserves the right to quality education and opportunities. I joined the Africa Wetu Foundation because I believe in the vision and mission of the Foundation, and the future of the next generation.”

Viyassen Govender graduated from Durban’s University of Technology with a Diploma in Graphic Design. After two years of living and working on Robben Island, he worked in advertising and at some of Cape Town’s leading design houses. His various roles throughout the years as a layout artist, creative designer, and art director culminated in him establishing and managing Vegiah Design. He has conceptualized and brought to life unique designs for many South African companies, as well as international organizations. 
 

“I believe in community upliftment and assistance. Besides my role as a director of the Africa Wetu Foundation, I’m also a trustee of the Bambini Dream Foundation, and I share my love for cooking as a volunteer and sponsor at the Ladles of Love soup kitchen in Belhar.”

Vanessa Jackson is a lecturer at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. After completing her BSc in Biochemistry at the University of the Western Cape, she continued to further her studies, completing her Doctorate in Biomedical Technology in 2004. 

​

Her specializations furthermore include Environmental Microbiology. As the head of her department, she has published numerous research papers in her areas of expertise. She continues to inspire with her engaging teaching style – sharing her knowledge and helping students achieve their academic goals. 

​

“When I was approached by the Africa Wetu Foundation to come on board as a director, I didn’t hesitate. I’m a first-hand witness to the struggles many South African students face: financial issues very often being at the core of their social struggles. If we can give a student an opportunity to access higher education, we can change the trajectory of their lives.”

Jacqueline Bibombe obtained her BA (Hons) degree from the University of the Western Cape and her MA in Marketing and Communications from the Rome Business School.

With specializations in German, French, and Organizational Communication, her passion for languages and linguistic expertise have afforded her professional opportunities in various industries: from tourism to education to the language service industry. She is also a qualified copy editor and considers investment in language skills to be one of the key components of professional development.

“As one of the directors of the Africa Wetu Foundation, I have the privilege to be part of a dynamic team of individuals who are driven to bring meaningful change in an area where we believe our society needs it most: education. By helping individuals access quality education, we can uplift families and entire communities.”