Melanie Taddeo-Nxumalo
Founder
Melanie Taddeo-Nxumalo is the visionary founder of Connect 4 Life, 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 South Africa in creating programs that break down barriers and open doors for all members of the community.
Mark Brown
Accessibility and Disability Director
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, which enabled him to support his daughter’s education and provide for his son, who has a hearing impairment. Since graduating from the “An Accessible Voice in Broadcasting” course in 2015, Mark has taken on leadership roles, including Executive Director. He now serves as the Accessibility and Disability Director. His contributions to Connect 4 Life South Africa and programs such as Connect 4 Wellness and Skills4Life reflect his journey from isolation to advocacy. Mark’s dedication and resilience continue to inspire others, showcasing the impact of the organization’s mission in South Africa.
Guerdah Felix
Diversity and Inclusion Director
“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 Former Host to people from diverse cultures Guerdah’s expertise lies in Spiritual Life Coaching, specializing in conscious listening.”
Millie Viljoen
Education Director
Millie is the Deputy Director at the Transformation Directorate of the Gauteng Department of Education’s head office, with over 30 years of experience in education. Her career has included roles in curriculum development, educator training, and policy formulation. In her current role, she is focused on advancing equity and inclusivity, advocating for vulnerable groups such as individuals with disabilities, the LGBTIQA+ community, and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide. Millie is committed to driving transformative change within the education sector and is passionate about fostering a supportive and equitable environment.
Buyisiwe Mabuya
Administration Director
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 has since advanced through various roles, including subject advisor, district director, and leader in psychosocial and extracurricular programs for learners. Currently, Buyisiwe oversees Disability, Gender, and Employment Equity, focusing on policy development and supporting vulnerable groups such as individuals with disabilities, women, the LGBTIQA+ community, and survivors of gender-based violence.
Samantha Daniels
Director
Samantha Daniels is a dedicated advocate for inclusion, residing in Cape Town, Western Cape, and a mother of three. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education, she has spent 14 years as an educator at a special needs school. Samantha brings both lived and professional experience in working with individuals of all abilities. She has held leadership roles in organizations like 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, Samantha is committed to transforming perceptions of disability, promoting a view of “differently abled” to foster a more inclusive society.
Carol Mashaphu
Fundraising Director
Member Bio
Tebogo Aubrey Poopedi
Advocacy Lead
As the founder of Skills Village Radio, Mr TAP has built a powerful platform to amplify the voices of people with dissabilities. The station is the platform to impact discussions for people with disabilities, education, employment, and social issues. It plays an intergral role in uplifting the disabled community in South Africa.