Thokozile Qalanto is a powerhouse in township economic development, youth empowerment, and business transformation. With over 16 years of experience in youth and enterprise development, she is the founder and director of Makwande Development Solutions, a consulting agency specializing in digital marketing, training, and strategic business support for small enterprises.
She holds a Higher Certificate in Entrepreneurial Development from the Raymond Ackerman Academy at the University of Cape Town, where she was awarded Best Business Idea of the Year (2019) by the UCT Graduate School of Business. Her career spans both nonprofit and corporate sectors, combining grassroots insight with organizational leadership.
In December 2024, Thokozile was elected Secretary General of the Khayelitsha Business Forum (KBF) — a central institution driving township entrepreneurship and economic collaboration. Under her leadership, KBF has strengthened partnerships, launched capacity-building programs, and amplified youth-owned businesses.
Thokozile is also a 2024 finalist in the Womandla Women in STEAM Awards under the categories of Advocacy in STEAM and Rising Star. She has served as a Youth Development Collaboration Lab steering committee member, project coordinator, and community liaison officer, leading multiple civic, business, and safety initiatives in Khayelitsha.
Her strength lies in turning ideas into enterprises, and enterprises into engines of change. Through mentorship, training, and stakeholder engagement, Thokozile Qalanto is building a legacy of inclusive growth and opportunity — one township at a time.
