Meet Our Team

Melanie Taddeo-Nxumalo is the visionary founder of Connect 4 Life, a non-profit organization dedicated to skill development for individuals of all abilities. With a background as a special education teacher Melanie has spent over twenty years empowering students with diverse needs, ensuring they have the tools and support to thrive both in and out of the classroom. A passionate advocate for inclusion, Melanie believes that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves access to opportunities that enable personal and professional growth. This unwavering commitment to inclusion and equity drives Melanie to lead Connect 4 Life in creating programs that break down barriers and open doors for all members of the community.

Mark, a single father in his 50s, has overcome tremendous adversity following a car accident that left him a quadriplegic. Struggling with severe depression and isolation, Mark found renewed purpose through Connect 4 Life’s Broadcast Training Program. This opportunity enabled him to support his daughter’s education and provide for his son, who has a hearing impairment. Mark’s engagement with Connect 4 Life began when he graduated from its first “An Accessible Voice in Broadcasting” course in 2015. He later took on leadership roles as the Executive Director and now serves as the Accessibility and Disability Director. His work with Connect 4 Life South Africa, including contributions to programs like Connect 4 Wellness and Skills4Life, reflects his journey from isolation to advocacy. Mark’s dedication and resilience continue to inspire others and showcase the impact of the charity’s mission in South Africa.

Guerdah Felix is a connector, an Active Listener, a visionary, a Spirit-Led communicator, and a Distinguished Toastmaster. Author of the upcoming book, “And The Whole World Stopped”. Knowledge and Experience in: Languages,
Psychology, Deep Observation Skills, Inclusion and Diversity Specialist with emphasis on belonging, Enquiring Questions, Mental Health, and a Former Host to people from diverse cultures. Guerdah’s expertise lies in Spiritual Life Coaching, specializing in conscious listening.

Buyisiwe Mabuya is the Director of the Transformation Directorate at the Gauteng Department of Education, with over 30 years of experience. She began her career teaching Physical Science and Mathematics, and advanced through roles as a subject advisor, district director, and leader in psychosocial and extracurricular programs for learners. Currently, she oversees Disability, Gender, and Employment Equity, focusing on policy development and supporting vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities, women, the LGBTIQA+ community, and survivors of gender-based violence.

Millie Viljeon is the Deputy Director at the Transformation Directorate of the Gauteng Department of Education’s head office, bringing over 30 years of experience in education. Her career has spanned curriculum development, educator training, and policy formulation. As Deputy Director, she focuses on advancing equity and inclusivity, advocating for vulnerable groups including individuals with disabilities, the LGBTIQA+ community, and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide. Millie has found her niche in driving transformative change within education and is dedicated to fostering a supportive and equitable environment.

Samantha Daniels is a dedicated advocate for inclusion, residing in Cape Town, Western Cape. A mother of three, she brings both lived and professional experiences in working with individuals of all abilities. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Inclusive Education, Samantha has spent 15 years as an educator at Athlone School for the Blind, a special needs school in the Western Cape. She is deeply committed to promoting inclusive practices and has held leadership roles in various organizations, including the South African Blind Youth Organization and Retina South Africa. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Philosophy in Disability Studies at the University of Cape Town, her mission is to transform perceptions of disability, championing a view of “differently abled” to foster a more inclusive society.

Carol Mashaphu holds a National Diploma in Office Management and Technology from Tshwane University of Technology, along with a certification in Environmental Science Foundation. With six years of experience in fundraising for non-profit organizations, she is committed to leveraging her skills to drive impactful initiatives. Carol is also dedicated to promoting inclusion and diversity in all aspects of her work, ensuring that varied perspectives are represented and valued.