We are excited to introduce the third cohort of Ripples of Hope Fellows who each bring diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences, and passions while sharing a zest for service and inciting social change. These Fellows will be graduating in June 2025!
Amaya Cage USA
Student at Rhodes College
Junior Dlamini South Africa
Assistant Program Manager at Partnership Program (KH & Motheo)
James Carroll USA
Student at Bridgewater State University
Anna Cho USA
Student at University of Chicago
Anouk Cronjé South Africa
Graduate student at Stellenbosch University
Ingram USA Founder, Climate Action Careers
South Africa
Filmmaker & Cultural Activist, Youth Advocate,Innovator, Climate Champion
South Africa
IT and Finance student at University of Cape Town
Mazzi
Thabang Makgakwe
Mathabatha Malete
Meet the Fellows Meet the Fellows
The Class of 2027
Boitumelo Minah Susan Moeng South Africa
Student at Knorr-Bremse
Aurora Kroto MosesSouth Africa
Founder & CEO There Is More Pro
Aranxa Parra USA
Student, Masters of Law in Network for Human Rights in Lisbon, Portugal
South Africa
Student at Rosebank College
Swartz South Africa
Founder of The UniDreams Foundation
Tavera
Teacher Fellow at City Year Greater Boston USA
Student, Masters of Law in Human Rights Advocacy University Network for Human Rights and NOVA School of Law in Lisbon, Portugal
Marie Tucker
Youth and Community Strategist USA
Brandall
Ofentse Phoofolo
Josie
Amaya Cage
Intentional, Ambitious, Dedicated she/her
Amaya Cage is an undergraduate student at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and is originally from Louisiana. Amaya’s passions for parks and recreation, social and reproductive justice, and women’s rights, especially in underserved communities, have led her to major in Urban Studies. She regularly serves with the City of Millington, TN, Parks and Recreation Department. She is a dedicated and thoughtful person.
Amaya is a Bonner Foundation service scholar and is part of the Sister Reach Reproductive and Sexual Justice Fellowship. On campus at Rhodes, she is an Alumni Ambassador, a member of the only Female Acapella Group in Memphis, Lipstick on Your Collar, and an ACCESS mentor to incoming freshmen. For fun, Amaya loves going on long walks, watching movies, and singing karaoke. She is personable and a great listener, and is excited about the opportunity to learn from others and participate in important conversations that affect our lives.
“The windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror for a reason.”
― Tyler Perry as Madea
James Carroll
he/him
Active, Social, and Inquisitve
James Carroll is currently a student at Bridgewater State University, studying Political Science with a concentration in legal studies. He is very grateful for his nomination to the Ripples of Hope program and excited to take part in such an amazing opportunity. James is working as an outdoor instructor fellow at Elevate Youth in Boston, MA, to help underserved youth have equal access to outdoor recreation. During his time at Bridgewater State University, James was a volunteer coach for the 7th- and 8th-grade Bridgewater Boys’ Lacrosse team.
James is committed to being a positive role model for youth, anywhere and everywhere. In addition, James has served as an intern for State Senator Patrick O'Connor of First Plymouth and Norfolk County, Massachusetts.
"Do
not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men."
President John F. Kennedy
Anna Cho
Outgoing, Optimistic, Ambitious she/her
Anna is an undergraduate at the University of Chicago studying Public Policy and Psychology, with a deep commitment to public service and youth advocacy. Having immigrated from South Korea in second grade, she experienced firsthand the cultural and educational gaps that foreign-born students face, which are gaps that existing programs rarely address. That personal experience became the foundation for a passion for service. She served as Founder and Executive Director of Project Find Yourself, an international 501(c)(3) established in 2021 to champion self-autonomy education for children in shelters. Under her direction, she managed a team of 10+ staff members, partnered with shelters, corporations, and youth-led organizations worldwide, and connected volunteers to opportunities to work directly with children.
Collaborating with psychologists, educators, and children themselves, she developed a curriculum that teaches children how to say "no" —a foundational skill for self-determination and personal safety. To extend the curriculum's reach, Anna authored the children's book "Sally Says 'No'!" All proceeds were circulated back to Project Find Yourself, and donated copies were distributed directly to communities through shelter library readings. Moving forward, Anna hopes to pursue a career in education policy, with continued research in developmental psychology and a potential path through law school.
"One step at a time is all it takes to get you there"
Emily Dickinson
Anouk Cronje
Inquisitive, Adventurous, Creative she/her
Anouk is a master’s student at Stellenbosch University with a passion for all things people. Her love for language – specifically Afrikaans, her mother tongue – is rooted in a deep love for people and a desire to learn how to build bridges through good communication. Through her research in sociolinguistics, she hopes to help advance equality for speakers of nonstandard varieties of Afrikaans by highlighting the role of jazz in that struggle, as she strongly believes that the joy expressed through jazz transcends borders.
Her interests and involvement stretch wide and include film photography, music, hospitality and culinary arts, and literature, specifically poetry. At the very core of her commitment to serving those around her is a deep love for and commitment to Jesus Christ and His church, where she is rooted in a community that is deeply committed to serving and loving both family members and strangers. Being part of a community is one of her foremost values, and through her work in the arts, hospitality, and education, she hopes to share that with others.
“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear [...] I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life [...]", from Walden by Henry David Thoreau
Junior Dlamini
Hardworking, Compassionate, Resilient he/him
Junior Luthando Vuyani Dlamini is a community-focused professional passionate about youth development, skills training, and creating pathways to employment. Raised in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, by my grandparents, I developed strong values of humility, responsibility, and service to others from an early age. These values continue to shape my commitment to empowering young people and strengthening communities.
Through my work with the college and industry partners, I play an active role in bridging the gap between education and the workplace. I support initiatives that help students gain practical experience and become industry-ready. One of the projects I oversee is the construction of Thusanang House, a collaborative, hands-on training project in which students from different trades work together to build a facility that will later serve the community. I believe deeply in the principles of Ubuntu and social justice. My work focuses on expanding opportunities for youth, supporting community-driven initiatives, and ensuring that education translates into real-world impact.
“I am because we are.” African philosophy of Ubuntu
Mazzi Ingram
Curious, Passionate, Thoughtful she/her
Mazzi Ingram is a climate and environmental justice advocate, published writer, and founder of Climate Action Careers, a youth-focused environmental education program in Philadelphia. Her work bridges equity, education, and climate resilience. Mazzi’s commitment to justice began through her early work as a documentary filmmaker with a youthled media collective, where she produced media highlighting issues impacting young people in Philadelphia. Through this work, she developed a strong foundation in racial justice and equity, using storytelling to amplify youth voices and advocate for systemic change. She later collaborated with the City of Philadelphia to help strategize community-informed approaches to gun violence prevention, centering the perspectives and safety of young people most impacted.
Today, Mazzi continues this work through national partnerships with organizations such as New Deal for Youth and Cities United, advancing youth leadership, equity, and community-driven solutions. Across her work, she is committed to building pathways for young people, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, to access opportunities, shape policy, and lead in the fight for a more just and sustainable future.
"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."
—
Malcolm X
Thabang Makgakwe
Creative, Leadership, Humanity he/him
Thabang Makgakwe is a South African creative director, actor, innovator, visual artist, and filmmaker from Limpopo, currently based in Johannesburg. His work is grounded in storytelling that reflects the lived experiences of young people and the communities that shaped him. Growing up in a rural village taught him the value of culture and resilience, and the importance of using creativity to speak to real issues affecting society. Through film, visual art, and performance, Thabang explores themes of identity, youth empowerment, climate awareness, and social justice. His artistic practice often uses recycled materials and everyday objects, turning them into meaningful artworks that highlight the connections among people, culture, and the environment. In this way, his work encourages conversations about sustainability and responsibility toward the planet. Guided by the spirit of ubuntu, Thabang believes that art should bring people together and open space for dialogue.
Over the years, he has used his creative voice to engage communities, especially young people, in conversations about opportunity, creativity, and change. From his beginnings in Limpopo to sharing his work on national and global platforms, Thabang continues to tell honest African stories that celebrate culture, inspire hope, and encourage a more conscious and sustainable future.
Northern Sotho / Sepedi: Motho ke motho ka batho. – Rawa ra ema, raleka gape
English: “A person is a person through other people.
– Stand strong, never give up
Mathabatha Malete
Humble, Innovative, Driven he/him
Mathabatha is a final-year student at the University of Cape Town, where he is pursuing a dual degree in Information Systems (IT) and Finance. His leadership also extends to governance, as he serves as a student representative on the University Information and Communication Technology Committee at UCT, contributing to discussions and decisions that shape the University of Cape Town's technology and digital strategy. Coming from a humble background, Mathabatha is a proud first-generation university student. His academic journey has been supported by the highly competitive Allan Gray Orbis Foundation scholarship, one of South Africa’s most prestigious fellowships for young leaders.
Driven by a deep commitment to creating opportunities for others, he founded the Destiny Achieve Foundation, a nonprofit focused on empowering young people through mentorship, educational guidance, and leadership development. Through this work, he aims to help students—especially those from underserved communities—navigate pathways to higher education and meaningful careers. Mathabatha is passionate about the intersection of technology and finance, and equally passionate about the future of South Africa’s youth. He hopes to leverage innovation, leadership, and service to help unlock opportunities for the next generation.
I am not African because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me.”
― Kwame Nkrumah.
Boitumelo Minah Susan Moeng
Fun, Disciplined, Resilient she/her
Boitumelo Moeng is a young, motivated girl with a passion for professional development programmes in sports. She is known for her funny personality and thoughtful nature, as well as her ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.
Boitumelo is passionate about making a positive impact in her community through sport while contributing to the wellbeing of others. She enjoys staying active and values the discipline, teamwork and resilience that sports help to develop. Sports play an important role in her personal life, not only as a way to stay physically active but also to relax, recharge, and challenge herself. She appreciates the sense of community and connection that sports create, whether participating in activities or supporting others.
“It’s not important what people what people think when you come in but what they think when you leave”
Jurgen Klopp
Aurora Krotoa Moses
Resilient, Curious, Grounded she/they
Aurora Krotoa Moses is a South African community leader from the rural Stellenbosch area in the Western Cape. Raised by a single mother, she has drawn on her journey as a first-generation leader and transgender woman to shape her perspective on dignity, resilience, and the importance of creating opportunities for others. Aurora has spent several years moving within LGBTQ+ advocacy spaces, where she has worked to uplift transgender identities and speak about the importance of safety, recognition, and belonging. Her thinking is also influenced by a strong awareness of Indigenous histories and rights in South Africa, which continue to shape her understanding of identity, justice, and community. She is the founder of the Aurora Kaleidoscope Movement, a nonprofit initiative she previously led as Chief Executive Officer.
Aurora currently serves as a Ward Committee Member in Stellenbosch Municipality and sits on several community committees where she helps bring community voices into decision-making spaces. She is also a Global Youth Ambassador with Theirworld, where she serves as the Global Youth Ambassador Network Engagement Lead and contributes to the LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Education Task Team. Aurora describes herself as a curious and open-minded person who is always willing to learn from the people and spaces she encounters. She is the Founder and CEO of There Is More Project, a social enterprise focused on empowering youth to realize that There Is More for them than their circumstances or environments have led them to believe.
"I was here. I lived, I loved, I was here.” I Was Here by Beyoncé
Nothando Ndlovu Compassionate,
Service-Driven, Community Builder she/her
Nothando Ndlovu is a Social Work student at Stellenbosch University whose leadership is grounded in service, compassion, and a deep commitment to community care. She believes meaningful change begins with small, intentional acts that restore dignity and strengthen a sense of belonging. Her leadership journey within Huis Russel Botman House began as Student Life Manager, where she facilitated initiatives focused on student wellbeing, connection, and personal growth. She now serves as Chairperson, a role entrusted to her by her peers and one through which she continues to lead with empathy, accountability, and purpose
Beyond residence leadership, Nothando has mentored first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and later served as a Super Mentor, guiding students as they navigate the transition into university life. She is also actively involved in social impact initiatives, serving as Operations Manager for Sharebite and Fundraising Manager for Cambiare, where she contributes to projects addressing food insecurity, educational access, and community wellbeing Alongside her studies and leadership work, Nothando runs a small braiding business, Regal Braids Through a giving initiative inspired by her own journey, she hopes to support a firstyear student by providing monthly hair care, offering confidence, dignity, and one less burden during a challenging transition into university life.
"Kodumela Moepathutse, ga go Lehumo letswago Kgaoswi" proverb in Sepedi
“There is no wealth that comes easily; thus there is no gain without pain or hard work ” English translation
Aranxa Parra
Sunshine, Feminist, Chingona she/her
Aranxa Alejandra Parra Marquez is a vibrant and compassionate young professional driven by an insatiable curiosity for understanding the intricate tapestry of human cultures. With a background in cultural anthropology and sociological theory, she dreams of bridging understanding and fostering empathy across diverse communities. Aranxa’s journey is fueled by a deep-seated passion for advocacy.
She strives to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity, recognizing the beauty and richness that arises from embracing intersectionality. Currently, she is pursuing her Master of Laws in Human Rights Advocacy through a conjoined rigorous program offered by the University Network for Human Rights and NOVA School of Law based in Lisbon, Portugal.
Ara is gaining a multidisciplinary understanding of human rights standards and their application to social conflict. The program combines intensive international law studies with hands-on training and engagement in human rights practice under the supervision of experienced advocates. Driven by kindness, fueled by curiosity, and guided by a profound sense of purpose, Aranxa hopes to make an impact in a world that yearns for connection and unity in the face of injustice.
“When they go low, we go high.”
― Michelle Obama
Ofentse Phoofolo
Curious, Passionate, Determined he/him
Ofentse is a 22-year-old from Soweto, Johannesburg, who attended Thaba Jabula Secondary School. A proud alumnus of the Kliptown Youth Program (KYP), Ofentse has remained actively involved in community service, volunteering consistently and supporting youth development initiatives. He has also engaged with over 500 learners across various schools through motivational speaking, focusing on themes such as resilience, discipline, and self-belief.
He is passionate about youth empowerment, leadership, and entrepreneurship. He is currently working toward launching his own perfume business. One of his biggest goals for the future is to build businesses that will allow him to mentor and empower young people while also becoming a present and impactful parent.
“I dont come from a rich family but a rich family will come from me.”
Brandall Swartz
Extroverted, Compassionate, Driven he/him
Brandall Swartz is a passionate student leader and community advocate whose work is rooted in the belief that opportunity should never be limited by circumstance. His journey in community development began in Grade 10 through the Interact Club, a Rotary International subsidiary, where he later served as club president. It was here that he first discovered the power of service and the impact that committed young people can have in their communities.
At Stellenbosch University, Brandall deepened his commitment to leadership and transformation. He currently serves as the Transformation Manager for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Student Committee and as the Critical Engagements Portfolio Head at Metanoia Residence, where he facilitates meaningful conversations about social justice, inclusion, and the future of higher education.
In March 2025, he founded the UniDreams Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to helping learners, especially those from underserved communities, apply to institutions of higher learning. Working alongside the Stellenbosch University Centre for Student Recruitment and the WOW Project, the foundation seeks to open doors that many learners never knew existed. For Brandall, service is deeply personal. It is about extending to others the same opportunities that once changed his own life and reminding every young person that there is space for them to dream, to belong, and to excel.
“If not us, who? If not now, when?”
Josie Tavera
Loyal, Extroverted, Wholehearted he/him
Josie Tavera was born in Brooklyn, New York, and shortly after his birth, he moved to the Dominican Republic, where he lived until the age of four. He then relocated with his mother and sister to Brookline, Massachusetts. Growing up, Josie spoke only Spanish, which initially limited his ability to socialize with peers and participate fully in classroom activities. However, this challenge did not hold him back With the support of a dedicated Spanish teacher, he was encouraged to fully engage in his learning experience This teacher played a pivotal role in his ESL development, fostered his appreciation for mathematics by helping him see it as a language, and supported him in building friendships with peers who could connect with him across languages
As he grew older, Josie steadily improved his English through education, sports, and extracurricular activities. He developed a strong sense of perseverance, consistently pushing himself to understand and succeed in everything he pursued. Today, he is surrounded by supportive individuals, continues to embrace new opportunities, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.
Most recently, Josie completed an AmeriCorps service year with City Year Greater Boston. He served in 7 and 8 grade classrooms. Because of his service year, he is now invested in pursuing a Master's degree in Education to then potentially become a middle school math teacher for Boston Public Schools
"No such thing as a life that's better than yours."
― J. Cole
Marie Tucker
Dedicated,
Relentless, Passionate she/her
Marie Tucker is a dedicated youth development practitioner from Louisiana who is passionate about creating transformative spaces where young people can grow, explore, and discover the world around them She believes the world itself can serve as a classroom, transcending the limitations of traditional four-walled structures and encouraging curiosity, courage, and connection. Her desire to make a difference is deeply rooted in the examples of care, guidance, and opportunity she witnessed and experienced as a child. After graduating, Marie had the privilege of serving as an AmeriCorps Member with City Year. That experience reignited her passion for service and strengthened her commitment to supporting young people as they navigate challenges and recognize their own strengths The lessons she gained through mentorship and consistency became a foundation that she carried with her in the years that followed
Through her work in program coordination, leadership development, and community engagement, Marie has designed and facilitated initiatives that expand access to educational enrichment, career exposure, and essential life skills. Her work is grounded in the belief that safe and supportive environments empower young people to build confidence, develop resilience, and see themselves as capable of shaping their own futures. Marie believes that when young people are given opportunities to explore the world and understand their place within it, they are better equipped to lead lives marked by purpose, impact, and possibility
"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."
