A dynamic new leadership team has been elected to head the Free State chapter of the Black Management Forum (BMF) Young Professionals, with Tshepo Moabelo named chairperson.
The appointment brings in a new era for the organisation, which serves as a platform for young professionals to lead, grow, and influence transformation across the province.
Moabelo, a qualified Civil Engineering Technologist with a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, is supported by a newly formed team: Deputy Chairperson Kanya Mlungwana; Head of Enterprise Development Luke Mtwetwe; Head of Development and Empowerment Modiehi Tshabalala; and Head of Community Development Dr Lehlohonolo Papo. All are newly elected and ready to roll out an ambitious agenda.
“Our first priority has been establishing our presence and reaching out to stakeholders,” said Moabelo. “We’ve already met with Harmony Gold Mine and are strengthening ties with the private sector, government, and SETAs. We want to be visible, accessible, and effective.”
The BMF Young Professionals functions as the youth wing of the national Black Management Forum, championing transformation and inclusive growth. The new Free State leadership will focus on mentorship, training, and empowerment to build a pipeline of high-calibre young leaders.
Deputy Chairperson Kanya Mlungwana emphasised the need for alignment within the organisation. “We’re cultivating a culture of collaboration and accountability. Our collective mission is to empower black professionals and drive impact throughout the province,” she said.
Mlungwana. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Luke Mtwetwe’s enterprise development portfolio will prioritise access to markets, digital enablement, and a strong mentorship framework. He plans to collaborate with corporates and government institutions to offer funding, incubation, and supplier development opportunities for youth-owned businesses.
Modiehi Tshabalala, leading development and empowerment, is rolling out workshops in social media management, personal branding, and financial literacy. “It’s about building confidence and providing access to platforms that drive real growth,” she said.
Empowerment, Modiehi Tshabalala. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Dr Lehlohonolo Papo, who leads community development, underscored the importance of merging professional growth with social impact. “You can’t lead effectively without engaging your community. Our goal is to build both careers and communities,” he said.
Looking ahead, the team is set to launch mentorship initiatives, outreach programmes, and entrepreneurship boot camps across the province, reinforcing its goal of becoming the most influential youth organisation for black professionals in South Africa.
Key Priorities for BMF YP Free State Leadership:
- Empower through development: Training, mentorship, and upskilling programmes for young professionals
- Foster connections: Cross-sector collaboration to unlock professional and entrepreneurial opportunities
- Promote thought leadership: Use policy engagement, digital platforms, and dialogue spaces to influence youth development
Justine Fortuin
