Transition in Leadership at Inkululeko
Inkululeko is undergoing a significant transition as our Founder and CEO, Jason Torreano, announces his decision to step down from his role by July 1, 2025.
JASON’S DEPARTURE:
Jason's departure marks the end of an era that began thirteen years ago with an idea: to build an organization that supports motivated and talented learners in South Africa. Under his leadership, Inkululeko has grown from a small, donated office serving 10 students to a multifaceted organization with programs across multiple sites in Makhanda, serving over 100 learners annually. The organization has also established a thriving social enterprise unit and secured a Rotary Global Grant to create employment pathways in a community facing high unemployment.
THE TRANSITION:
This transition period will allow Inkululeko to further develop local leadership, ensuring the organization continues to thrive and grow. As he prepares to embark on a new adventure, Jason expresses immense gratitude and pride for what has been built together, confident that Inkululeko's mission of transformative education will remain steadfast.
THE NEXT CEO:
Taking over the helm as CEO will be Zuko Luyanda Gqadavama ka Somfiyane, currently serving as Deputy CEO. Zuko's life is a testament to resilience and tenacity, overcoming significant challenges in pursuit of knowledge and empowerment. Raised in the rural areas of Lusikisiki by his grandmother, who was both his guardian and a beacon of strength, Zuko nurtured an insatiable thirst for knowledge throughout his schooling years.
Committed to change and empowerment, Zuko channeled all his efforts into education. He believes, as Nelson Mandela once emphasized, that education has the power to reshape the world. Zuko's commitment to community development began in high school and continued through university, where he focused on mentorship and tutoring for high school learners. This belief guided him through his academic journey, leading to his graduation with honors in Psychology (BA) from Rhodes University, following his undergraduate degree in BA Psychology from Nelson Mandela University.
Post-university, Zuko transitioned into various community organizations, solidifying his role in the development space. His passion for development propels him to champion the struggles of African children and the broader African populace, earning him the mantle of the voice for the voiceless. Zuko's work spans diverse programs, advancing multifaceted missions as both an aspiring academic, community development practitioner, and accomplished young poet. He has collaborated with numerous local and international organizations and institutions, thriving at the intersection of academia and non-profit initiatives.
As the Deputy CEO of Inkululeko, Zuko epitomizes dedication to academic research and after-school interventions. Zuko believes that success hinges on passion and the willingness to make sacrifices, amplified by endurance, resilience, and accepting assistance. His collaborative endeavors hold immense potential for transformation, and he views success as acknowledging our limitations and embracing help on the path to triumph.
With Zuko at the helm, Inkululeko is poised to continue its mission of transforming lives through education. He carries the aspirations of the marginalized, hoping to answer their prayers and become their symbol of hope. As Jason steps down, we hope the community will extend the same support to Zuko, ensuring Inkululeko's continued impact and growth.
