Celebrating: Gender Links' Staff Awards


Johannesburg, 19 March 2026: Gender Links recognises that every staff member has something unique to offer, that makes us an engaged and vibrant team. In 2026, we identified the essential attributes of a strong team. Staff voted anonymously for whom they felt best embodied each of these attributes at GL and the GL Cottages. For both GL and GL Cottages, staff also voted for the best al rounder in 2026. These are the results of the peer awards.

Nomthandazo Mankazana
Innovation
In recognition of your innovative thinking and strategic leadership, consistently generating creative solutions and partnerships that strengthen and advance the impact of Gender Links’ work.
All Rounder
Nomthandazo Mankazana exemplifies outstanding leadership, compassion, and innovation, consistently strengthening programmes, building partnerships, and inspiring communities through her dedication to Gender Links’ mission. Her ability to connect people, generate new ideas, and step into any role with resilience and heart makes her a true all-rounder and an invaluable member of the Gender Links family.

Zotonantenaina Razanadratefa
Versatility and Adapatability
In recognition of your exceptional versatility and adaptability, consistently stepping into multiple roles with dedication, creativity, and professionalism to support the success of Gender Links’ work.

Thakane Sello
Resource Mobilization
In recognition of your proactive leadership in mobilising resources, building strategic partnerships, and securing opportunities that strengthen the sustainability and impact of Gender Links’ work.

Susan Mogari
Constant Learner
In recognition of your dedication to continuous learning, consistently strengthening your skills and contributing with reliability, professionalism, and a steady commitment to excellence.

Tapiwa Zvaraya
Problem Solver
In recognition of your creativity and problem-solving skills, consistently finding practical solutions, supporting the team, and contributing to the success of Gender Links’ work.

Thuthukani Dlomo
Quiet Effectiveness
In recognition of your quiet effectiveness, consistently delivering reliable, high-quality work with dedication, professionalism, and a calm commitment to supporting the team.

Thandokuhle Dlamini
Delivery and Service
In recognition of your dedication and reliability in ensuring systems, communications, and technical support run seamlessly, consistently providing solutions and service that strengthen Gender Links’ work.

Susan Tolmay
Time Management
In recognition of your exceptional time management, consistently delivering high-quality work with focus, organisation, and reliability while effectively balancing multiple responsibilities.

Ntolo Lekau
Multi-Tasking and organizing
In recognition of your exceptional versatility and organisation, consistently managing multiple responsibilities with integrity, dedication, and a supportive spirit that strengthens both the team and the work of Gender Links.

Nolwazi Mbutse
Attention to Detail
In recognition of your meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, consistently delivering reliable, high-quality work with professionalism and diligence.

Devan Saitee
Support and Care
In recognition of your dedication, collaborative spirit, and willingness to support colleagues with patience, expertise, and respect, strengthening both the team and the impact of Gender Links’ work.

Fikile Maviya
Well-being advocate
In recognition of your dedication to promoting well-being, fostering a supportive and positive environment where colleagues feel valued, motivated, and connected.
Loverage Nhamoyebonde
Visibility and Storytelling
In recognition of your creative storytelling and innovative communication skills that amplify community voices and elevate the visibility and impact of Gender Links’ work

Thenjiwe Ngcobo
Peer Learning and sharing
In recognition of your generous spirit in sharing knowledge, supporting colleagues’ growth, and fostering a culture of learning, care, and collective empowerment within the Gender Links team.

Caroline Jeche
Integrity and Ethics
In recognition of your integrity, professionalism, and reliability, upholding the highest standards of ethics, accountability, and excellence in your work.

Lusanda Mamba
Inclusion and respect
In recognition of your commitment to inclusion and respect, fostering safe spaces where diversity is valued and every voice is heard.

Sarah Tshabalala
Positive Power
In recognition of your positive energy, reliability, and “consider it done” attitude that inspires the team and keeps the workplace moving forward with optimism and determination

Priscilla Maposa
Resilence
In recognition of your resilience and steadfast leadership, demonstrating courage and determination in advancing Gender Links’ work despite challenging circumstances.

Iafine Papisy
Collaboration
In recognition of your outstanding collaboration, and ability to build strong partnerships that sustain and strengthen Gender Links’ work in Madagascar even in the face of challenges.

Juliet Rusawu
Team Player
In recognition of your reliability, collaborative spirit, and quiet dedication, consistently supporting colleagues and strengthening the team with integrity and care.

Anushka Virahsawmy
Support and Care
In recognition of your warmth, creativity, and unwavering support for others, fostering a positive, inclusive environment while strengthening programmes and sustaining Gender Links’ work in Mauritius.

Fanuel Hadzizi
Number and Data
In recognition of your exceptional expertise in data and systems, transforming complex information into clear insights that strengthen decision-making and the impact of our work.

Neo Nthepha Kitso
Creativity
In recognition of your bold creativity and innovative thinking, using artistic vision and digital tools to inspire new ideas and strengthen Gender Links’ programmes.

Michelle Mutogo
Rising Star
In recognition of your adaptability, dedication, and collaborative spirit, and the leadership potential you demonstrate as a rising voice for the future of Gender Links.

Naledi Masipa
Community Mobiliser
In recognition of your passion and tireless dedication as a community mobiliser, inspiring action, empowering women, and strengthening Gender Links’ impact in the communities we serve.

Kevin Chiramba
Making IT work
In recognition of your exceptional ability to harness data, technology, and innovative digital tools to strengthen research, resource mobilisation, and evidence-based decision-making at Gender Links.

Chukela Baloyi
Consistently professional and thorough, Chukela approaches all duties with positivity and pride. He contributes to a safe and welcoming environment, is dependable across tasks, and is recognised for his calm, reassuring presence.

Emmanuel Hamah
Emmanuel is versatile and dependable, effectively multitasking across departments. He supports guests and colleagues willingly, maintains high service standards, and brings energy and commitment to daily operations.

James Sithole
James demonstrates strong work ethic and reliability. He is attentive to security, punctual, and ensures tasks are completed diligently, contributing to both guest safety and operational stability.

Joe Mathebula
Joe is customer-focused and hardworking, ensuring guests are well cared for. His friendly nature, consistency, and attention to detail support positive guest experiences.

Khensani Zabala
Khensani is caring, respectful, and service oriented. She assists guests proactively, works diligently, and is valued for her positive attitude and willingness to go the extra mile.

Lindiwe Zulu
Lindiwe provides strong leadership through compassion and consistency. She supports team cohesion, maintains a positive spirit during challenges, and ensures service quality is upheld.

Mandla Ncube
Mandla is reliable and security-conscious, ensuring facilities are safe and well maintained. His steady presence and commitment contribute to both staff confidence and guest comfort.

Naume Zinengeya
Naume is a hardworking and cheerful team member who delivers services efficiently and with warmth. Her commitment to cleanliness and guest satisfaction is consistently noted.

Octavia Sibanda
Octavia is supportive, adaptable, and attentive. She works independently when needed, contributes positively to teamwork, and maintains high standards in guest service.

Phumulani Mathebula
Phumulani is proactive and customer-driven, always ensuring duties are completed on time. He is dependable, responsive, and contributes positively to team dynamics.

Rosemary Manzinyi
Rosemary is a quiet but consistent contributor who works diligently behind the scenes. Her reliability and attention to detail strengthen daily operations.

Sthembiso Moyo
Sthembiso is hardworking, punctual, and professional. She balances warmth with discipline, ensuring guests receive timely, high-quality service.
Trevor Tangadza
Trevor is creative, humorous, and a strong team player. He takes initiative, maintains outdoor spaces well, and contributes to a positive working environment.
