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Operations # Are you nominating yourself? Nominee Title Nominee First Names Nominee Last Name / Surname Select the Position Nominee Email Nominee Contact Number Brief Motivational Statement Updated CV of Nominee Nominator Title Nominator First Names Nominator Last Name / Surname Nominator Institution / Practice Nominator Email The Nominee consented to this Nomination Seconder Title Seconder First Names Seconder Last Name / Surname Seconder Institution / Practice Seconder Email The Seconder consented to my Nomination
17 No Prof MBONGENI SHADRACK SITHOLE Vice President mmsithole@uwc.ac.za 0711623078 Professor Mbongeni Shadrack Sithole is a distinguished academic leader and social work educator with more than 15 years of professional and academic experience. Currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of the Western Cape, Prof. Sithole has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing social work education, research, and practice both nationally and internationally.

Prof. Sithole brings to ASAWEI an impressive academic record, holding a Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work), a Master’s degree in Social Work, and multiple additional qualifications in psychology, labour relations, human resource development, and law. His multidisciplinary expertise enables him to provide strategic leadership that bridges education, policy, and practice. He is currently pursuing an LLB degree, further strengthening his capacity to engage with social justice, human rights, and legislative frameworks shaping the profession.

Throughout his career, Prof. Sithole has actively contributed to curriculum development, postgraduate supervision, external examination, and academic leadership roles. His extensive publication record—including books, book chapters, and peer-reviewed articles—reflects his deep engagement with decoloniality, Afrocentricity, inclusive education, and social policy, all of which are central to ASAWEI’s mission of advancing African scholarship.

His leadership roles at UKZN and UWC, particularly in postgraduate coordination, research committees, and student development, highlight his ability to drive institutional growth and transformation. Importantly, Prof. Sithole has been consistently involved in ASAWEI activities, presenting papers and facilitating workshops at national conferences, thereby contributing to shaping the discourse on social work education in South Africa.

Prof. Sithole’s contributions extend beyond academia to community engagement, policy development, and professional capacity-building. His work with the Department of Social Development, correctional services, and community-based projects demonstrates his commitment to socially responsive education and practice. His membership in multiple professional bodies, including the SACSSP, ASSWA, and EAPA-SA, further underscores his leadership within the broader professional landscape.

Given his extensive experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing social work education and practice in Africa, Professor Mbongeni Shadrack Sithole is eminently suited to serve as Deputy President of ASAWEI. He embodies the values of academic excellence, inclusivity, and social responsiveness that are essential for leading the Association into the future.		 Dr Thembelihle Brenda Makhanya University of Mpumalanga Thembelihle.Makanya@ump.ac.za Yes Dr Sandile Gumbi University of Mpumalanga sandile.gumbi@ump.ac.za Yes
16 No Prof Mpumelelo Innocent Ncube President ncubeme@ufs.ac.za 0736949327 I am honoured to nominate Prof. Mpumelelo E. Ncube for the position of President of the Association of South African Social Work Education Institutions (ASASWEI). Prof. Ncube is an accomplished scholar, leader, and practitioner whose contributions to social work education, practice, and research embody the values and vision of ASASWEI.

Prof. Ncube currently serves as the Academic Head of Department and Associate Professor of Social Work at the University of the Free State. He has also served as Vice President of ASASWEI (2023–2025), demonstrating his commitment to strengthening the association’s leadership and strategic direction. His career spans diverse roles from statutory social worker in government, psychosocial services manager in the NGO sector, employee wellness specialist in the corporate sector, to academic leader and researcher giving him a holistic understanding of the social work profession across practice, policy, and education.

Prof. Ncube’s research and scholarship are internationally recognised. His contributions in developmental social welfare, supervision, decolonisation, and teaching and learning have shaped both academic debates and professional practice. He has published extensively in accredited journals, authored and edited books, and supervised numerous postgraduate students, making a significant impact on the next generation of African social work scholars.

His leadership within the academy is equally distinguished. He has chaired the Senate Working Group on Decolonisation at UFS, served on the Senate Academic Committee, and contributed nationally to the Supervision Framework and Curriculum for Social Service Practitioners. These roles highlight his capacity for collaborative governance, curriculum transformation, and policy advocacy.

As President, Prof. Ncube will prioritise:

Strengthening the visibility and influence of ASASWEI locally and globally.

Advancing curriculum transformation that reflects African epistemologies while maintaining global relevance.

Enhancing postgraduate training and supervision capacity across institutions.

Expanding strategic partnerships with government, NGOs, and international bodies.

Championing professional solidarity and inclusivity, creating opportunities for emerging educators and scholars.

Prof. Ncube’s vision, leadership, and dedication make him an ideal candidate to lead ASASWEI into its next chapter of growth and impact. I strongly believe that under his presidency, the association will continue to serve as a thought leader, advocacy platform, and catalyst for transformation in social work education and practice.		 Dr Thembelihle Brenda Makhanya University of Mpumalanga Thembelihle.Makanya@ump.ac.za Yes Dr Sandile Gumbi University of Mpumalanga sandile.gumbi@ump.ac.za Yes
15 Yes Prof Zibonele Zimba Vice President zibonelez@uj.ac.za 0787752258 I am nominating myself for the Vice President of ASASWEI. I bring a proven record of leadership in social work research, education, and professional development, with a commitment to advancing socially responsive and transformative social work in South Africa and beyond.
In this role, I will actively support the President and provide continuity of leadership by assuming responsibilities in the President's absence. I will contribute to driving ASASWEI’s strategic initiatives, strengthening collaborations with key stakeholders, and ensuring that the Association remains a strong voice for social justice, ethical practice, and academic excellence.
With my experience in stakeholder engagement, research productivity, and capacity building, I am well-positioned to foster partnerships, expand ASASWEI’s visibility, and support the advancement of social work education and practice. I am committed to working collaboratively with colleagues to uphold the Association’s vision and to strengthen its impact locally and globally.		 Prof Frank Rapholo University of Limpopo frank.rapholo@ul.ac.za Yes
14 No Dr Andrew Spaumer Vice President spauma@unisa.ac.za 0728885030 Dr. Spaumer exemplifies academic excellence, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to social justice. His extensive experience in teaching, research, and community engagement, particularly in child protection and developmental social work, positions him as a transformative leader. As a founding member of key national and international social work organizations, and a dedicated lecturer, mentor and program coordinator at UNISA, Dr. Spaumer brings both strategic insight and grassroots impact. His proven ability to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and uphold ethical standards makes him an ideal candidate to advance ASASWEI’s mission and influence.

 Prof Kgashane Johannes Malesa UNISA maleskj@unisa.ac.za Yes Prof Rembuluwani Paul Mbedzi UNISA mbedzr@unisa.ac.za Yes
13 No Prof Mpumelelo Ncube President ncubeME@ufs.ac.za 0514017125 I wholeheartedly nominate Prof Mpumelelo Ncube for the ASASWEI presidency. He possesses a unique blend of passion for the profession and exceptional leadership skills. His proven ability to organise academic events and unite colleagues from different universities is invaluable.

He has a steadfast commitment to advancing psychosocial well-being, human rights, and social justice, which is essential for our constituency. With his visionary leadership and institutional memory, he can significantly deepen institutional collaboration and expand our regional and global visibility. He is the right person to guide ASASWEI into its next phase of growth and impact.		 Prof Roelf Reyneke University of the Free State reynrp@ufs.ac.za Yes Dr Mariette Van Straaten University of the Free State VanstraatenMM@ufs.ac.za Yes
12 No Prof Mbongeni Sithole Vice President mmsithole@uwc.ac.za 021 959 1625 I am honoured to accept the nomination for Vice President of ASASWEI. With over 15 years’ experience in social work education, research, and academic leadership, I am committed to advancing Afrocentric, decolonised, and socially just social work in South Africa. My expertise in postgraduate supervision, curriculum development, stakeholder engagement, and mentoring of the emerging scholars aligns with ASASWEI’s pursuit of promoting collaboration in social work education, research, and practice. I believe in collective leadership and ethical service and am committed to contributing meaningfully to ASASWEI’s continued growth and influence in shaping the future of social work education, research and practice.
Prof M Sithole		 Dr Natalie Mansvelt Nelson Mandela University natalie.mansvelt@mandela.ac.za Yes Dr Nevashnee Perumal Nelson Mandela University nevashnee.perumal@mandela.ac.za Yes
11 No Prof Mpumelelo Ncube President ncubeme@ufs.ac.za 051 401 7512 I, Prof Mpumelelo E. Ncube, humbly avail myself as a candidate for the Presidency of ASASWEI. As current Vice President, I am committed to our mission of fostering excellence in social work education, training, and research. I pledge to continue to champion inclusive, contextually grounded, and decolonial approaches that advance psychosocial wellbeing, human rights, and social justice for the benefit of our constituency and the attendant beneficiaries. Rooted in ASASWEI’s vision, I aim to deepen institutional collaboration, support ethical leadership, and expand our regional and global visibility. I bring institutional memory, visionary leadership, and a passion for social transformation that can guide ASASWEI into its next phase of growth and impact.
Yours sincerely,
Prof Mpumelelo E. Ncube		 Dr Natalie Mansvelt Nelson Mandela University natalie.mansvelt@mandela.ac.za Yes Dr Nevashnee Perumal Nelson Mandela University nevashnee.perumal@mandela.ac.za Yes
10 No Prof Priscalia Khosa Secretary priscaliak@uj.ac.za 0609391655 Prof Priscalia Khosa is a seasoned, well-published, and NRF-rated academic with more than 10 years of experience in Higher Education. She has worked at different HEIs and her active engagements in multiple research and engagement projects alongside her learning and teaching tasks, attest to her ability to multi-task. She has exceptional self-leadership and administration management skills and will be able to execute the secretary duties as outlined. Prof Veonna Goliath Nelson Mandela University Veonna.goliath@mandela.ac.za Yes Dr Natalie Mansvelt Nelson Mandela University natalie.mansvelt@mandela.ac.za Yes
9 No Dr Dillo Justin Ramoshaba Secretary justin.ramoshaba@ul.ac.za 0792265021 Dr DJ Ramoshaba is attached to the Department of Social Work as a lecturer at the University of Limpopo. Dr DJ Ramoshaba possesses a doctoral degree in Social Work from the University of Limpopo as his highest qualification. Dr Ramoshaba also holds a certificate in RPL Practices, he is also an accredited assessor and moderator. Dr DJ Ramoshaba is both a registered social worker and an academic. He practiced as a social Worker in public and private sectors wherein he gained practice experience. Dr Ramoshaba has published several research articles in DHET accredited journals. Mr Thembinkosi Peter Singwane University of Limpopo thembinkosi.singwane@ul.ac.za Yes Prof Selelo Frank Rapholo University of Limpopo Frank.Rapholo@ul.ac.za Yes
8 No Prof Selelo Frank Rapholo Vice President frank.rapholo@ul.ac.za 0799707404 Prof SF Rapholo obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Social Work qualification from the University of Limpopo in 2009 where his academic career begun. Prof Rapholo, a Y2 NRF Rated Professor and current Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Limpopo, holds a Master of Social Work: Forensic Practice with the North West University and a PhD in Social Work obtained from the University of Limpopo. His postgraduate studies rigorously explored the disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) with specific focus on forensic investigation in CSA allegations. Prof Rapholo’s career as a registered Social Worker with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) begun in 2009 with the Limpopo Provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) wherein he practiced generic social work. It was during his practice as a social worker at DSD that he developed a premonition to scientifically explore the area of CSA which he currently has become an expert in the field. Ms Khutso Mamadi University of Limpopo khutso.mamadi@ul.ac.za Yes Dr Dillo Justin Ramoshaba University of Limpopo justin.ramoshaba@ul.ac.za Yes
7 No Dr Dillo Justin Ramoshaba Secretary justin.ramoshaba@ul.ac.za 0792265021 Dr DJ Ramoshaba is attached to the Department of Social Work as a lecturer at the University of Limpopo. Dr DJ Ramoshaba possesses a doctoral degree in Social Work from the University of Limpopo as his highest qualification. Dr Ramoshaba also holds a certificate in RPL Practices, he is also an accredited assessor and moderator. Dr DJ Ramoshaba is both a registered social worker and an academic. He practiced as a social Worker in public and private sectors wherein he gained practice experience. Dr Ramoshaba has published several research articles in DHET accredited journals. Ms Khutso Mamadi University of Limpopo Nozikhutso@gmail.com Yes Mr Thembinkosi Peter Singwane University of Limpopo thembinkosi.singwane@ul.ac.za Yes
6 No Prof Selelo Frank Rapholo Vice President frank.rapholo@ul.ac.za 0799707404 Prof SF Rapholo obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Social Work qualification from the University of Limpopo in 2009 where his academic career begun. Prof Rapholo, a Y2 NRF Rated Professor and current Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Limpopo, holds a Master of Social Work: Forensic Practice with the North West University and a PhD in Social Work obtained from the University of Limpopo. His postgraduate studies rigorously explored the disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) with specific focus on forensic investigation in CSA allegations. Prof Rapholo’s career as a registered Social Worker with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) begun in 2009 with the Limpopo Provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) wherein he practiced generic social work. It was during his practice as a social worker at DSD that he developed a premonition to scientifically explore the area of CSA which he currently has become an expert in the field. Dr Thembinkosi Singwane University of Limpopo thembinkosi.singwane@ul.ac.za Yes Dr Dillo Justin Ramoshaba University of Limpopo Justin.Ramoshaba@ul.ac.za Yes
5 No Prof Selelo Frank Rapholo Vice President frank.rapholo@ul.ac.za 0799707404 Prof SF Rapholo obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Social Work qualification from the University of Limpopo in 2009 where his academic career begun. Prof Rapholo, a Y2 NRF Rated Professor and current Head of the Department of Social Work at the University of Limpopo, holds a Master of Social Work: Forensic Practice with the North West University and a PhD in Social Work obtained from the University of Limpopo. His postgraduate studies rigorously explored the disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) with specific focus on forensic investigation in CSA allegations. Prof Rapholo’s career as a registered Social Worker with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) begun in 2009 with the Limpopo Provincial Department of Social Development (DSD) wherein he practiced generic social work. It was during his practice as a social worker at DSD that he developed a premonition to scientifically explore the area of CSA which he currently has become an expert in the field. Dr DILLO JUSTIN RAMOSHABA University of Limpopo justin.ramoshaba@ul.ac.za Yes Ms Khutso Mamadi University of Limpopo khutso.mamadi@ul.ac.za Yes
4 No Dr Luce Pretorius Secretary luce.pretorius@nwu.ac.za 0620224172 Dr Pretorius is an experienced social work academic, researcher and practitioner committed to advancing social work education in South Africa. As Subject Group Deputy Leader and senior lecturer at NWU, she contributes to curriculum renewal, national policy engagement and postgraduate development. Her research foregrounds professional safety and systemic change, while her leadership within SAASWIPP and university structures reflects integrity and accountability. She brings strong administrative skills, clear communication and a deep commitment to collaboration. As Secretary, she will be able to support ASASWEI’s strategic goals by fostering inclusivity, preserving institutional memory and strengthening national and international engagement through efficient, ethical governance. Dr Marelize Vergottini North-West University marelize.vergottini@nwu.ac.za Yes Prof Lizane Wilson North-West University lizane.wilson@nwu.ac.za Yes
3 Yes Mrs Moleboheng Mamiky Phiri Vice President mamiky.phiri@up.ac.za 0814691072 I am applying for the role of Vice Presenter because I believe social work must lead transformation not only in policy and practice, but in how we see ourselves as a profession. As a lecturer at the University of Pretoria, I’m deeply committed to shaping the next generation of social workers with a global, socially just, and critical lens.

My journey has been both local and international. As an exchange student during my Master’s in Social Development , I gained perspective that continues to inform my work. I’m currently pursuing my doctorate, focusing on enhancing regulation for social workers responding to technology facilitated gender based violence an emerging and urgent issue, for social workers. My passion lies in policy and ensuring it responds to the realities on the ground, people in practice.

I was a student in international Humanitarian Diploma Assistance Cohort 58 from Fordham University last year and was administering the course for Cohort 60 in South Africa. I’ve taught clinical social work students in Germany university on TFGBV and will be presenting more work in Turkey later this year to create awareness on the role of social workers and technology. I recently participated in Indaba X 2025, the biggest machine learning conference in South Africa and contributed on why social worker should be part of AI spaces and advocating for digital literacy for vulnerable communities. I bring practical experience and a deep commitment to strengthening the profession through ASASWEI.		 Dr Peggie Chiwara University of Pretoria peggie.chiwara@up.ac.za Yes
2 Yes Prof Zibonele Zimba President zibonelez@uj.ac.za 0787752258 It is my privilege to nominate myself for ASASWEI President for the period 2026 to 2027. As Deputy Head of Social Work and Community Development at UJ and national convener of SWAN-SA, I bring grounded leadership, policy engagement, and a strong commitment to social justice. My work focuses on advancing decolonial, cultural competence, community-rooted, and transformative social work education. I aim to strengthen ASASWEI’s collective voice, foster collaboration across institutions, and support educators and students in navigating South Africa’s complex social realities through responsive, ethical, and empowering teaching and practice. I am ready to serve with integrity, vision, and a commitment to collective growth. Mr Luvo Kasa WSU lkasa@wsu.ac.za Yes
1 Yes Mrs Elizabeth Johanna Maria (Lizna) Lucas Secretary liznalucas@gmail.com 0662567908 I am nominating myself for the Secretary position within ASAWEI as a committed social work educator, researcher, and current Programme Coordinator at the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP). With experience in both academic leadership and administrative coordination, I am confident in my ability to support the strategic and operational functions of ASAWEI.

In my current role, I oversee the Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Science (Community Mental Health Promotion) programmes. This includes curriculum planning, academic governance, and student support, all of which demand meticulous record-keeping, effective communication, and strong organizational skills, qualities central to the role of Secretary.

Serving in this capacity will be an extension of my commitment to advancing the social work profession in South Africa. I am passionate about fostering collaboration among institutions, advocating for ethical and transformative social work education, and strengthening the collective voice of social work academics and professionals.

I would be honoured to contribute my skills to ASAWEI in this role, while continuing my work at SACAP.		 Mrs Elizabeth Lucas SACAP liznalucas@gmail.com Yes
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