Born in the Northern Cape town of Hanover, Thandisile Fatyela’s was raised in a working-class community. A growing interest in environmental issues during his high school years in Cape Town sparked a calling — one that would see him become a leading figure in South Africa’s green economy. Thandisile, 32, holds two qualifications from the University of the Western Cape: a BA in geography, tourism and environmental sustainability studies and an honours in environmental management and applied GIS. He is also a certified assessor, internal auditor, and registered pest control operator. As the managing director of Fatyela Enviro Works, he leads operations across environmental projects funded by institutions such as WWF-SA, the EU, GreenCape, and the City of Cape Town. His leadership has earned him four major municipal contracts and a role as a featured protagonist in the Of The Future documentary screened at the 2025 Joburg Film Festival. He also serves as a ward committee member in the City of Cape Town and a board member of the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum. He is driven by a deep, personal mission: “I hate poverty. I’ve lived it. Now, I work day and night so that future generations don’t have to.” Mentored by social impact entrepreneur Sabelo Lindani, Thandisile’s motto is: “Lead with purpose, not ego.”
Sabelo Lindani, an entrepreneur from Somerset West, is recognised for his commitment to job creation and meaningful social impact. Having worked under his leadership in the company’s formative phase, his guidance and example have had a significant influence on the entrepreneurial journey. He continues to offer advice and support, which has been instrumental in shaping business strategy and personal growth. Currently, my company operates under his company, Contour Enviro Group’s Green SMME Development Programme and have been assigned as a business mentor for four months, from March to June 2025.