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Address

Johannesburg

Unit 20 Building 6, Riversands Outlet Park, Riverside 

Contact

info@kusiniwater.co.za

+27 10 824 9686

Water Champions

about the program

The water champions program is a hybrid skills development program aimed at South Africa youth. The program is designed to givetechnical training to 100 young individuals in the year 2024, primarily unemployed women to gain water technical skills and the basics of water technology and treatment. This program also aims to improve economic livelihoods by training them to run and own water kiosks. From the 100 trainees we aim to select a top 40 – Average of 4 people per province – who will be trained on sales, marketing and our water technology to be able to manage a water kiosk.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Training

Provide technical training and certification in water technology and treatment to 100 young individuals, prioritizing unemployed women.

Entreprenuership

Enable participants to establish and
manage water kiosks, fostering economic
empowerment.

Social Impact

Promote social impact by ensuring access to clean water in underserved areas through the Water Kiosks

BECOME A KIOSK OWNER

step 1

APPLY TO THE PROGRAM

step 2

DO THE ONLINE COURSE

step 3

ACE YOUR PITCH

step 4

GET TRAINING AND RUN A WATER KIOSK

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH (AGED 16-35)

PROBLEM SOLVERS

ENTREPRENUERS

WOMEN IN WATER AND SANITATION

INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCED IN RETAIL AND MARKETING

IDIVIDUALS LIVING WITH A DISABILITY

COMPUTER LITERATE INDIVIDUALS

Meet Our 2026 Water Champions

Empowering enterpreneurs to bring clean, purified drinking water to underserved communities.

Frellet Koope

Kimberley, NC

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My name is Frellet Koope I am 36-year old entrepreneur and creative professional from Kimberley, Northern Cape. I recently graduated from the University of Pretoria’s GIBS Gordon Institute of Business Science Entrepreneurship Development Academy, where I gained strong business and entrepreneurial skills. I also hold qualifications in Film and Television Production from east coast media and Community Journalism from UNISA. I am actively involved in community development through storytelling, youth empowerment and skills development initiatives. In my community we face water shortages which is normal brown and inconsistent access to clean water, which motivates me to be part of this programme and contribute sustainable solutions.

Joy Tshazibana

Douglas, NC

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I’m Joy Tshazibana, 34 years from Douglas. I was born and raised in Bongani, Douglas. I have great leader and entrepreneurship skills that will also be very crucial in the future. We have a registered business that is operational, we deeply connected and well known to our community. Our shop is currently the only South African led in the whole Douglas, which makes us immensely proud but also comes with it’s own challenges. My highest education level is Grade 12, but I have been involved in business since my teenage years and have later become an entrepreneur that always want the best for customers and my community. We have a great problem with safe, clean water in our community. Our water coming out of the taps are dirty and smelly that make people sick, and we as a business through Kusini Water Champion program can be the best way to get safe, clean water to our community.

Keamogetswe Hlongwane

Letlhabile, NW

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I am Keamogetswe Hlongwane a 29 year old from Letlhabile North West province.l have N6 in chemical engineering and have a business of scones and homemade ginger drink.l usually take part on local clean up drives.A water challenge we are facing in my community is that we rely on unreliable water tankers and borehole water that we buy from other people,for drinking water it’s a 12km trip to the nearby shopping center.l am excited to be part of this programme because it aligns with my passing for improvement water access and quality in my community.The skills and knowledge gained will help enhance the business and contribute to solving local water challenges

Lord Maite

Modjadjiskloof, LP

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My name is Lord Maite, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Modjadjiskloof Gamamaila, Limpopo. I have a background in business development with practical experience in running a car wash and fast food business. Through these ventures, I have developed skills in customer service, operations, and financial management. I am actively involved in community initiatives that support youth empowerment and local economic growth. My community faces challenges such as limited job opportunities and youth unemployment. I am excited to be part of this programme to grow my business, create jobs, and contribute to local economic development.

Marvellous Mlambo

Belfast, MP

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My name is Marvellous Nomfundo Mlambo and I am 30 years old. I moved from Middelburg to Mpumalanga Belfast in 2024. Because I was in a lot of community employment and outreach forums in middelburg (SANRAL STLM PLC member, Community Liao officer for vaalbank water treatment plant project P2100058 ) when I got to Belfast I started making donations to the local charity shop for SAVF Belfast children’s home every chance possible. In 2016 I completed my N4 in electrical engineering then went on to complete management development in 2022 with Wits business school and had the opportunity to an entrepreneurship program with Henley business school Africa.My business has been formally operational since 2020 when I started off doing 90-110mm pvc pipe ,stormwater and manhole subcontracts. There after I went on to plant hire , small equipment hire and supply or tips and aggregate G5 material. Recently I started a car wash in Belfast and I was able to create employment however It didn’t last because of unreliable water supply from the municipality. This problem becomes worse when there’s no electricity because there is no backup generator for the pump station. To top it off the water is not clean, it sometimes has debris and stains containers with brown like colour. I’m honoured to be part of the Kusini programme because I’ll be able to contribute in not just employment but a community issue that affects health and businesses (restaurants ,training centre, subcontractors etc.) affected in the area . This will be a great platform to educate the community about the importance of safe water, hygiene practices when storing water or using boreholes as a water source to prevent waterborne diseases .

Maserame Seleke

Hartbeesfontein, NW

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My name is Maserame Myra Seleke and I am a 29 year old individual who loves health with all of my heart. I went to a nursing school for my Ancillary certificate, went to NWU. I also did a short counselling course. I do not only love health but I also love food, and my entrepreneurial experience was working in my brother’s fast food restaurant and eventually made my way to the top by having a solo cooking business, I started cooking for large crowds across Klerksdorp and it was a very nice experience for me. The reason why I am excited about being part of the program is because I have experienced first hand how bad our water is. I have had diarrhoea constantly from drinking water from the tap, this got me thinking about our health and also our children who are more prone to suffer the consequences more. I once applied in 2023 and I could not continue to be in the program because my uncle passed away on the very first day of the virtual bootcamp, this has been with me since then and I told myself I needed to try again and try to save my community. I am beyond grateful for being chosen.

Mavhungu Mukwevho

Randfontein, GP

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My name is Mavhungu Prince Mukwevho. I was born and raised in Phindula Village, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, and currently reside in Greenhills, Randfontein, Gauteng. I am married with two boys. I graduated in Computer Systems Engineering from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and am currently pursuing a BSc in Informatics. I run a business developing and hosting websites, as well as creating custom-made furniture and woodworking projects. I am excited to join this programme to strengthen my entrepreneurial skills and learn how to better use business to give back to my community.

I study business management N5 and Higher Certificate in Commerce. I have register business which Truth Stationary and Books and I also spaza shop in my home town. I am involve in community program to make change in my community and good leader in my youth. I am so excited to bring change my home for safe water

Moeketsi

Botshabelo, FS

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I study business management N5 and Higher Certificate in Commerce. I have register business which Truth Stationary and Books and I also spaza shop in my home town. I am involve in community program to make change in my community and good leader in my youth. I am so excited to bring change my home for safe water.

Ngoakwana Seleka

Mohodi, LP

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Ngoakwana Seleka is a hard working and dedicated female, who furthered her studies at Tshwane University of Technology after passing her matric with 3 2 distinctions, enrolled with university of Johannesburg for entrepreneurship studies, she’s very found of her community she’s mentoring her community members for free and organised financial and entrepreneurial workshops for them. Donated to schools and pre schools. The most exciting part about being excepted to this program is that am going to serve clean and safe water to my community meaning am bringing life to my community and secondly there will be job opportunities created.

Nokwazi Mbhele

eMpangeni, KZN

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I am a Microbiology Honours graduate with a strong foundation in biotechnology and water research. I am actively involved with Green Chapter Projects and Foundation, where I contribute to water stewardship initiatives and community-based programmes focused on water quality monitoring and awareness. Through my involvement in partnerships such as the uMhlathuze Water Stewardship Programme, I have developed leadership, collaboration, and problem solving skills. I also run a small, unregistered crochet business, which has strengthened my entrepreneurial and business management skills. I am excited to join this programme to further develop my skills and drive meaningful environmental impact.

Ntokozo Ngobe

Middelburg, MP

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My name is Ntokozo Ngobe, 28 years old, i obtained a N.Diploma in Retail Business Management at VUT. I’m from Middelburg, Mpumalanga. The challenges we face is the contaminated water that comes from the tap, limited supply and access. This is mainly because we are surrounded by mines and chemical industries. I started as a middleman, where I bought bottled water for distribution then invested in getting a jojo tank for refills. I participate in CANSA march in support of those affected by cancer, I am excited to play a positive role by advocating for human rights when it comes to safe drinking water.

I am a Microbiology Honours graduate with a strong foundation in biotechnology and water research. I am actively involved with Green Chapter Projects and Foundation, where I contribute to water stewardship initiatives and community-based programmes focused on water quality monitoring and awareness. Through my involvement in partnerships such as the uMhlathuze Water Stewardship Programme, I have developed leadership, collaboration, and problem solving skills. I also run a small, unregistered crochet business, which has strengthened my entrepreneurial and business management skills. I am excited to join this programme to further develop my skills and drive meaningful environmental impact.

Tebogo Makoloko

Phalane, LP

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Ms. Tebogo Makoloko, aged 37, is a dedicated community advocate and skilled professional with a strong background in service and administration. She holds a BTech in Logistics Management and currently serves as an Administrator for Tsosanang Service Club, where she plays a vital role in supporting and assisting the elderly within her community. Passionate about making a meaningful impact, Ms. Makoloko is excited to contribute to improving lives by bringing quality water to her community. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity and proudly acknowledges winning the competition that will enable her to further this mission. Her commitment to service and development continues to inspire those around her.

Rotondwa Musitha

Makhado, LP

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Rotondwa Musitha (31) is an MBA candidate and a serial entrepreneur Managing Director of Trash Converters, based in Makhado, Limpopo. I have extensive entrepreneurial experience in waste management and the circular economy. Beyond business, I am a former pageant queen, dedicated to community upliftment. In Makhado, she faces critical water challenges, including nitrate contamination and inconsistent supply. Rotondwa is excited to join the Kusini Water Champions programme to scale sustainable water filtration solutions and integrate environmental safety with community health for a lasting impact.

Talla Motloung

Bloemfontein, FS

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My Name is Talla Motloung, a 48 year’s old entrepreneur from Bloemfontein in the Free State. I have matric certificate,  Despatch Clerk Certificate and Opportunity knock program Certificate. I run small business of Chicken’s Poultry, Ice-cream,Paraffin and Fruits and Vegetables. Through this work I built trust in my community and witnessed challenges of usafe and unreliable water source. I am excited to join the Kusini Water Champions to bring clean water, improve health and create lasting positive change in

Tebogo Mosegedi

Mothibistad, NC

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My name is Tebogo Mosegedi, a 33-year-old entrepreneur from Mothibistad, Kuruman in the Northern Cape. I have experience in construction, maintenance, and small business operations, which has helped me develop strong problem-solving and leadership skills. I am actively involved in my community and passionate about creating sustainable solutions. In my area, we face challenges with water quality and access to safe drinking water. I am excited to be part of the Water Champions Programme to provide clean, affordable water and make a positive impact in my community.

Thabo Tbose

Mamelodi, GP

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Thabo Tbose Projects trading as Meetsi Aqua and ICE is a 100% black-owned South African company dedicated to delivering safe, affordable, and sustainable water purification solutions. We focus on improving access to clean water for households, businesses, and government sectors, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Our solutions are designed for scalability, cost-efficiency, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that every drop counts.

Thebe Ntehelang

Upington, NC

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Thebe Ntehelang is the owner, founder and managing director of Thebe-Ya-Setshaba Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd. which is an Investment Holding Company with strategic investments in industries of the South African economy that show exceptional growth, sustainability and a great return on investment and the environment. The company’s core business is water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation services. The company is thus a 100% black youth owned trading enterprise and has a diverse staff compliment of 13 full-time employees, comprising of Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI) including people of African descent, Youth, and Women. We are immensely proud to be a Kusini Water champion since it concludes a company milestone and speaks truly to our core value as a business enterprise of giving real, tangible impact where we operate.

Victoria Tlhokoe

Petrusburg, FS

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My name is Victoria Tlhokoe, a 29-year-old from Petrusburg in the Free State. I hold a Higher Certificate and a BA in Communication Science. My entrepreneurial journey began in high school, where I ran a small informal business. I have served as a Child and Youth Care Worker at a local combined school, supporting and guiding young people. Petrusburg faces serious water challenges, including salty water and daily shortages. I am excited to join this programme to contribute to sustainable solutions and improve access to clean water in my community.

Wilfred Mogale

Ga-Sekgopo, LP

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My name is Wilfred Mocheudi Mogale, a young entrepreneur from Ga-Sekgopo Village in Limpopo province under Mopani district Municipality.I am passionate about business development, particularly in agriculture and water solutions. I have national diploma in Agriculture and 9 years experience in starting and planning in business particularly in farming ,processing and retailer and also improving community livelihoods. I actively engage in community development by identifying local challenges, especially limited access to clean and reliable water. This has motivated me to be part of this programme, as I am eager to gain skills and contribute sustainable water solutions that will improve health, create jobs, and uplift my community.

Zabalazile Makhoba

Gingindlovu, KZN

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I am Zabalazile Makhoba from KZN in Gingindlovu in Dokodweni Rural Village. I am a post matriculation female, who have worked in various sectors from corporate to entrepreneurship. I was destined to work in Rural communities, so I invested my time in community uplifting projects. I initially worked as a Facilitator and rose to project management. I’m currently a traditional Health Practitioner, poultry farmer and an informal trader at Gingindlovu Taxi Rank, selling fruits and vegetables, food and drinks since 2014 I’m happy to be part of the programme to address water challenges and to be a certified water champion.