Our Leadership
Each leader brings a unique strength to the Trust’s mission, embodying a commitment to strengthening women, equity, and sustainable development across Africa. Their collective vision drives impactful change, inspiring a legacy of leadership for future generations.
Graça Machel
Founder and Board Chair
Theo Sowa
Interim CEO & gender expert
Anurita Bains
Associate Director, HIV/AIDS, UNICEF
Fred Swaniker
Founder, African Leadership Group
Josina Machel
Founder, Kuhluka
Dr Mthandazo Ngwenya
Managing Director, Bigen Africa
Paballo Makosholo
Group Chief Executive Officer, Kagiso Tiso Holdings
Priscillah Mabelane
Chartered Accountant & business executive
Sheila Sisulu
South African civil rights activist and former diplomat
Sisonke Msimang
Writer, Activist & Political Analyst
Graça Machel
Founder and Board Chair
Her Excellency Graça Machel is a renowned African stateswoman and humanitarian. From Mozambique’s liberation struggle to her global advocacy for women, children, and social justice, she has dedicated her life to transformation. Through the Graça Machel Trust, Mama Machel continues to inspire generations with her vision of dignity, leadership, and equity.
Theo Sowa
Interim CEO
A Ghanaian-born leader, Theo is recognised worldwide for advancing women’s and children’s rights. She brings decades of expertise in advocacy, philanthropy, and governance, serving on global boards and platforms. Her voice powerfully champions justice, equity, and women’s leadership.
Theresia Njeri
Chief Financial Officer
Shiphra Chisha
Director of Programmes
Leila Akahloun
Senior Advisor to Her Excellency Graça Machel
Korkor Cudjoe
Senior Entrepreneurship Programme Manager
Andia Laura Chakava
Investment Director, Afrishela
Christina Jansen
People and Culture Manager
Juliet Kimotho
Advocacy Manager
Irene Ochola
Monitoring Evaluation Research and Learning (MERL) Manager
Asania Aphane
Communication Manager
