South Africa has experienced several decades of its transition to a democratic dispensation and yet challenges remain on every front. There are huge developmental backlogs. Inequality is unacceptably high and millions of people live in poverty. Our government and the political order have failed to lead our society towards the future all our children deserve. The governance system has been undermined by corruption, self-interest and failure to prioritise the needs of the people.

The majority of South Africans want our constitutional democracy to succeed and to deliver on the post-apartheid promises of an equitable and prosperous country in which the opportunity for self-realisation is available to all. We believe that government will not be able to implement effective reconstruction and development nor build a vibrant prosperous society without strong, informed and effective Civil Society Organisations. We believe democracy needs to be strengthened, systems of accountability restored and citizen participation increased at every level. We therefore commit ourselves to strengthening the sector, to improving the quality and impact of our services and delivery in general and, to contributing to a vibrant and dynamic society. As organisations, we therefore agree to adhere to this Code of Ethics.

Khumbulani Mdluli
National Deputy Chairperson: Youth Commission

The National Deputy Chairperson of the Youth Commission at the Civil Society Unmuted Coalition South Africa, proudly representing Gauteng Province. He is a dynamic and purpose-driven youth development leader with over a decade of corporate experience and a proven track record in advancing youth empowerment and community transformation.

A registered HR Generalist with the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP), Khumbulani brings strong expertise in people development, leadership coordination, and programme implementation. He plays a critical role in strengthening national youth structures, driving capacity-building initiatives, and supporting high-impact campaigns in collaboration with government and civil society partners.

In addition to his leadership role, Khumbulani serves as a National Deputy Lead and is an active member of the organisation’s Media Team, contributing to strategic communication and visibility of youth programmes. He is also the founder of the LGBTI Youth Change Drivers Mentorship Foundation, where he champions inclusive, youth-led development initiatives that create meaningful opportunities and sustainable impact for young people.

Khumbulani continues to be a strong advocate for inclusive leadership, youth participation, and transformative change across South Africa.

Kholofelo Mosina
Chairperson: Youth Sector, Limpopo Province

Kholofelo Mosina is a dedicated change agent, development activist, youth development practitioner, and civil society leader with a strong focus on leadership, coordination, and facilitation. He has built a solid track record of service across various youth development platforms, consistently contributing to community upliftment and youth empowerment.

Throughout his development journey, Kholofelo has worked with several reputable organisations, including LoveLife, the Department of Social Development—where he served as a mentor at both national and provincial youth camps—Enke: Make Your Mark, ICS, and Activate Change Drivers. He is also the Managing Director of Lefa La Baswa Development Initiatives, through which he continues to drive impactful community development programmes.

His passion for youth development is evident in his extensive involvement in both school-based learner support programmes and skills development initiatives for out-of-school youth. He is committed to creating opportunities that enable young people to realise their full potential and actively participate in shaping their communities.

Kholofelo’s leadership is guided by resilience, service, and a deep belief in civic responsibility, inspired by the words of John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

He currently serves in the Youth Commission as the National Secretary, where he continues to contribute strategically to youth development and national coordination efforts.

Lisa Silwana
National: Youth Lead

Lisa Silwana is a passionate and driven youth leader serving as the National Youth Lead of the Youth Commission under the Civil Society Unmuted Coalition South Africa. With over 12 years of experience in youth development and community facilitation, she is committed to empowering young people and amplifying their voices in spaces that matter.

She plays an active role within the Media Committee, where she contributes to shaping youth narratives, coordinating digital engagement, and driving impactful storytelling across platforms.

Lisa’s journey is rooted in grassroots activism, having led school-based programmes, community outreach initiatives, and national youth campaigns. She has worked extensively with young people through facilitation, mentorship, and peer education, including leading youth-focused programmes such as MTV Shuga.

Her work is driven by a deep passion for education, leadership, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive, lead, and influence change in their communities.

Luvo Matinise
Data and Research

Luvo Matinise is a Community Advocate and Social Change Enthusiast, passionate about empowering young people and driving meaningful community development. As the Cape Town Lead within the Youth Commission, he plays a strategic role in advancing youth-focused initiatives and ensuring that young voices are represented in key spaces.

He currently serves in the Data and Research portfolio, where he contributes to evidence-based approaches that inform programmes, policies, and advocacy efforts. Luvo represents Movement Championing Change NPO RSA and is actively involved in Civil Society Organisations, working to amplify the perspectives and needs of young people across communities.

Through his partnership with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), he continues to strengthen youth impact by supporting initiatives that create opportunities, promote participation, and build stronger, more inclusive communities.