Dr Hlamalani (widely known as Hlami) Ngwenya is a Tsonga, South African born global citizen. Born of the late Reverend Ntlaweni Joshua Ngwenya and Mrs Karilah Aldah (Nee Ndlovu) Ngwenya, she is the last of 6 children. As a single mom raising 3 beautiful mixed-race kids (half Tsonga, half German), she has learned to be creative in her parenting.

Professionally, she holds a PhD in Sustainable Agriculture, she is an excellent facilitator for systemic change. She has done work in 50 countries across the globe. As she like to say, “You cannot travel the world like that and still remain the same.” This challenged her narrow perspective, changed her attitude and broadened her world view. It was through these rich experiences and her exceptional contribution that she was recognized by the President of the country, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, through the most prestigious national orders. She is a recipient of the National Order of the Baobab in Bronze, 2021 for her contribution in Sustainable Agriculture, education and community empowerment.