In South Africa, public figures are actively and increasingly using their influence to champion ongoing social issues in the country, from youth education to poverty alleviation through government-backed grants such as those offered by the South African Social Security Agency also known as SASSA. These ten philanthropic celebrities are setting a powerful example through advocacy, philanthropy, and on-the-ground initiatives.
1. Nomzamo Mbatha
Cause: Youth Empowerment, Education Access
Nomzamo Mbatha, a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and award-winning actress, founded the Nomzamo Lighthouse Foundation, which provides mental health support, scholarships, and financial assistance to young South Africans. Her foundation operates in all nine provinces, directly supporting youth from underprivileged communities.
2. Bonang Matheba
Cause: Education for Girls, Period Poverty Awareness
Bonang launched the Bonang Matheba Bursary Fund, aimed at funding higher education for young women. She has also partnered with global organizations like Global Citizen to highlight issues such as period poverty — an often overlooked barrier to girls’ education.
3. DJ Zinhle
Cause: Women Empowerment, Financial Independence
Through her brand Era by DJ Zinhle and the Women Empowerment Tour, DJ Zinhle has promoted economic self-sufficiency for women. She has spoken publicly about the importance of support systems, including SASSA, in uplifting single mothers and low-income families, especially in township communities.
4. John Kani
Cause: Social Justice, Advocacy for the Elderly
Legendary actor and playwright Dr. John Kani is known for using his platform to speak on issues affecting South Africa’s elderly and disabled populations. In interviews, he has highlighted the role of SASSA in maintaining dignity and care for senior citizens, especially in rural areas.
5. Yvonne Chaka Chaka
Cause: Health, Youth Development
Often called the “Princess of Africa,” Yvonne Chaka Chaka is the founder of the Princess of Africa Foundation, which works in rural development and youth health education. She’s involved in initiatives supporting orphans and vulnerable children, aligning with the broader goals of SASSA’s child grant programs.
6. Shauwn Mkhize (MaMkhize)
Cause: Poverty Relief, Community Development
Business mogul Shauwn Mkhize is active in charity work through donations to shelters, schools, and women’s groups. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she supported food distribution drives in partnership with government departments — efforts that closely complement SASSA’s social relief mandates.
7. Ntando Duma
Cause: Youth Development, Community Service
Actress and media personality Ntando Duma runs the Inspire A Teen SA Foundation, which organizes campaigns like “Keep a Child Warm,” providing winter gear and basic needs to orphanages and underfunded schools. Her focus on empowering young people reflects the core values behind many SASSA grant programs.
8. Collen Mashawana
Cause: Housing for the Poor, Elderly Support
Philanthropist and entrepreneur Collen Mashawana, through his Collen Mashawana Foundation, has built homes for disadvantaged families and elderly individuals. His work aligns with government social protection schemes like SASSA’s older persons grant, especially in underserved provinces like Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
9. Minnie Dlamini
Cause: Education Access
Minnie Dlamini launched the Minnie Dlamini Foundation in 2014 to fund university tuition for young girls. She has emphasized the long-term economic and social impact of educating girls from low-income families, where SASSA child and foster care grants often serve as the only financial lifeline.
10. Shaka Sisulu
Cause: Youth Leadership, Civic Engagement
A social entrepreneur and co-founder of Y’abo Leader, Shaka Sisulu mentors young leaders and encourages civic participation. He has been involved in outreach programs that educate youth on their rights — including access to government services like SASSA’s youth grants and unemployment support.
Final Thoughts
These celebrities exemplify how fame can be used as a force for good. By supporting or aligning with initiatives like SASSA and championing youth empowerment, they are not only influencing public perception — they are driving measurable social change across South Africa.
Alia Shafique 2 
Admin