Empowering Business for Socio-Economic Development
At Avo Vision, we believe in the power of businesses to drive positive change in society. Our mission is to partner with businesses and tackle key challenges in housing, early childhood development, lack of skills, the unemployment crisis, water conservation, and financial literacy. Join us in making a lasting impact and creating a better future.
Avo Vision is a purpose-driven organisation committed to making a difference. We combine our expertise in business development with a passion for Socio-Economic Development to create innovative solutions. Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated team, we empower businesses to create shared value and drive meaningful change.
Over time, we evolved into a Socio-Economic Development organisation, expanding our scope to address critical societal needs.
Today, we are proud of our transformation and the positive impact we continue to make. We are united by our shared Vision of driving social change through business. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, our team is ready to guide and support you in achieving your goals.
Our team consists of passionate professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise.
Make a Lasting Impact
Ready to drive positive change? Book a consultation today and explore how Avo Vision can help your business create shared value, address national challenges, and contribute to sustainable development.
Our team consists of passionate professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Raelene Rorke-Clarke
Director
Neil Campher
Chairman and Director
Meet Our Management Team
Asanda Mtimkulu
Genral Programme Manager
Henry Sebata
Managing Director
Khwezi Cenenda
Enterpirse Development Director
Spencer Mafokwane
Finance Manager
Mpume Jack
Marketing Project Manager
Meet Our Operations Team
Antoinette Mthethwa
Project Manager
Aviwe Panda
Project Manager
Francina Manthata
Project Coordinator
Heather Kunene
Social Media Coordinator
Ishmael Malivha
Data Analyst
Leah Tladi
Senior Project Administrator
Lutendo Mukhuba
Project Manager
Makhosazana Mkhatshwa
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Manager
Mpho Munyai
Project Coordinator
Nelson Tshuma
Bookkeeper
Nthabiseng Dube
Project Analyst
Refilwe Mabilo
Project Assistant
Veena Padayachee
Executive Assistant
Zinhle Dube
Documents Manager
Meet Our Sales Team
Hanli Buber
Account Director
Harold Manthata
Partnerships Associate
Khauhelo Madisa
Partnerships Associate
Mpho Mampuru
Business Development Assesociate
Partnerships That Drive Impact
Collaborating for Sustainable Change
Creating a Better Future
We’re driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and dedicated to addressing critical challenges in housing, early childhood development, unemployment, water conservation, and financial literacy. Through our initiatives and partnerships, we aim to create lasting change and improve the lives of individuals and communities.
What our customers say about us
“We believe that Avocado Vision has the necessary qualification and experience to assist you in your endeavours. Their Staff is responsive, their processes are clear and transparent, and their communication and reporting keep us informed on progress. Most important they understand the kind of support and development needs small business owners have and how to address them”
Rirhandzu Sithole
Development Impact Coordinator
Trust for Urban Housing Finance (TUHF)
"We found Avocado Vision very capable of delivering our programme on a national level, assisting with their expertise in areas where required and considering the recommendations from our independent Monitoring and Evaluation partner for 2019. Part of our requirements in partnering with a service provider is that they conduct themselves in accordance with our values at Momentum Metropolitan Holdings Ltd which Avocado Vision displayed throughout."
Claire Klaasen
Consumer Finance Education Portfolio Head
Momentum Metropolitan
"Environmental and Rural Solutions (ERS) in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, has been collaborating with Avocado Vision for over five years in developing the Green Business value chain in the upper catchment areas of the Umzinvubu River. This partnership which is still growing is helping us reach more people and conserve more resources. The message of building the resilience of our landscapes and ecosystem services is getting wider adoption mainly because of partnerships such as we have with Avocado Vision. As ERS we fully support the effort and resourcing of Avocado Vision so that they are enabled to grow their work and ours as partners."
Sissie Matela
Director
Environmental and Rural Solutions (ERS)
“We would rate Avocado Vision’s service at 90%. Their programmes are well designed, their systems work well, their operational team is strong, their facilitators are engaging and Avo knows their target market and what their development needs are.”
Wendy Bergsteedt
Group Head of marketing at Coronation Fund Manager
Coronation Fund Manager
“The small business development programme run by Avocado Vision has had and is continuing to have a powerful and enabling influence on these 15 Small Medium and Micro enterprises that have gone through the programme. We recommend Avocado Vision without reservation as a business development programme implementer who has performed beyond expectation and would rate their performance at 92%.”
Dr Christo Marais
Chief Director, Natural Resource Manager
DFFE
"We approached Avocado Vision during the course of March 2021 in order for them to assist us with a Consumer Education Initiative. We needed them to complete the proposed project with extremely tight deadlines in order for these initiatives to fall within our financial year for B-BBEE purposes. We had found the team at Avocado Vision to be knowledgable, passionate, detail-oriented, and deadline driven. They managed to complete our project within the deadline and kept us up-to-date throughout the project. The ability of the team to deliver on a big project, within three months, and during the COVID-19 pandemic has immensely impressed us. We will continue to partner with Avocado Vision and will recommend them to any third party that may require the services offered by Avocado Vision."
Quinton Ferreira
Industrial Relations (IR) Manager
Clientele
“We asked Avo to help us equip ECD principles and staff with the kind of business insights, tools, and financial acumen to be able to identify and leverage opportunities for real and measurable business growth and long-term sustainability. I would recommend any organisation to make use of Avocado Vision as a provider.”
Hannelie de Klerk
Senior Manager: Consumer education
Assupol
Our Guiding Principles
At Avo Vision, our work is guided by core values that shape our approach. We believe in integrity, collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility.
These values drive our actions and inform every decision we make, ensuring that our work creates sustainable impact and value for our clients and society.
South Africa's National Treasury has proposed a significant change to the retirement savings landscape with the introduction of the "two-pot" policy. This reform aims to balance long-term savings with limited pre-retirement access to funds, potentially reshaping how South Africans approach retirement planning. The implementation of this system comes at a time when the South African economy is experiencing significant tightness, adding both urgency and complexity to the reform.
The National Consumer Financial Education Committee (NCFEC) launched Money Smart Week South Africa (MSWSA) in 2018. Over the past six years, MSWSA has reached millions of South Africans through mainstream media, community radio, exhibitions, television, social media, and face-to-face workshops.
In August 2024, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), in partnership with Avo Vision, provided herbicide to 14 green businesses in Matatiele. These businesses play a crucial role in clearing invasive alien plants, which consume significant amounts of water and pose a threat to local biodiversity.
In line with the 2017/18 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor's report, entrepreneurial activity in South Africa has surged to its highest level since 2013. As economic challenges persist, one in three South Africans is turning to side hustles to supplement income and meet financial needs.
From September 2023 to June 2024, Avo Vision in Partnership with IDC (Industrial Development Corporation) embarked on an ambitious journey with the Social Employment Fund 2 (SEF 2) programme, aiming to tackle unemployment and boost small business sustainability across seven South African provinces. As we reflect on the project's achievements, the impact is clear: lives were transformed, businesses flourished, and communities were strengthened.
The Challenge of School Placements in Gauteng The Gauteng government has introduced an online application process for Grade 1 and 8 students. In the past, over 30,000 Gauteng learners faced delays in securing placements for Grade 1 and 8 in the 2018 academic year, causing concerns for parents as it is a barrier to access […]
Installations have already started in Soweto, Vaal, and West Rand, where 45 MSMEs are being supported with alternative energy solutions. This initiative will ensure business continuity, growth, expansion, increased turnover, and job retention. Avo Vision is proud to be a partner in this transformative project, equipping small businesses with alternative tools, business acumen training, and coaching to enhance their operations.
Phineas opened a second branch of his daycare in Cosmo City and attributes this achievement to Avo-SEF support. “It wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the Avo-SEF programme. I saw this as an opportunity to realise my dream, which was to open another branch and I finally did it,” Phineas explains.
Discover how Avo Vision and Absa are transforming lives through financial education workshops. Learn how students and small business owners are gaining essential money management skills for financial freedom.
Avo Vision collaborates with Project Biome to foster deeper environmental connectivity, employing 86 individuals in Mpumalanga and clearing alien species to restore water resources.
Learn how TNK Greenhouse Technology turns agricultural waste into sustainable charcoal briquettes and biochar, benefiting both the environment and the local economy through the Avo Vision SEF programme.
Kopano Mpya: From Unemployment to Sustainable Entrepreneurship In 2024, South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis reached a staggering 45.5% among individuals aged 15-34. For many young South Africans, finding stable employment seemed like an unattainable dream. One such individual was Kopano Mpya, a 29-year-old graduate from Ga-Kibi in Bochum, Limpopo. Despite his qualifications in Public Management, […]
By Nthabiseng Mhlanga, UJ Social Impact Assessment Master’s Candidate April 19, 2024 Edward Snowden once remarked, “Every person remembers some moment in their life where they witnessed some injustice, big or small, and looked away because the consequences of intervening seemed too intimidating. But there's a limit to the amount of incivility and inequality and […]
Are you passionate about making a difference? We are seeking skilled individuals to join our dynamic team as training partners. The Ideal Candidate: Has a deep passion for community development Naturally empowers and uplifts others Is self-motivated and resourceful Thinks independently and creatively At Avo, we believe in the power of education and community empowerment. […]
One of the major hurdles to improving financial literacy in South Africa is the limited access to financial education. Many schools do not offer comprehensive financial education, and when they do, it often falls short.
Tsathago Wildlife Services, a green business founded by Jacky Baloyi in Northwest, has employed 39 previously unemployed individuals through the SEF programme for bush thinning and environmental restoration.
South Africa faces a great challenge and obstacle in unemployment. Every quarter we hold on to our seats in anticipation of the unemployment statistics. What has become clear is that a shift for many of South Africa’s youth from looking for a job to creating one is necessary.
Good ideas and good partnerships develop and grow over time. They create special magic between people and visionary ideas, which, in the end, are greater than anything that we could have done on our own.
While many interpretations of this quote exist, one that is particularly pertinent is that while money may come into one's hands, those who do not understand how to control it will never grow rich.
It is frightening to note that only 49% of South Africans are deemed financially literate, and only 5% of South Africans will be able to retire comfortably. This is according to a recent article published by PocketFin.
Avo Vision plays a vital role in contributing towards the 2030 gender equality sustainability goals; over the years, women dominated all the training by just above 60 percent.
According to the South African Reserve Bank, a startling statistic reveals that over 75% of South Africans are spending most of their take-home pay on debt.
As of December 31, 2022, Avo Vision had ignited transformation across all nine provinces of South Africa, executing fifteen projects and up-skilling a remarkable 42,999 individuals.
70% of South Africans are spending all their income. Enabled by our financial education funding partners, Avo Vision has trained approximately half a million people in financial education.
The lack of job prospects and infrastructure challenges specifically in rural regions further worsen when it comes to 44% of women were affected directly and men at 41%.
Raelene is Avo Vision's Strategic Sales Guru - A proven business leader and entrepreneur, Ralene spearheads Avo's sales team with energy, innovation and strategic vision as her super power. She loves the challenge of learning from the market and finding ways to respond and overcome objectives to land the sale!
With an impressive 25-year tenure in Marketing and Communication, Neil Campher brings a wealth of experience to his role as Chairman and Director at Avo Vision. He is not only an accomplished businessman but also a dedicated social entrepreneur. Neil's extensive expertise and commitment align seamlessly with Avo Vision's mission, as he supports the board's strategic agenda, drives company initiatives, and spearheads partnership mobilization efforts. His visionary leadership is a cornerstone of Avo Vision's success.
Asanda Mtimkulu brings nine years of invaluable experience to Avo Vision as the General Programme Manager. With a solid foundation in Economics, holding a BCom degree, Asanda's expertise lies in overseeing and optimizing project delivery. She serves as the strategic linchpin, providing guidance and direction for all projects and project managers within the organization. Her proficiency extends to managing the crucial aspect of trainer management, ensuring that Avo Vision's training initiatives reach their full potential. Asanda's dedication and strategic insights drive Avo Vision's projects towards unparalleled success.
With an impressive 27 years of experience, Henry Sebata is a stalwart Managing Director at Avo Vision. Armed with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Henry is a seasoned business leader who is dedicated to enhancing the profitability of corporations and smaller businesses alike. He is a motivational force, inspiring individuals to reach greater heights. Henry's keen eye for improvement opportunities and his knack for nurturing relationships when necessary underscore his commitment to sustainable growth and success.
With an extensive 17-year career, Khwezi Cenenda is an invaluable asset as the Enterprise Development Director at Avo Vision. Holding a Bachelor of Economics Honours degree, Khwezi brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His diverse background spans various industries, including investment advisory, stakeholder relationship management, business development support services, human rights advocacy, training, public relations, and communications. This breadth of experience equips Khwezi with a unique and multifaceted perspective, making him a pivotal leader in driving enterprise development initiatives at Avo Vision.
With a decade of extensive financial experience and armed with a National Diploma in Internal Auditing, Spencer Mafokwane is the adept Finance Manager at Avo Vision. Spencer's expertise spans private, public, and non-profit sectors, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of diverse financial landscapes. He excels in navigating statutory requirements for compliance with entities such as SARS, CIPC, WCA, Labour, EEA, and more. Spencer's proficiency and meticulous approach to financial management are integral in ensuring the financial stability and regulatory compliance of Avo Vision.
With over 14 years of experience in the communications field, Mpume is a passionate and versatile marketing communications specialist. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Journalism and Media Studies, which equipped her with a unique blend of skills and knowledge to deliver effective and engaging marketing and communications solutions for diverse clients and audiences.
She spearheads media relations, securing high-impact coverage and enhancing brand reputation, internal and external communications, ensuring consistent and clear communication across all channels and platforms.
With an illustrious career spanning 25 years, Antoinette Mthethwa is a stalwart Project Manager at Avo Vision. Armed with a BCOMM Education qualification, she is the guiding force behind multiple Consumer Finance Education programmes. Antoinette is deeply passionate about empowering individuals to pave the way for a better future for all. Her extensive experience in both the education and civil society sectors lends a profound depth to her capabilities. Antoinette boasts a strong background in planning and orchestrating cross-functional local development projects, making her an invaluable asset to Avo Vision's mission.
Aviwe Panda is a dynamic and versatile Project Manager with six years of invaluable experience. Armed with a Diploma in Business Management, she is a driving force in the realm of project management. Aviwe's passion lies in the empowerment of individuals through knowledge. Currently, she is wholeheartedly dedicated to overseeing a Consumer Financial Education project. Her belief in the potential for impactful change in people's lives drives her unwavering commitment to her work. Aviwe is a visionary leader at the forefront of creating positive and lasting transformations.
With a Bachelor's degree in Financial Management and four years of professional experience, Francina Manthata plays a pivotal role as the Project Coordinator at Avo Vision. Her primary focus is to collaborate closely with Project Managers, ensuring the seamless and effective execution of our financial literacy programs. Francina's expertise and dedication are instrumental in driving the success of these initiatives, making her an invaluable member of the team.
Heather Kunene is the creative force behind Avo Vision's digital presence. With a B-Tech Degree in Journalism and two years of professional experience, Heather skillfully navigates the ever-evolving digital landscape. As the Social Media Coordinator, she intricately shapes and distributes content that not only captivates but also deeply resonates with our diverse online audience. Heather's passion for storytelling and her keen understanding of digital dynamics help Avo Vision maintain a vibrant and engaging online community.
Ishmael is a dynamic Impact Data Analyst, skilled in transforming data into actionable insights. With a strong background in statistical analysis and a commitment to social impact, he excels in uncovering meaningful stories behind the numbers. Ishmael is dedicated to using her expertise to drive positive change and create a more equitable and sustainable future.
With eight years of invaluable experience and armed with a National Diploma in Technical Financial Accounting, Leah Tladi is a Senior Project Administrator par excellence. Her expertise extends to the proficient management and monitoring of project data and expenditure. Leah's hallmark attributes include impeccable attention to detail, a commitment to quality control, and exceptional time management skills. These qualities render her an indispensable member of any project team striving to achieve high-quality results. Leah's dedication to excellence is a driving force behind the success of Avo Vision's projects.
Lutendo Mukhuba, armed with a BA Hons in Industrial Sociology and three years of dedicated service, is a young and dynamic Project Manager at Avo Vision. In this role, Lutendo is responsible for running and overseeing Consumer Financial Education (CFE) and Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) projects. Her leadership qualities are implacable, providing a sturdy foundation for project success. Lutendo is deeply passionate about Socio-Economic development and finds immense fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of those in need. Her dedication and drive are instrumental in shaping positive outcomes for Avo Vision's initiatives.
Makhosazana Mkhatshwa, armed with a Masters in Demography and Population Studies, brings a decade of comprehensive experience to her role as the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Manager at Avo Vision. Her passion for quality improvement is evident through her involvement in various programs dedicated to enhancing excellence. Makhosazana's extensive background in social science research further bolsters her proficiency. Her expertise spans a spectrum of crucial skills, including data analysis, report writing, and meticulous data management for both qualitative and quantitative data. With Makhosazana at the helm, Avo Vision ensures that every endeavor is underpinned by rigorous evaluation and continuous learning.
Mpho Munyai is a dedicated Project Coordinator with over three years of invaluable experience in the Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) space. Armed with a Bcom Accounting Degree, Mpho brings a unique blend of financial expertise and project coordination skills to the team. Her passion lies in contributing to the success of small businesses and the broader enterprise and supplier development sector. Mpho's commitment to continuous learning and skill expansion is a testament to her drive for excellence. With Mpho at the helm, Avo Vision's initiatives in the ESD space are propelled towards success.
Nelson Tshuma, equipped with a BCom Accounting degree and three years of professional experience, is the maestro who turns numbers into insights at Avo Vision. With precision and expertise, he ensures our financial journey is not only smooth but also remarkably accurate. Nelson's meticulous attention to detail and his proficiency in financial management play a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of Avo Vision, guiding the organization toward fiscal success.
A dedicated Agricultural Economist with a demonstrated history of success in project coordination. Holding a B-Tech in Agricultural Management and currently pursuing a MSc in Agricultural Economics, Nthabiseng combines practical expertise with academic knowledge to drive impactful results. Proficient in data analysis and project planning, she possesses the skills necessary to contribute effectively to various initiatives. Nthabiseng's unwavering commitment to sustainability and community empowerment underscores her professional endeavors. Her adept analytical abilities and steadfast commitment to promoting positive transformation render her an indispensable asset in every professional pursuit.
Refilwe is a multifaceted professional who values humility in the workplace. She has a background in both education, where she worked as a facilitator, and administration, which gives her a diverse range of skills to bring to her work. Her experience has instilled in her a deep passion for working with people and making a positive impact in their lives.
With an impressive 15-year career and holding a Bachelor of Arts degree, Veena Padayachee is the cornerstone of support for Avo Vision's leadership team. As an Executive Assistant, Veena ensures seamless operations and provides invaluable assistance to our team's leadership. Her dedication and expertise are instrumental in maintaining the high standards of efficiency and effectiveness that Avo Vision is known for.
With a decade of dedicated experience and armed with a Certificate in Project Management, Zinhle Dube serves as the meticulous Documents Manager at Avo Vision. She works closely alongside Project Leads to ensure that materials for all training projects are delivered and captured promptly. This role demands a substantial administrative component, and Zinhle excels in tracking information both in the field and collected from the field. Her attention to detail and organizational prowess are instrumental in ensuring the smooth flow of essential documentation for Avo Vision's initiatives.
With an impressive 23 years of experience under her belt, Hanli Buber stands as a seasoned Account Director at Avo Vision. Her educational background includes a BA in Drama and a BA (Hons) in Literary Science, showcasing her versatile skill set. Hanli's passion lies in finding innovative ways to impart crucial life skills, including financial and business knowledge, to grassroots communities. Her role extends beyond Avo Vision, as she excels in connecting like-minded organizations to impactful development projects. Hanli's dedication to meaningful change and her extensive experience make her an instrumental force in driving positive transformation.
With over a decade of experience in the field, Harold Manthata brings a wealth of expertise as a Partnerships Associate at Avo Vision. Armed with a Bcom in Economics, he is an accomplished Account Manager with a deep understanding of client partnerships. Harold's impact extends globally, as he has built an extensive network across South-East Asia, Africa, Europe, and the UK, representing a multitude of multinational companies. His dedication to fostering long-lasting relationships is underscored by his impressive ability to converse fluently in seven different languages. Harold is a vital asset in driving impactful partnerships for Avo Vision.
Khauhelo Madisa is a dynamic leader at Avo Vision, boasting four years of invaluable experience and armed with a BCom in Financial Management. His strategic acumen fuels business growth through innovative approaches. With a fervent dedication to SMME and community development, Khauhelo pioneers partnerships that transcend conventional norms. His efforts empower individuals and communities, setting the stage for unprecedented success. At Avo Vision, Khauhelo's visionary outlook propels the organization towards new heights of collaboration and achievement.
Mpho Mampuru, a seasoned Sales Associate, marries his background in Quantity Surveying and Construction Management with a customer-centric approach, bringing a unique and valuable perspective to the Avo team. With over eight years of industry experience, Mpho's expertise is the bedrock of his commitment to driving success and cultivating robust client relationships. His history of leadership in the non-profit sector further underscores his dedication to making a positive impact. Mpho's strategic insights and unwavering focus on client satisfaction position him as a driving force in Avo Vision's business development endeavors.