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ABOUT US

Overview of the foundation

Sisonke Wellness Foundation is a non-profit organisation committed to mental health advocacy, education, and empowerment, focusing on communities with limited access to mental health resources and support. Our primary target audience is children and youth (ages 12-23) from underprivileged backgrounds, along with their parents and educators, in townships across Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces in South Africa.

Our foundation is committed to destigmatising mental health by fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and advocating for accessible resources and support. We firmly believe that education and awareness are the cornerstones of empowerment, enabling individuals to recognise the signs of mental distress, access appropriate support, and navigate their journey towards healing and resilience.

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SWF-Founder-Khwezi-Mabunda
Founder
Our Story

In 2021, as the world came to a standstill and we were all confined to our homes amidst the pandemic, our founder, Khwezi Mabunda, faced a profound personal crisis. Isolated in her apartment, 10 hours away from her family and her unwell daughter, Khwezi experienced her first panic attack. Overwhelmed and unsure of what was happening, she feared for her life and the well-being of her daughter. This pivotal moment ignited a deep resolve in her to understand and address mental health challenges. Driven by the desire to raise awareness and provide education, Khwezi embarked on a mission to equip others with tools and resources to navigate life's difficulties. What began as a weekly support group for young people discussing their struggles evolved into a registered NPO two years later, following a period of realignment with our core mission. Today, we are dedicated to working with young people, parents/caregivers, teachers, schools, churches and communities, believing that by planting the seeds of resilience early, we can foster a more resilient future for all. “We believe that the mental health of mental health requires a more proactive approach than reactive to save lives and build a community of people who can support one another”, says founder, Khwezi Mabunda.

Khwezi Mabunda

Founder

What We Do

We are committed to helping young people live longer, healthier lives by making mental health care, support, and knowledge accessible

In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goal 3 (Good Health & Well-Being), we aim to be part of the global mission to reduce early deaths caused by preventable health conditions by 2030.

Core Services

Health & Well-Being First:

We put mental health and balance at the center of everything we do.

People First, Always

We listen with empathy and show up with heart.

Do What’s Right

We lead with integrity, consistency, and accountability.

Impact That Lasts

We create long-term, transformative change.

Stronger Together

We collaborate, partner, and grow through community.

Keep Learning

We embrace growth, stay curious, and create space for everyone to evolve.

Core Programs

Core Program 1

This youth-centered program empowers high school and undergraduate university students across Africa to build long-term emotional well-being.

  • The Mental Wealth Movement
  • Empowering youth to understand, manage, and grow their mental well-being.
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Core Program 2

The Bridging The Gap program equips parents, caregivers, communities and teachers with the knowledge, and confidence to better understand, support teens.

  • Bridging The Gap
  • Equipping families and communities to support teens and strengthen connections.
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Core Program 3

Her Health, Her Mind empowers young women by exploring the vital connection between reproductive health and mental wellness.

  • Her Health, Her Mind
  • Equipping young women with knowledge for body and mind wellness.
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Core Program 4

The ManSpace provides young men with safe, supportive spaces to explore mental health, identity, masculinity, and emotional expression.

  • ManSpace
  • Creating safe spaces for young men to explore mental health and healthy masculinity.
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Board of Directors
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