Nombasa Tsengwa (Ph.D.)

About

I believe in harnessing each person's unique DNA to generate organic energy that empowers them to reach their full potential. This belief has been at the heart of my leadership journey and continues to guide me today. With over two decades at Exxaro Resources, I had the privilege of playing a central role in shaping one of South Africa's leading mining and renewable energy companies. As CEO and in previous roles, including Executive Head of Coal Operations and MD of Minerals, I led strategic investments exceeding R17 billion and helped achieve an average ROCE of 25% since 2017. I spearheaded Exxaro's diversification into future-facing commodities such as copper and manganese, aligning with the company's Sustainable Growth and Impact Strategy and its ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Under my leadership, Exxaro ranked among the JSE's top 5 performers and expanded its operational and geographical footprint, becoming a model for transformation, innovation, and value creation. These experiences shaped my thinking about what true, lasting impact requires - resilience, courage, vision, and a commitment to a purpose beyond profit. They also prepared me for my next chapter: L'inyathelo. I founded L'inyathelo in 2024, a name that means "the step" in isiXhosa. For me, it truly represents the bold step I felt called to take. I created a private investment and strategic advisory platform shaped by my deep belief in transformative, values-based leadership. This step was my response to what I see as an urgent need across public organisations, the private sector, and our continent: leadership grounded in integrity, purpose, and the promise of shared prosperity. L'inyathelo was born out of deep reflection. I thought about my journey as a rural girl finding her way in the world, the leadership challenges I have navigated over the past 30 years, and my hopes for Africa's future. Our continent is rich with potential but too often held back by deep inequalities. I believe that the most significant investment we can make, the step that truly matters, is in nurturing visionary, organic leadership and building resilient ecosystems that honour and are rooted in our unique African DNA. In this new role, I will oversee strategic direction, mentor leaders, and guide initiatives that bridge inner growth with outer impact. Together, I believe we can co-create a leadership culture in which authentic, values-driven leadership shapes Africa's future.